May 24, 2017—Julia Clark only recently graduated, but she’s already doing what she can to give back and support current HSU students.
Since September of 2016, Julia (’15, Environmental Science) has made a monthly gift to strengthen education at HSU. She also donates her time by serving on committees for two sustainability-focused organizations, one of which is based at Humboldt State. At 24, Julia is already hard at work promoting sustainability and supporting education for the next generation of leaders.
Julia says her HSU education has opened doors for her, and now she works to create opportunities for others. “I try to shape my budget so I can dedicate a portion of my income to organizations doing good work,” she says.
Julia supports the Humboldt Loyalty Fund, which helps HSU pursue projects that enhance education for students in an ever-changing environment. Through the Humboldt Loyalty Fund, donors have supported dozens of projects, including a science lab renovation, the installation of collaborative research stations in the library, and the purchase of remote trail cameras to study wildlife.
Giving back has always been an important part of Julia’s life. “Growing up, my mother used to take me with her on environmental restoration projects,” she says. “At a young age I learned it’s possible to make a positive impact on the world.”
Julia’s environmental science degree from HSU landed her a job with GHD, a consulting firm in Eureka, where she works with geographic information systems, developing maps and spatial data for engineering projects involving water, transportation, and environmental restoration.
Informed by her work as a consultant, Julia sits on the steering committee for HSU’s Campus Center for Appropriate Technologies (CCAT), which integrates the use of sustainable technologies and methods into a campus living environment for students. As a former co-director of CCAT, Julia now uses her experience and knowledge to support current students carrying on CCAT’s important mission.
Julia also sits on the board of directors for the California Student Sustainability Coalition, which supports student organizations working to help their educational institutions advance sustainable policies.
She epitomizes the spirit of Humboldt State graduates—moving forward in her own career while devoting time and money to help others move forward, too; whether in pursuit of higher education or a more sustainable future.
Julia is living proof that it’s never too soon to start making a difference. You can join her efforts in supporting students by giving to the Humboldt Loyalty Fund. To learn more about CCAT, visit its website at ccat.humboldt.edu. If you have questions, or would like to learn about other ways to support HSU students, visit loyalty.humboldt.edu, email the Office of Philanthropy at giving@humboldt.edu, or call 707-826-5200.