30
Coastal Advocates
Interns

since 2015

22
Legal & Policy
Interns

since 2017

5
Communication Interns

since 2023

Adrienne Tosaris
legal and Policy Intern
January 2024 - present

Adrienne is a student at the University of Minnesota Law. She has previously worked for the Environmental Law Foundation (ELF) in Oakland and plans to pursue a career in environmental law. Originating from Marin County, Adrienne is dedicated to water law and safeguarding California's coastlines. Prior to law school, Adrienne earned a B.A. in English with a Minor in Education from UC Santa Barbara. Beyond her academic pursuits, she finds joy in surfing, yoga, cooking, and hiking.

“Growing up in Marin, surrounded by nature's beauty, I developed a strong belief in the power of legal advocacy for environmental preservation. In my work, I aim to be a practical voice for our planet, addressing each case with a commitment to justice and compassion. The urgency of conservation is real, and I see it as my duty to contribute to a sustainable future through the lens of law, drawing inspiration from my roots in Marin.”

Program Area: Climate & Biodiversy
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

Will Galer
Communications Intern
January 2024 - present

Will is a junior at the University of Southern California majoring in Environmental Studies with a minor in Economics. His academic pursuits are fueled by a deep interest in sustainability and the connection between environmental and economic factors. Hailing from Southern California, Will's commitment to environmental causes grew through experiences like surfing and exploring the beautiful Santa Monica mountains.

"Living 15 minutes from Southern California's stunning beaches, my childhood was shaped by a profound connection to the coastline. As I matured, this connection evolved into a sincere appreciation for the environment. Exploring the scenic Santa Monica mountains on hikes deepened my passion for environmental advocacy. The opportunity to work as a communications intern at EAC is truly exhilarating, providing me with a platform to actively educate others about crucial environmental issues and empower them to contribute to preserving our environment."

Program Area: Social Media Communications
Advisor: Grace Milstein, Communications Associate

Christopher Mouawad
legislative Fellow
May 2023 - present

Christopher is a student at UC Davis School of Law. He would like to pursue a career in environmental law, specifically water law. He is interested in exploring how environmental protection can co-exist with development. Prior to law school, Christopher received a B.A. Political Science-Public Service and History at UC Davis, where he developed an appreciation for Northern California's mountains and coasts. He enjoys swimming, road trips, and hiking. Chris first joined us as a Legal & Policy Intern in May 2023; in January 2024, he continued his work with us as our inaugural Legislative Fellow.

“Being part of EAC's advocacy as a Legal and policy intern is exciting because I would like to pursue a career in environmental law where I can help protect California's unique, biodiverse ecosystem for the health and enjoyment of all Californians. My hope is to gain experience analyzing legislation and being able to advocate for legislative action in both a formal setting and a community setting. I have been impressed with EAC's involvement in the local community, engagement with the public, and genuine interest in working with many different stakeholders to protect West Marin's beautiful environment.”

Program Area: Lands, Water, Biodiversity, & Climate Work
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

Jessica Kamman
Coastal Advocate
May 2023 - present

Jessie is a sophomore at the University of Hawaii Manoa pursuing a B.S. in Marine Biology. She wants to pursue a career in research and conservation of large fish, shark, and ray species. Her passion for the environment and ocean stems from her time exploring, hiking, and spending time out in West Marin when she was younger. When she's not at the beach, she's hiking, watercoloring, or reading.

“I grew up inspired by West Marin and Point Reyes, and I am excited to share that passion and encourage it in others with hopes to protect and preserve some of my favorite places.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Karura Njoroge
legal & policy Intern
October - December 2023

Prior Internship with EAC September - December 2022

Karura is a recent graduate of the University of California, Davis, with bachelor's degrees in Environmental Policy and Philosophy and a minor in Economics. During her 4th year at the University of California, Davis, Karura interned with the Environmental Action Committee as a legal and policy intern to draft office memoranda, research oceanic issues, and oversee regulatory projects. Karura has returned to the Environmental Action Committee as a legal and policy intern to continue to grow her knowledge of environmental issues and the legal process and support the Environmental Action Committee as it does important work in these domains.

Karura’s work with EAC centers around the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network advocacy and protecting public lands.

“During my senior year at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), I was a legal and policy intern for the Environmental Action Committee (EAC) of West Marin. After I graduated from UC Davis, I rejoined EAC as a legal and policy intern. During my continuation, I continued to support EAC in its mission to preserve biodiversity within Marin County by contributing to the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network advocacy and working to protect public lands. Thank you, EAC, for the opportunity to continue to grow my knowledge of environmental issues and the legal process.”

Program Area: Climate, Water, & Land
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

Sophia Leon
Communications Intern
August - December 2023

Sophia is a University of Southern California senior pursuing a B.S. in environmental studies. She has a passion for many environmental concerns, especially those regarding the ocean. She grew up in beautiful Southern California and spent many summers in the gorgeous city of Monterey, where her love for the ocean and the environment began.

“I have developed a love for environmental advocacy and educating others about how they could help positively impact our environment. I am beyond excited to work with the EAC as a communications intern this fall. From a young age, I have had a passion for the ocean and a love for educating the public on environmental issues, but I have rarely had the opportunity to do it on a large scale and outside of my academic realm, which is why I am proud to be a part of the EAC mission.”

Program Area: Social Media Communications
Advisor: Grace Milstein, Communications Associate

Ben Hodgson
Coastal Advocate
May - September 2023

Ben will be a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of California Davis, majoring in Environmental Policy Analysis and planning. Growing up in the North Bay, Ben spent his early years enjoying the forests and beaches of West Marin. Now with the EAC team, he looks forward to advocating for the natural spaces where he spent his childhood. In his free time, Ben likes to hike, do nature photography, and kayak!

“I'm excited to intern with EAC to protect the spaces that fostered my love of the outdoors as a kid! I hope that my work with EAC will help others develop an appreciation for nature in West Marin like I did.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Catelyn Olrich
Coastal Advocate
May - August 2023

Cate is a rising senior at Gonzaga University, majoring in Environmental Studies, with minors in sustainable business, sociology, and public relations. This area of interest was inspired by growing up amidst the beauty of Marin, especially along the coastal environments of West Marin. She is excited to protect those ecosystems closest to her heart this summer while continuously learning and gaining hands-on experience in conservation efforts. On her own time, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, and engaging with her community.

“I am excited to intern for EAC to learn more about what makes the West Marin ecosystems unique. I also appreciate the small but mighty team and the care that the organization takes in advocating for our coast. I look forward to being a part of a local approach to larger environmental issues.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Carston Haffner
legal and policy Intern
May - AUGUST 2023

Carston is a third-year law student at the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings). His interest in environmental law and policy was sparked while earning his undergraduate degree in biology. He is passionate about finding solutions to the problems human activity may pose to our natural environments. The great outdoors has always been a source of joy and inspiration for Carston, and he enjoys exploring nature while hiking or backpacking.

“What drove me to attend law school was a desire to have a role in protecting our natural environment. Being able to have a hand in EAC's work is a great way for me to achieve my own goals while also furthering the mission of EAC.”

Program Area: Biodiversity & Waters Work
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

LILAH CAPP
communications Intern
January - APRIL 2023

Lilah is a University of Southern California senior pursuing a B.S. in Environmental Studies with a minor in Themed Entertainment. She wants to pursue a career in environmental communication and education. Lilah’s work at EAC focuses on social media and communication for the Leave No Trace campaign and the current beaver conservation project. Lilah has fond memories growing up visiting museums and aquariums in the Bay Area, and she wants to find creative and entertaining ways to cultivate public appreciation for California’s many beautiful ecosystems. Outside of school, she spends her time learning new creative skills like baking and knitting. She also likes to spend time outdoors by volunteering at local community gardens.

“I am very excited and grateful to be a communication intern for EAC so that I can apply what I’ve learned about environmental issues throughout my college career in the real world and help spread awareness about ecosystem health in West Marin.”

Program Area: Visitor Stewardship & Beavers
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Past Executive Director

MIRANDA GLISSON
legal & policy Intern
January - may 2023

Miranda is a Senior at the University of California Davis studying Political Science with a minor in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning. She has applied to start law school in Fall 2023 to pursue a career in environmental and natural resource law. In her free time, Miranda likes to ride horses, lift at her local gym, and hike with her border collie Terra. Miranda’s work with EAC will include a focus on biodiversity and migratory corridors, protecting public lands, and supporting coastal climate resilience. She is also interested in gaining experience in the connection between the community and how those relationships impact EAC’s decisions for advocacy and policy support.

“My experience as a legal and policy intern at the EAC of West Marin was incredibly positive. This was by far the best internship I have been a part of. I gained invaluable exposure to policymaking, advocacy, environmental law, and ongoing projects to help California achieve its ambitious environmental goals. The internship helped solidify my career goals and showed me multiple different fulfilling careers that are attainable in environmental protection.”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

will hunt
communications intern
january - may 2023

Will is a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Southern California who will be graduating with an Environmental Studies degree in May. He has always appreciated being outside in nature, but his passion for the biological and environmental sciences came from his high school APES teacher Mr. Northcut. Will is excited to use his communications experience and love for conservation to help EAC with its work protecting West Marin’s natural wonder for its citizens. During its rollout, Will is designing and building the new website for EAC’s Western Monarch Movement.

“I’m super excited for the opportunity to work with the EAC, helping them in their fight to save the Western Monarch Butterfly. Living in southern California I have only been able to visit the northern coast a few times, but I fell in love with it immediately. I want to keep that amazing ecosystem alive and well for everyone to experience, and I know Monarchs are an important part of that puzzle. I also know that working with such a dedicated team of individuals will help me build leadership and communication skills that will last a lifetime!”

Program Area: Marin’s Monarch Movement
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Past Executive Director

Rachel graduated from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA in May 2021 with a BA in Political Science and a biology minor. She wants to pursue a career in environmental policy and also works part-time for the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition. Rachel grew up in Marin County and is excited to help protect and preserve its natural spaces. Rachel’s work with EAC focused on our land and waters work including our Healthy Tomales Bay and Sustainable Communities campaigns.

“I am so glad that I had the opportunity to intern for the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin. I learned so much about conserving our waters and lands and got to assist with State efforts to combat and prepare for climate change. This internship has helped me gain valuable experience for my future career.”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Executive Director

Julian is a sophomore at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he is pursuing a B.S. in Environmental Management & Protection and double minoring in GIS and Indigenous Studies in Natural Resources. As a Fairfax native, Julian enjoys distance running, making pottery, a good book, and a solid NW swell.

His work with EAC involved conducting and facilitating the MPA Watch community science program, education and outreach, data management, and more. He subscribes to the philosophy that real, large-scale change stems from local activism, and volunteers for the HelpBerkeley Meal Service and Marin Community Fridges on weekends.

He looks forward to a meaningful career that combines his passions for climate sciences, environmental policy, spatial analysis, natural resources conservation and social justice.

"During my summer internship with EAC, I gained valuable skills in local surveying, data entry, and mapping, became comfortable discussing all-things-MPAs, and developed an even deeper appreciation for (and responsibility to protect) California’s coastal ecosystems. The relationships I was fortunate enough to build with staff, my fellow interns, volunteers, and community members are inspiring and meaningful. My teammates truly supported me in building a strong foundation for my future as an environmental advocate, and introduced me to the work it takes to be a powerful steward for our coasts, lands, ecosystems, and planet. Thank you EAC for an outstanding summer experience!"

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Madison is a second-year law student at Golden Gate University where she writes for the Environmental Law Journal and recently completed the Environmental Law and Justice Clinic. Her passion for protecting the environment stems from her love of animals and her desire to preserve their natural habitat. Prior to law school, Madison graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a B.A. in History. When she's not at school or interning, Madison is usually outside with her four dogs and tortoise. Madison’s work with EAC focused on lands, climate, and waters including work on Conserving Coastal Biodiversity.

“My internship at EAC of West Marin was both educational and inspiring. Being able to expand my knowledge of the environmental issues that impact my state was a very rewarding experience. I enjoyed the challenging projects I was assigned and feel like I have found my niche in the environmental law sector.”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Grace Milstein
Coastal Advocate COMMUNICATIONS INTERN
May 2020 - MAY 2022

Grace’s internship is focused on communications within coastal advocacy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities. At the time she was a senior at the University of Southern California, majoring in Environmental Studies with an emphasis on ocean conservation. She is no a full time with EAC as our Communication Associate.

“I love working with the EAC team! I started out as a Coastal Advocate intern, where I learned more about West Marin’s unique ecosystems and how to make tangible changes for our environment. Through my mentorship, I transitioned to being a part-time employee as a Communication Associate. Through this position, I am able to share our mission with the broader public and encourage them to take action. This work fuels my soul and gives me satisfaction that I am contributing to an environmental mission that will leave a lasting impact on West Marin and California, while also gaining valuable job experience and leadership skills.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship and Communications
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director

Briana Muschi
Coastal Advocate Intern
September 2021 - June 2022

Briana is currently a senior attending San Rafael High School. Her internship is focused on Marin MPA Watch, conducting surveys along the Marine Protected areas of Marin and entering surveys into the MPA Watch statewide portal. Growing up here, Briana feels it is most important to educate yourself as much as possible about our local environment and work to preserve it. Her interest in nature comes from being raised in such a bio-diverse area. She spends time exploring a variety of places from marshes in her town to the beaches that sit along the West Marin coast.

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Rachel is a sophomore at Colgate University where she is hoping to major in Biology and double minor in Global Public & Environmental Health and Economics. She wants to pursue a career that combines global health and environmental conservation, especially relating to the world's oceans and coasts. She enjoys spending her time outside, whether that be in the mountains or on the coast and is excited to spend her summer protecting and learning more about Marin's ocean environment.

“I really enjoyed spending my summer interning with the West Marin Environmental Action Committee. All the staff were exceptionally friendly and welcoming. I think that the best part about the internship was the opportunity to choose and complete a capstone project. This allowed me to really delve into an issue and project I cared a lot about, and make visible progress toward a goal.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Allison is pursuing environmental law at Berkeley Law School and comes to the EAC with a passion for environmental science, policy, and regulation. Allison is a Board Member for Ecology Law Quarterly and a leader of Environmental Conservation Outreach, a student-led pro bono program.

Prior to law school, Allison studied Applied Animal Biology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada as a Loran Scholar. Throughout her undergraduate degree, Allison held policy-related internships with the Canadian Wildlife Federation and the UN Environment – World Conservation Monitoring Centre. Following her graduation, she worked as an Environmental Consultant and Wildlife Biologist ensuring that one of the largest carbon capture initiatives in North America was compliant with environmental laws and regulations. Allison hopes to use her law degree to work at the intersection between science, law, and policy – specifically as it pertains to wildlife habitat and biodiversity. Outside of school, Allison enjoys ultra-endurance athletics and woodworking. Allison’s work with EAC focused on our Healthy Tomales Bay campaign, 30x30, and Safeguarding our Coast and Ocean.

Continued Work with EAC - She continued to work with EAC through Berkeley Law’s ECO program beginning in the fall of 2022, leading students with work on a forthcoming community water guide. ECO’s mission is to involve students in environmental law to address environmental injustices, preserve magnificent places and wildlife, and combat climate change. ECO achieves this through undertaking pro bono research and writing projects that have real impacts.

“EAC is a small, but mighty organization.  The team is incredibly passionate and in tune with the threats and opportunities facing West Marin. I am grateful to have joined the vibrant team as a Legal and Policy Intern. I learned a tremendous amount, made meaningful contributions to EAC’s mission, and had fun doing it! Thank you for such a wonderful internship experience and for all that you do to keep West Marin wild.” 

lauren richards
legal & policy Intern
May - august 2022

Lauren is a third-year law student at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Her interest in environmental law and policy started back in college when she received her undergraduate degree in environmental biology. The earth's natural systems are intriguing to her, and she is excited to take her science background and legal training to help benefit the people and ecosystems of West Marin. She hopes to use her skills to protect the ecosystems of West Marin and to help the residents as well. Lauren’s work with EAC focused on our Planning for the Future and Protecting Public Lands campaigns.

“Working with EAC was an awesome experience! I got to connect with the Bay Area and specifically Marin while advocating for the environment. From the beach cleanups to the legal research and every assignment in between, I have had the most interactive and hands-on experience yet. Thank you!”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Carolina Auerbach
Coastal advocate Intern
September 2020 - may 2021

Carolina’s internship is focused on coastal advocacy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities. She is currently taking a gap year and will start as a freshman at Claremont McKenna College with a intended major of Environmental Analysis next fall.

Before moving to Marin two years ago, Carolina lived in Massachusetts and spent most of her time in the mountains. Since moving out West, she has been able to spend more time in and around the ocean surfing, swimming, and diving. Her love for all things related to the water has pushed her to pursue an environmentally conscious life. In her free time, when she’s not in the water, she loves going on hikes and walks to clean up beaches and hiking trails all over Marin.

“I am incredibly grateful and excited to be working alongside driven people who share the same passion for the environment as me. I look forward to gaining experience and knowledge that will allow me to further pursue a future in the environmental field.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Kate Carpenter
COASTAL ADVOCATE INTERN
MAY - September 2021

Kate Carpenter is a Coastal Advocate intern working to improve MPA's with the likes of the MPA Watch Program and more. She is a senior environmental science major with a minor in civic communication and media at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. She wants to pursue a career in non-profits and grassroots organizations that benefit the community and environment. Kate is excited to give back to the place she grew up in and learn more about local conservation.

"I was immediately interested in applying for this internship after learning about EAC's impact and message for coastal and environmental conservation and the different ways they inspire community involvement and education. I am so excited to be working this summer!"

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Ryan Garroway MyerS
Legal & Policy InTERN
May - JULY 2021

Born and raised in Marin, Ryan looks forward to working to protect West Marin. Ryan has just completed his second year at Golden Gate University School of Law, where he is focusing his studies on environmental law and justice.

Ryan focused on EAC’s waters work including our Safeguarding Our Coast and Ocean program by advocating for Healthy Tomales Bay and our continued Opposition to Offshore Oil.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work to give back to my community. Whether attending overnight summer camps in Point Reyes as a kid, hiking the hills and forests of West Marin, or simply spending time at the beaches, West Marin has helped shape me. I hope to be able to work to ensure that others have the same opportunities that I was able to have.“

Program Area: Waters & Climate Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Lauren Goetz
Coastal Advocate InterN
May - August 2021

Lauren's internship is focused on protecting the coastal environments of West Marin. She is a rising senior at the University of California, Santa Barbara studying Psychological and Brain Sciences and minoring in Earth Science. She is interested in pursuing a career in habitat conservation or climate change mitigation. Her love of nature comes from growing up amongst the redwoods of Mt. Tam and spending all of her free time exploring the natural beauty of Marin. In her free time you can find her being active in the outdoors, either trail running, hiking, surfing or swimming.

“I'm thrilled to be working with the EAC team to preserve some of the local Marin habitats that I love the most. I feel incredibly lucky to have this experience working alongside other interns to teach the community and assist in data collection and analysis of coastal areas. The mountains, beaches and forests of Marin County have a special place in my heart and I intend to do all that I can in this role to protect these wonderful places.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

Ariel Orr
Legal & Policy Intern
January - may 2021

Ariel's internship is focused on policy analysis and advocacy, and she will be helping us with our climate and biodiversity work primarily. Ariel is currently pursuing her Master in Public Policy degree with a concentration on environmental policy from Oregon State University. She is interested in wildlife and habitat conservation, climate change mitigation, reducing pollution, and addressing environmental injustice. She is excited to be working with EAC this spring and helping to advance its meaningful work in West Marin. Ariel's internship focused on policy analysis and advocacy, and she helped us with our climate and biodiversity work primarily. Ariel’s capstone project which she was able to use for her public policy Master’s thesis was a Climate Resilience Scorecard for Marin County.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to work with EAC’s talented staff on a variety of issues impacting West Marin. I’ve learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed my internship!”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

katherine pond
Legal & Policy Intern
January - may 2021

Katherine's internship is focused on legal and policy research, and she will be helping us with many of our program areas. Katherine is a second-year law student at Santa Clara University, where she serves on the board of the Environmental Law Society. Prior to law school, she graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a B.A. in Psychology and minors in Biology and Chinese Studies. She spent the following years working in Yellowstone National Park and in the Sonoma County wine industry. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, gardening, and playing with her dogs, Towser and Fenway. Katherine's internship focused on law and policy analysis and advocacy, and she helped us with our land use and climate work primarily. Katherine completed a project related to Agricultural Land Preservation & Environmental Protection, which also tied into her legal coursework.

"Working with EAC provided a broad introduction to environmental advocacy, and I am very grateful for that experience. The many creative ways that EAC protects the invaluable lands, biodiversity, and waters of West Marin (and beyond) inspired me. I especially loved witnessing EAC's close working relationship with a nationwide nonprofit network and the West Marin community. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from this team of inspirational, kind, and tireless individuals."

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Isaac Serratos
Legal & Policy Intern
May - AUGUST 2021

Isaac is a third-year law student at UC Hastings, where he serves as Executive Acquisitions Editor for the Hastings Environmental Law Journal. He is interested in equitable housing regulations and protecting biodiversity. Prior to law school, he graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a B.A. in Environmental Studies and minors in Sustainability Studies and Legal Studies. In his free time he enjoys swimming, playing video games, and reading.

“As a law student, this internship challenged me to exit my comfort zone of statutes and case law. Through the experience, I was able to look through and become comfortable with scientific and local planning documents. The internship also demonstrated the importance of having local environmental organizations dedicated to addressing local issues.”

Isaac focused mainly on EAC’s lands, biodiversity, and climate work including our program areas of Safeguarding Coastal Biodiversity and Advocating for Environmentally Sustainable Communities addressing the threats of the Climate Crisis.

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Dhalma Suarez
Coastal Advocate
May - September 2021

Dhalma’s internship will be focused on coastal protection, specifically on our Marin MPA Watch program. She is a student at the College of Marin majoring in Geography and Environmental Studies. She will be transferring to Sonoma State in the spring of 2022 to complete her Bachelor's Degree. She looks forward to gaining valuable experience and the necessary skills to engage with community members, and hopes to use any knowledge gained to bring environmental education to underserved communities in the future.

“In 2017, I got a call from my brother, in tears after his apartment had burned down in the Tubbs Fire and that is when I realized the severity of our climate crisis. However, nobody within my community was having the necessary conversations regarding climate change and I saw the need to change that. I joined EAC to learn how to communicate important information to my community, learn more about the environmental field, and gain the skills necessary to gather, analyze, and educate others about the impact climate change has on our daily lives.”

Program Area: Coastal Community Science & Stewardship
Advisor: Leslie Adler-Ivanbrook, Program Director

emma Cervantes
Legal & Policy Intern
May - August 2020

Emma’s internship focused on conservation advocacy and policy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities. She is an incoming second-year student at the University of San Francisco School of Law. She is passionate about connecting society to the natural world, learning how to best protect and preserve our unique California ecosystems, and supporting food and environmental justice efforts in her community. Prior to law school, she received her B.A. from the University of California, Santa Cruz, with a double major in Politics and Environmental Studies. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she served as a FoodCorps AmeriCorps service member, educating elementary school students through experiential garden-based science and nutrition classes in Watsonville, CA. She engaged actively in healthful food access during her AmeriCorps term, distributing over 1,500 pounds of produce each week to her elementary school sites through a partnership with the Watsonville food bank. In her free time, she enjoys running, hiking, and exploring the California coastline.

“I appreciated the opportunity to work with a local, grassroots environmental advocacy non-profit that is deeply valued within the community. Even with the shift to a remote platform for all staff as a result of the pandemic, EAC staff still made it a point to find unique ways for us all to connect with one another…. I had the opportunity to draft comment letters to state legislators, develop background research to support EAC’s climate change adaptation policy, review Coastal Development Permits and ensure aquaculture compliance… and attend a wide variety of meetings…with local stakeholders. I am incredibly grateful that my first legal internship was so fun and engaging!"

Where is she now? Emma is currently a California Sea Grant Fellow with the California State Lands Commission (2023).

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Sophie is a returning Coastal Advocate intern focused on coastal advocacy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities. Her internship will focus on Marin Marine Protected Area (MPA) Watch program by participating in projects that further conservation efforts in the West Marin area.

Sophie is an incoming junior at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, pursuing an undergraduate degree in Environmental Management and Protection. Her area of interest was largely influenced by the extensive natural land that surrounds her home in Fairfax, inspiring her to participate in its conservation with the EAC.

At Cal Poly, Sophie works at the Leaning Pine Arboretum doing landscape maintenance, as part of the Horticulture Department on campus. She is also in collaboration with the Center for Sustainability, helping with the potential development of a Sustainable Agriculture major. Sophie also enjoys music, cooking, walking, and spending quality time with friends and family.

“The EAC does an amazing job at connecting the Marin community with nature and science, something that I believe some organizations may struggle with. The Marin MPA Watch program is a platform for significant conservation efforts that are so important for the long term health of the oceans, something that I am proud to participate in.”

Program Area: MPA Watch
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director

Patrick’s internship focused on climate and fire policy to protect and restore West Marin’s coastal resources and public lands. Having grown up in the redwoods of Mt. Tamalpais, he spent his childhood running, hiking, biking, and exploring the beauty of Marin — motivating him to become involved in its protection and conservation.

Patrick just finished his third year at UC Berkeley, where he studies Environmental Economics and Policy with an emphasis on energy and resources. He is especially interested in renewable energy, fire ecology, and climate science, and hopes to somehow work in advancing climate change mitigation after he graduates. In his free time, Patrick enjoys playing soccer, drawing, fishing, camping, and playing music with his friends.

“I’m so excited and grateful to be working with EAC and to have the opportunity to continue to learn about the world of environmental science and policy.”

Program Area: Climate and Fire Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

Silvana’s internship is focused on coastal advocacy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities. Born and raised in Berkeley, Silvana has been visiting beautiful West Marin since she was three years old, and has been passionate about taking care of the environment for just as long! Growing up, she spent weekends planting native species in local parks and raising swallowtail butterflies and pacific chorus frogs in her home to combat local population loss. Currently, she is a rising sophomore at the University of Chicago where she plans to study Environmental and Urban Studies and Biology.

Before beginning school at University of Chicago, Silvana took a gap year to explore her environmental interests. She spent the fall volunteering at Jatun Sacha Biological Reserve in Ecuador learning about biodiversity and sustainable living practices. During the summer she travelled to the Tatra Mountains in Poland, encouraging international visitors to engage thoughtfully with the landscape. In her free time, Silvana dances, cooks, and plays with her dog, Barnaby.

"I’m very grateful to be working with EAC, and can’t wait to learn more about California’s coastal resources and to contribute to their protection and conservation.”

Program Area: Marin MPA Watch
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director

NIKLAS ALEXANDER UGALDE RECARTE
CLIMATE ADVOCATE INTERN
MAY – AUGUST 2020

Born and raised in Germany, Niklas moved to Marin County as an Au Pair in 2017. He completed his Associate’s Degree from the College of Marin and will be transferring to Pitzer College in the fall of 2020 to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Analysis.

During his time at the College of Marin, he has been an environmental leader, both as President of the Environmental Action Club and Co-Organizer of the Sunrise Movement Marin. With the Environmental Action Club, Niklas has made significant efforts to increase waste diversion on campus by launching a Recycling Pilot Program and educating peers on waste management. As an activist of the Sunrise Movement in Marin, he organized a climate justice strike to raise awareness of the urgency of climate action. Furthermore, Niklas initiated in collaboration with non-profit 350Marin a fossil fuel divestment campaign at the College of Marin, and gained his college president’s commitment to divest a six-million-dollar fund. When Niklas is not advocating sustainability solutions, he enjoys hiking, surfing, and cooking with his family and friends.  

Niklas’ internship focused on climate policy and community engagement advocacy to protect and promote natural resources and ecosystem services for West Marin’s coastal communities.

“I am excited to contribute to climate policy solutions in Marin County through my internship with EAC.”

Program Area: Climate Policy Campaigns
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director

Courtney’s internship was focused on public lands work, specifically at Point Reyes National Seashore. Originally from Sacramento, Courtney grew up hiking and traveling throughout California. Through her work as a child in assisting bird of prey research with her family, she realized the importance of environmental protections at a young age.

Courtney has worked with numerous nonprofits and community organizations, impacting local initiatives and environmental protections in California. Her recent work includes serving on the board of directors for The Institute for Criminal Justice Training reform and outreach and education to support better policy protections for California’s forests with the Sierra Club. She is a law student at UC Davis Law School. Very excited to be a part of the EAC team, she is greatly looking forward to protecting the beautiful wildlife and lands of West Marin.

“I have learned so much from my short time at EAC, and have been honored to work with such a supportive, inspiring, and ambitious group. The projects I worked on will ensure the future protections of the Point Reyes National Seashore, and the hands-on experience gained from collaborating with Marin County to develop new programs will support my career for years to come. I will truly miss the team.”

Program Area: Public Lands Campaign
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

LINDSAY DERIGHT GOLDASICH
Legal & Policy Intern
May - August 2019

Lindsay’s internship was focused on groundwater research. She is from Orange County and earned both her B.S. and M.S. from UC San Diego, studying Biology in between surf sessions. For her master’s work, she studied honey bees and how their foraging behavior was affected by neonicotinoid honey bees. Afterward, she continued working in research with UC San Diego but transitioned to microbiology and how microbes impact human, animal, plant, and environmental health. She was also the point person in the wet lab for the American Gut Project, a citizen science project allowing participants from around the world to learn more about their skin, gut, and oral microbial ecology.

Lindsay transitioned into law with the goal of applying her background in the sciences to environmental law. In 2019, she had just completed her first year at Berkeley Law and was excited to finally be able to put some of her legal knowledge to work by working on our team.

“Working with EAC was a great experience that lent insight into how effective community advocacy should be done. Every single person at EAC is passionate about protecting Marin’s unique ecosystems and resources for the good of the community. This became evident early on in my internship by the sheer number of community members who stopped by simply to say “Hi,” or who wanted to check in about a particular issue or event. EAC clearly has had an important impact on the community and is an important player in the conservation efforts around Marin. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with EAC, and am looking forward to seeing how they continue to grow.”

Program Area: Lands and Waters Campaigns
Advisor: Ashley Eagle-Gibbs, Legal and Policy Director

JAMES (JD) HENNESSEY
Coastal Advocate INTERN
June - August 2019

JD’s internship was focused on our Marin MPA Watch program. Growing up in Fairfax, California, he spent his free time mountain biking, running, and enjoying the outdoors in the greater Mount Tamalpais and Point Reyes area. These beautiful surroundings had a huge influence on his desire to help preserve and protect the environment.

JD will be entering his senior year at the University of Washington in the fall of 2019 studying international relations with a focus on global environmental policy. He hopes to become more involved in work with international organizations and/or jobs that keep him in nature. With EAC, he is excited to spend more time in the Point Reyes area working to inform local environmental policy and spread awareness of the Point Reyes wilderness to the local community.

Program Area: Marin MPA Watch
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director

Ashley’s internship was focused on Marin MPA Watch and the development of a five-year program report looking at human use trends on Duxbury Reef. Ashley joined the EAC team for a summer internship in 2019. Originally from Aptos, CA, Ashley spent the majority of her childhood boogie-boarding and exploring the beach. Her interest in policy began in junior high school where she participated on the Mock Trial team and continued on a team into high school. Wanting to combine her love for the ocean with policy, Ashley earned her B.S. in Marine Science from California State University Monterey Bay. While there, Ashley earned her SCUBA diving certification and volunteered at the Monterey Bay Aquarium with Sea Otter Research as well as the Watsonville Area Teens Conserving Habitats (WATCH) program which focused on mentoring high school students with research projects. In addition, Ashley has worked for California State Parks providing educational programs to school children as well as educating the general public about nature’s wonders.

To further her education, Ashley began her M.A. in Marine Conservation and Policy at Stony Brook University. Understanding the importance of policy and education, Ashley joined the EAC team working with MPA Watch. She is excited to teach the community how to collect scientific data and how this data can be used to inform policy change.

Following her internship, Ashley is now working with California State Parks at Seacliff Beach in Santa Cruz County. Check out some of her recent work as a co-editor of the Summer/Fall 2021 Catalyst Interpretive Newsletter.

“Spending the summer with EAC was an absolute pleasure. The staff shows incredible passion for environmental advocacy and protecting West Marin’s resources. I was able to share my passion for the ocean with the public as well as complete a couple projects that focused on marine protected areas. Thanks for all the support this summer EAC!”

Program Area: Marin MPA Watch
Advisor: Morgan Patton, Executive Director