Marcy – who recently received her A.S. in Liberal Arts from Consumnes River College (CRC) - originally went back to school to study a subject that she had always had a knack for: plants. Known in her neighborhood of Galt for having a green thumb, Marcy decided to pursue an associate’s degree in horticulture after years of owning a small business and raising a family. Though Marcy switched her major after a few semesters, her passion for the earth continued to flourish and grew into a love for environmental justice and helping others understand the steps they can take to positively impact the planet.
On this passion for environmental justice, Marcy said, “I hope to make a difference for my kids, grandkids, as well as for the earth.”
Professor Debra Sharkey, who teaches environmental studies and geography at CRC, informed Marcy about the California Climate Investments student ambassador program, to which she then applied and was accepted, for the spring 2019 semester. Marcy was interested in the program because to her, “it sounded like something where I could make a difference in my community.”
Through the semester-long volunteer experience, Marcy had the opportunity to learn about California Climate Investments’ various environmental efforts and share knowledge of programs with her fellow students, CRC faculty and community members in her neighborhood of Galt. At her college’s Earth Day celebration, Marcy tabled on campus and engaged with students and staff on California Climate Investments and its environmental impact. On a separate occasion, she had the chance to visit with a previous horticulture professor and give a class presentation about California Climate Investments. These outreach activities cemented Marcy’s passion for environmental outreach and allowed her to become more comfortable with public speaking.
The student ambassador program not only gave Marcy the opportunity to inform others about a subject that she is very passionate about, it also allowed her to connect with her school’s community. Consequently, she feels that the student ambassador program would be beneficial for students looking for volunteer experience and not just those studying environmental issues.
Marcy’s great passion for environmental justice is evident and she plans to continue informing her community about California Climate Investments well after her time as an ambassador concludes. Marcy will be attending CSU Sacramento in the fall of 2019 and plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree in environmental justice.