Our Team
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Lisa ClarkeFounderLisa Clarke is the founder and executive director of Sustainable Marin Schools, an organization focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability within K-12 public schools. Initially an epidemiologist in cancer research, Lisa's shift to sustainability was driven by her recognition of climate change as “the most significant threat to public health that our children will face.”
Her hands-on experience with zero waste programs at her children's elementary school, combined with extensive research into best practices nationwide, led her to establish Sustainable Marin Schools. The organization’s mission is to support schools in cutting carbon emissions, reducing waste, building climate-resilient campuses, and preparing students to advocate for a sustainable future. It also empowers students to develop skills for careers in the growing green economy. Lisa currently partners with the Novato Unified School District, providing Zero Waste, Decarbonization, Campus Greening/Resilience, and Environmental Literacy programs in 10 schools. |
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Erica DurwoodProgram ManagerErica is a program manager at Sustainable Marin Schools. With a background in international relations, sustainability and marketing, Erica is passionate about using her career to further the cause she sees as most critical: climate change.
She looks forward to being a multiplying force and to helping SMS’ partner schools accelerate towards their sustainability and resiliency goals. Erica is dedicated to empowering our youth to live in and lead a greener future. |
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Sofia FranciscoFellow @ Olive ElementarySofia joins us with a degree in Speculative Design and a minor in Urban Studies & Planning from UC San Diego. Sofia believes that building a culture of sustainability is essential to a healthier planet and a brighter future.
At SMS, she’s excited to help young people understand the impact of their choices and encourage them to be mindful stewards of the environment. With a passion for sustainability and a love for working with kids, she fits right into the team. |
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Dani Silva HernandezFellow @ Hamilton TK-8With a degree in Ecological, Evolutionary, and Organismal Biology from CSU Chico, Dani brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainability to the team at Sustainable Marin Schools.
Driven by the belief that a culture of sustainability is essential for the health of our planet and future generations, Dani is committed to advocating for a more sustainable society. At SMS, her goal is to raise awareness within schools and inspire mindful practices that foster positive change and environmental responsibility. |
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AJ BautistaFellow @ San Jose Middle SchoolAJ joins us with a double degree from San Francisco State University—a B.S. in Environmental Science (emphasis on Climate Change & Sustainability) and a B.A. in Geography.
Passionate about the impact we leave behind as humans, he is dedicated to promoting a more sustainable lifestyle and creating positive change for future generations. |
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Ariel XiFellow @ Loma Verde Elementary SchoolAriel holds an M.S. in Applied Finance from Pepperdine University. She honed valuable experience in data analytics and program management within the fast-paced world of technology startups. However, it was becoming a mother that truly ignited her passion for sustainability and climate action.
Witnessing the world through her children's eyes sparked a deep commitment to ensuring a healthy planet for future generations. (And hey, if she can navigate climate change, maybe she'll finally crack the code on getting those kids to eat their vegetables.) |
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Tatiana MoralesFellow @ Lu Sutton Elementary SchoolTatiana is a graduate of Ohio State University with a B.S. in Food, Agricultural, Biological, and Ecological Engineering (specializing in Biological Engineering).
She’s passionate about teaching young minds the importance of caring for our environment and empowering them to help create a cleaner, more sustainable Earth. |
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Julia AndersonFellow @ Pleasant Valley Elementary SchoolWith a degree from the University of Oregon where she double-majored in Environmental Studies and Global Studies, Julia’s goal at SMS is to inspire the next generation of environmental activists and make a meaningful impact in the community.
Julia's excited to empower young people to protect our planet and help create lasting change. |
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Gabi WolfeFellow @ Rancho Elementary School & Novato High SchoolWith her Environmental Science degree and a minor in Sustainability from Oregon State University, Gabi’s mission is to foster eco-friendly practices within schools and inspire students to join the fight against climate change.
She’ll be leading efforts to reduce waste, green school campuses, and introduce climate literacy to students using her specialization in conservation, sustainability, and resources. |
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Yasmin ZavalaFellow @ Lynwood Elementary School & Novato High SchoolYasmin, a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, offers a unique perspective shaped by her upbringing in a small agricultural town, where she cultivated a deep connection to the earth and a lifelong appreciation for nature.
At SMS, her goal is to create a safe space where students can openly discuss solutions to climate change. She’s dedicated to not only teaching the importance of climate action but also instilling a sense of hope—something she believes is essential and must be chosen each day. |