Candidate Statement
As a life-long Ohioan, I am so excited to be a candidate for Sierra Club Ohio's Executive Committee. My journey towards environmental advocacy began in Dayton, where I explored the beauty of the Miami Valley and developed a profound sense of stewardship. This led me to eventually graduate from Ohio University as an Outdoor Recreation and Education major. Then, as an outdoor educator in western states, I inspired others to appreciate and care for our natural world while actively breaking down barriers to outdoor recreation.
I found my way back to Ohio when I enrolled in law school at The Ohio State University. My transition from education to the legal field demonstrates my commitment to social justice. As a social justice attorney in Toledo advocating for low-income Ohioans, I can bring a unique perspective to the Sierra Club Ohio Executive Committee.
My passion for seeing Ohio thrive includes seeing sustainable infrastructures, preserving natural spaces, and having clean water, land, and air. My passion and expertise can serve to address environmental challenges and support Ohio communities. It has been an honor serving on the Steering Committee since June 2023 and I hope to continue supporting Sierra Club Ohio as an Executive Committee member.
Candidate Q+A
- Why are you interested in being a part of the Ohio Chapter Executive Committee?
My interest in being a member of the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Executive Committee stems from my pride in being an Ohioan and from my passion for protecting our natural spaces, combating climate change, and seeking environmental justice.
- What is your vision for a successful Ohio chapter?
My vision for a successful Ohio Chapter of the Sierra Club is a Chapter that engages with all areas and populations in Ohio and serves as a resource for members to be connected to nature and advocacy tools.
- What special skills and relevant experience do you bring to the Executive Committee?
My environmental advocacy has ranged from leading overnight canoe trips to clerkships at public interest environmental law firms. In these roles I have gained knowledge and leadership, communication, and organizational skills that would strengthen my role on the Executive Committee and serve Sierra Club Ohio.
- A core priority for Sierra Club is centering equity, justice and inclusion in all of its work. What is your experience contributing to the advancement of these values?
Equity, justice, and inclusion are values I hold dear, and they were a driving force in my decision to go to law school. I try to advance them every day in my current work. Being an attorney comes with a high level of power in our society, I view it as my responsibility to yield that power in a way that advances these values; that is why I work at a public interest law firm that provides pro bono representation.