Jen Duggan: The new Vice President and Director of CLF Vermont brings a track record of holding polluters accountable and a passion for working at the intersection of the environment and public health.

PositionFIVE QUESTIONS FOR ... - Conservation Law Foundation - Interview

You grew up in Louisiana near Cancer Alley. How did that shape your career?

Driving between my childhood home near New Orleans and Baton Rouge, I would see the dozens of chemical plants and oil refineries that lined this stretch of land. The sight, the smell, and even the taste of this place left a big impression on me. Even as a young girl, I could see the disproportionate burdens these communities were forced to bear.

That made me passionate about the intersection of public health and the environment and motivated me to go to law school. As an attorney for the Environmental Integrity Project, I was fortunate to work with Baton Rouge residents to improve a clean air permit for a large refinery. It was satisfying to come full circle and work alongside the community.

You've worked both inside and outside of government--what has that taught you about how to accomplish advocacy goals?

I deeply respect the scientists, engineers, lawyers, and other agency employees who dedicate their careers to public service. After working as general counsel for the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, I also understand the tensions agency leadership and staff have to balance and the limited resources they have to do their jobs.

When it comes to building powerful and effective advocacy campaigns, this perspective is incredibly helpful. It has helped to make me ready to carry forward CLF's reputation as problem solvers and creative thinkers who aren't afraid to take on big challenges.

You've spent much of your career fighting for clean water. How do you hope to make a difference as head of CLF Vermont?

Water is fundamental to human life and has played such an important role throughout my life. One of my earliest memories is sitting on a dock in south Louisiana as my grandpa pulled up his boat and unloaded fresh oysters. We all sat together in the sunshine eating oysters straight from the water, my feet dangling over the bayou.

In Vermont, we're fortunate...

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