In Her Words: Three-Time ELB Member Jade Menchaca on the Power of Getting Involved

Hi friends,

My name is Jade Menchaca and I am a proud member of the Emerging Leaders Board! 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 program is lucky to be designed, implemented, and supported by the Oregon Environmental Council.

When someone joins the ELB, they’re making an 18-month commitment to serve alongside a cohort of fellow volunteers. During that tenure, ELB members will combine our passions and diverse areas of expertise to produce several creative projects that benefit our local environment. Our work is guided by OEC’s historic policy expertise, and uplifted by the organization’s deep ties to Oregon’s environmental movement.

I have loved my time serving on the ELB — so much so, I am returning for my third cohort! I have been an ELB member since the re-conception of the program back in 2022. It has been a pleasure to see the program evolve and be a part of the amazing work we’ve accomplished. This group brings new, young and diverse perspectives to OEC’s work, and we’re able to connect with new audiences to bring into the fold.

Especially in our current world, I lean on this work and these cohorts of like-minded advocates to keep me inspired, motivated and sane. I continue to support OEC because I know I am making a direct impact in the state where I was born and raised. With the federal government rolling back so much progress, the biggest impact we can make is at the state level, working in community alongside fellow environmental champions.

I love the work that OEC does, and the people who make it happen. I look forward to spending another 18 months participating in this meaningful work. They just can’t get rid of me! Be sure to check out the ELB page for bios of the new cohort members, and more about what we do.

Jade Menchaca

Jade Menchaca (she/her): Jade was born and raised in Beaverton, spent her undergrad years at the University of Oregon focusing on environmental and food studies, and has lived in Portland ever since. Currently, she is the Sustainability Coordinator for Portland Community College and focuses on outreach and education and institutionalizing sustainability.She has many years of experience coordinating programs and events for higher education students to enhance their sustainability, involvement on campus, and knowledge of environmental justice. She is passionate about community involvement, social inclusion, and environmental justice. She likes to spend her free time cooking, crafting, traveling, and trying new restaurants and bars.

Learn more about the ELB and how to get involved.

You can support the work of the Emerging Leaders Board and help cultivate the next generation of environmental champions when you support OEC. Donate today!

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