I think many people imagine being on the board of any organization and they picture a windowless meeting room with a big table, meetings with charts, and taking votes. And while my time with the Hoosier Chapter Sierra Club Executive Committee has had its share of meetings with votes and charts (though more often virtual), I’ve been able to do so many other interesting things, it would be a shame not to tell you!
I’ve been able to go out into our wonderful State Parks, either on official hikes or just with fellow Club members. When you hang out with folks in the Sierra Club, you never know what you might learn about the natural spaces you’re in. I’ve been able to attend local planning meetings and speak on behalf of our Chapter. I’ve met US Senators and town council members over issues from protecting forests to improving recycling. I’ve shared testimony to city councils, the Statehouse, and even the Environmental Protection Agency. I’ve stood up for strong coal ash controls and defended preserving wetlands and threatened species. I’ve gotten to work our table at festivals and meet the public, which can be pretty fun especially when the music is good. I have attended several conferences and learned about creative solutions to the climate crisis while connecting with professionals around the country. I’ve been to film screenings, concerts, and climate marches. I’ve camped in the woods and spent time around the fire with some of the finest advocates for nature in the country.
Together, this Chapter - along with the Sierra Club Beyond Coal team in Indiana - has brought our state out of its coal era and made numerous conservation areas that we take for granted today a permanent part of our landscape. There are still many more critical fights in our future.
Whether your feet are crossing dirt paths or the marble of the state legislature, you never know where your Sierra Club work will take you, but you’ll know it matters and it’s been a great hike!
Shannon Anderson
Executive Committee member and Legislative Committee Chair
Sierra Club Hoosier Chapter
If you're interested in running for the Hoosier Chapter Executive Committee for terms starting in 2025, you can find out more and apply here: Sierra Club Hoosier Chapter Executive Committee Application Form.