Denaya Shorter Luncheon and Nature Walk
As our climate changes and current systems transform, collapse, and shift, there is an urgent need for a truly diverse and inclusive approach to ensuring a sustainable and just future for all. Marginalized environmental leaders and activists often face unique challenges and barriers to building successful careers in the industry.
Join us for a stimulating lunch and learn session with Denaya Shorter, a dynamic environmental leader, as she shares her professional and lived experiences navigating the intersection of identity, equity, and environment. In this interactive discussion, we will explore how race and identity shape our career journeys and experiences, and examine the obstacles and opportunities of challenging the status quo in the environmental industry.
Denaya will provide insights and practical strategies for overcoming these barriers and building a lasting and fulfilling career. Students of all levels will be inspired and empowered to identify their passions and purpose in this critical field. Whether you are a seasoned sustainability enthusiast, or just starting to explore the possibilities, this session is not to be missed!
Then, let’s get outside! After our midday meetup, join environmental leader and outdoor enthusiast, Denaya Shorter for a rejuvenating nature walk and talk. Let's explore our sense of place as we take some time to reconnect with the campus spring wildlife and greenery, and each other. Take some time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of campus life while we hold space for reflection, exploration, and conversation. All are welcome to join. This walk is wheelchair accessible.
About Denaya
Denaya Shorter is a dynamic environmental leader and California native, whose work is focused at the intersection of equity, community, and environment. With over a decade of professional experience spanning from wildlife biology and youth development to education, journalism, and civic engagement, Denaya is passionate about driving sustainable and equitable social change. She holds a MA.Ed. in Urban Environmental Education from Antioch University Seattle and a B.S. in Biology and Ecology from California State University, Fresno.
As a Program Director for a Bay Area environmental justice nonprofit, Denaya leads climate action, zero waste, and sustainable living education and engagement programming and services. She is committed to incorporating principles of equity and inclusion into sustainable development projects, promoting community-led climate solutions that prioritize marginalized voices, and breaking down systemic barriers to create pathways for more resilient and just communities. As a woman of color in the environmental field, Denaya recognizes the importance of representation and is proud to serve as a visible role model for aspiring environmental leaders in the fight for a more diverse and inclusive industry culture.