Ecology Action is thrilled to announce that our very own Kirsten Liske has been honored as a 2024 Woman of the Year by Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay). This prestigious recognition underscores Kirsten’s profound impact in advancing equitable climate solutions and highlights Ecology Action’s tireless work in creating innovative responses to climate change while centering social justice.
The Woman of the Year award is a testament not only to Kirsten’s individual dedication, but also to the collaborative spirit and mission-driven focus of Ecology Action. Assemblymember Addis commended Kirsten and others for their work in bridging diverse communities, fostering partnerships, and uplifting social justice through meaningful climate action—a mission that is deeply embedded in our organization’s values.
A Legacy of Partnership and Impact
For decades, Ecology Action has been a leader in developing programs and partnerships that tackle climate change while advancing equity and inclusion. Kirsten’s recognition as Woman of the Year shines a spotlight on key initiatives that embody this ethos.
The Regional Climate Project Work Group
In collaboration with public agencies across the region, this groundbreaking initiative has developed and submitted over $60 million in funding proposals for equitable climate projects. By focusing on scalable, community-centered solutions, this work group exemplifies Ecology Action’s commitment to innovation and partnership in the face of the climate crisis.
Monterey Bay Area Climate Justice Collaborative
Ecology Action co-founded and continues to support this inclusive, cross-sector network. Working alongside partners like Regeneración Pájaro Valley Climate Action, the collaborative engages over 40 diverse leaders from Indigenous communities, environmental organizations, public agencies, and community-based social service providers. Through community-driven processes, this network develops justice-oriented climate solutions, implements transformative interventions, and shares power in unprecedented ways—all while centering equity and inclusion.
Living Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Values
Ecology Action’s commitment to DEI is operationalized in tangible ways that strengthen both our internal team and the communities we serve. Highlights include:
- Ensuring that our team’s demographics reflect those of the communities we serve.
- Offering bilingual pay differentials to recognize and reward cultural competency.
- Establishing offices in Salinas and Watsonville to deepen in-community service.
- Co-creating programs and funding proposals with community-based organization (CBO) partners, building their capacity to effect change.
Honoring a Shared Vision
This award serves as a celebration not only of Kirsten’s dedication to our organization and communities for the last 25 years, but of the entire Ecology Action team and our collaborative partners. It highlights our shared vision for a sustainable, equitable future—one where diverse communities come together to craft innovative solutions to the pressing challenges of climate change. Jim Murphy, CEO of Ecology Action, reflected on the significance of this recognition in the broader context of our mission.
“Climate change and resilience have become the defining social and environmental issues of our time. Ecology Action is committed to reducing carbon emissions, supporting environmental justice, and creating healthier businesses and more livable communities. We are deeply honored by this award from Assemblymember Addis acknowledging Kirsten Liske’s embodiment and commitment to advancing our organization’s mission.”
Kirsten Liske’s leadership exemplifies the heart of our mission: to create equitable, sustainable communities and scale climate solutions with economic, social, and environmental co-benefits. We thank Assemblymember Addis for honoring Kirsten’s incredible contribution and for shining a light on the transformative work happening in our region.
Congratulations, Kirsten—and thank you to the many partners and collaborators who made this achievement possible!
