Colleen Smiley

fossil fuels, climate change, ecosystem services, science, academic research, facilitating, mentoring, public speaking, networking, building relationships, pipelines, Project Management, Collaboration Habitat restoration, campus sustainability, offshore wind, renewable energy, environmental education, sustainable planning

Environmentalism and Sustainability are no longer buzz words they encompass the here and now.

Everyone can participate, and every positive action promotes another.  It is our job to not only be the leaders but the role models.
I am dedicated to contributing to a sustainable future for our planet one day at a time.
I grew up on the 3 “R’s” when they were suggestions!
Today, we must as a society Reduce consumption, waste and pollution. Reuse what we have and Recycle everything we can!
We must stop asking should I Conserve energy, water, and other natural resources, but how can I incorporate these values into my everyday world.  
It’s not should I buy environmentally friendly products, but where can I buy or make them!
Education is the key: Educating businesses, schools, families and friends.
Together we can make a difference…
I am committed to a role of environmental, sustainable and socially responsible leadership in all facets of our lives. Changing the world one day at a time with a knowledge, a positive voice and a smile!

Playing pirates in any wooded area with my grandchildren. We also plant pizza and taco gardens. Kayaking anywhere. Walking along any shore and enjoying life.

Discovering new places. Recently I had the opportunity to explore Alaska. I loved the glaciers and the wildlife. I was also given a private tour of a hydroponic garden that feeds a resort, and a amazing geothermal system

any way I can! I love to feel the wind on my face

I am driven to make a difference in the world because no matter how much we develop technologies they can never correct the damage done to the earth. Many early cultures lead a sustainable life style in many ways, I believe that we must not only look to the future for the answers but to look back to see what worked and why.

My greatest skill is my ability to organize, and motivate others, never asking more than what I am willing to do myself. Always remembering to say please and thank you. It sounds so simple but people need to know that they are appreciated.

Education, my proudest moment lead me back to college. As a long term sub at a local elementary school I taught science for an entire year. I was asked to be the student council adviser, from a small group of 10 to 232 student’s. Our motto was “service above self”. The students worked to reduce consumption, waste and pollution, they helped educate other students as well as faculty and staff. They proved regardless of your position in life that together we can make a difference.

My community’s roots are as deep as this country. Our downtown is reminiscent of a by gone era. The buildings are old with deep lines like a grand old dame, and like any old dame it’s going to need a face lift soon. I would love to see the structures keep their integrity but become sustainable and green, a bench mark for other historic towns.