Dr. Goodson joined the Alabama Sierra Club executive committee earlier this year, but she's been committed to protecting Alabama's waterways for many years. Using scientific skills to serve the community by educating the public and influencing public policy has always been the professional goal of Dr. Kenya L. Goodson. Kenya is a native of West End Tuscaloosa, living in close proximity to the Black Warrior River. She has nine years of experience in wastewater and stormwater quality and environmental regulation. Kenya has worked for the State of Alabama as a Public Health Environmentalist, inspecting onsite sewage disposal systems in Tuscaloosa County. Her work in the rural community of Tuscaloosa inspired her to pursue a career in environmental engineering that focused on science policy and developing solutions to systemic concerns in environmental health.
What are your specific environmental interests and/or concerns? When I first decided to go into the environmental field, I did not have any specific areas of interest or expertise. After completing my Master's degree, I worked for the Alabama Department of Public Health in Tuscaloosa County's Sanitation Department. From my experience, I learned a lot about environmental regulations and the lack of resources for adequate enforcement. I also learned about the lack of sanitation infrastructure in the rural community. From my work experience and my education, I developed an interest around environmental policy particularly with water quality and water protection. I also have an interest in environmental health, environmental justice, and climate change which developed later in my career.
What is it about the Sierra Club that makes you willing to give of your time and energy? I've known about the Sierra Club since completing my PhD, but I didn't not see myself in it initially. I was invited to an Alabama Sierra Club meeting by text and I am still not sure how I got on a text message. I learned about the initiatives in place for the state of Alabama such as the Beyond Coal campaign and wanted to be a part.
How are you helping Alabama explore, enjoy, and protect the environment? I serve on the Board of Directors for Black Warrior Riverkeeper and the Cahaba River Society. Our interest is primarily in the protection of our rivers and the watersheds.
What is one of your favorite memories associated with being outside in nature? As a African-American woman who grew up in impoverished conditions, I did not have exposure to the river or nature until I was an adult. I learned to love the river when I joined the organizations and I love sitting by the Black Warrior after a jog on the Riverwalk.
What is one action you would like to see more of from the Sierra Club Alabama Chapter? More people should be a part of the Sierra Club. They aren't very visible unless you are already exposed to the environmental area.
What's one of your favorite places to explore? What makes it special? The Black Warrior River, because it is an important part of our community in Tuscaloosa.