By Ashley Lodato
Part-time Pine Forest resident (and daughter of valley residents Kurt and Susan Snover) Amy Snover recently returned from a trip to the White House, where she was one of eight people being nationally recognized as a “Champion of Change for Climate Education and Literacy.” The White House’s “Champions of Change” program is built on the belief that “all across the country, ordinary Americans are doing extraordinary things in their communities,” and each week a group of such individuals is honored at the White House. The eight Champions of Change for Climate Education and Literacy were selected from a vast pool of nominees that includes educators, students, business leaders, scientists, and place-based leaders (such as zoo, aquarium, and museum staff).
Amy Snover was recognized by the White House for her work on climate education and literacy.
Amy, who is the director of the Climate Impacts Group and a professor at the University of Washington, was given the award based on her work in the fields of climate science and communication in the Northwest. Through Amy’s work she assembles, interprets, translates, and facilitates understanding about climate risks facing the people, communities, and ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest.
Amy says that the eight honorees shared their stories of what they do and why, and how they measure success in front of an audience of about 150 invited guests, and they participated in discussions about climate education and literacy efforts with some of President Obama’s staff, including the president’s science adviser, John Holdren, as well as assistant to the president Megan Smith. They also got to meet EPA administrator Gena McCarthy. (“Angela Merkel was in town,” says Amy, explaining the absence of Obama himself from the meetings.)
Amy says that she really enjoyed the event, noting “I was especially thrilled for the recognition that climate education is not just about inspiring the next generation, but — just as importantly — about ensuring that this generation of decision makers, resource managers and business people grasps the climate change challenge and is equipped to seek and implement solutions.” She continues, “I’m still energized by the creativity and optimism of my fellow ‘champions,’ and the ways that they — as individuals — have found a way to make a positive difference in the world that we all share.”
Thanks for representing the interests of the Northwest (and the planet), Amy! Amy and the seven other Champions have been invited to write blog posts for the White House, so keep a look out at whitehouse.gov/champions.
