Ara Vickers: Meet the New ELB!

Hello friends,

People are more receptive to tackling climate change when they are given actionable, positive climate news, rather than through threats of inaction. If you’re like me, and are entrenched in climate change research, then framing climate change and other environmental disasters in an optimistic context sounds at best challenging and at worst absurd. After all, the earth is on fire and we need to act! Yet, most people respond defensively when they receive negative climate change information. Of course, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t share critical climate change information or be complicit climate optimists. Rather, it highlights how powerful stories about innovative and engaging climate work can be.

Fortunately, I have some powerful, optimistic climate news to share: the next Emerging Leaders Board has begun and we are already getting started on exciting environmental initiatives within Oregon! The Emerging Leaders Board, or ELB, is composed of young professional changemakers who are dedicated to environmental protection and advocacy in the State of Oregon. The ELB is lucky to be designed, implemented, and supported by Oregon Environmental Council. During our 18- month tenure, ELB members will combine our passions and diverse expertises to produce several creative projects that benefit our local environment. We are fortunate to be uplifted by OEC’s historic policy expertise on all-things Oregon environment, and supported through the diligent and dedicated work of Jacqui Treiger and Janell Brittain.

As a dedicated climate optimist (and as a young person), I could think of no better way to champion my optimism and resilience than to join the ELB. I am already learning from other young leaders who bring a like-minded focus on empathy and passion to the problems that their communities experience. It is an honor to be a part of this groundbreaking, yet fun, work with so many talented young leaders. I cannot wait to get started.

Stay tuned for exciting updates on the ELB’s collective and individual work to build a more resilient Oregon environment. Learn more about the ELB members by reading their bios here.

Have a great day,

Ara Vickers, ELB Member

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