The Fall 2025 elections are closed.
Candidate Statements
Please read the statements of candidates for the Executive Committees of the Maryland Chapter and your local Group by clicking the relevant links below. (Note that the candidates are listed in randomized order. The statements are also available as a PDF.)
Candidates were asked to address three questions: 1) What would you like to accomplish as an Executive Committee member? 2) What skills, experience and/or new ideas will you bring to the Executive Committee? 3) How will your role on the Executive Committee reflect diversity? (Diversity can include ethnicity, age, regions within Maryland, affiliations with under-represented groups, etc.)
Candidates were also offered the opportunity to include photographs with their statements, but it was not required.
All members can vote for Maryland Chapter at-large ExCom candidates:
Additionally, members can vote for Group ExCom candidates representing their respective Group. The number of open seats up for election is noted for each Group.
- Anne Arundel Group ExCom Candidates (Anne Arundel County)
- Catoctin Group ExCom Candidates (Frederick and Carroll Counties)
- Greater Baltimore Group ExCom Candidates (Baltimore City, Baltimore, and Harford Counties)
- Howard Group ExCom Candidates (Howard County)
- Lower Eastern Shore Group ExCom Candidates (Worcester, Dorchester, Somerset, and Wicomico Counties)
- Montgomery Group ExCom Candidates (Montgomery County)
- Prince George's Group ExCom Candidates (Prince George’s County)
- Southern Maryland Group ExCom Candidates (Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties)
- Washington Group ExCom Candidates (Washington County) no election this year
(Other regions of MD do not have an active local Group with elections at this time.)
The Ballot
- If you have a Sierra Club account, log in to your account using the "Vote Now" button below. This should take you directly to the voter portal. Go to Step 4 below.
- If you do not yet have a Sierra Club account, click this "Create your account" link and follow the instructions. Your membership number is not required but may be useful. This guide can help if you have trouble.
- Once you have logged into your new account, click on a button at the top of the dashboard called “Vote in your local Chapter/Group election” or on "Sierra Club Elections Portal".
- Next, click on the orange vote button for the Maryland Chapter's ExCom election, and complete the ballot.
- Important: If you are a member of a local Group, please be sure to vote in their ExCom election as well by clicking the orange button for their election after you submit the Chapter ballot.
- If you have any trouble, here is a more detailed walkthrough that can help you. Alternatively, you can print and mail your ballot.
The voting period runs from October 30 through December 4, 2026.
- If you are in a joint membership, both members are entitled to vote; please submit separate electronic ballots for each member of the joint membership, using the same membership ID number.
- To be eligible to vote in the elections, your Sierra Club membership must have been active approximately 1 week before the election's start date. If you joined shortly before this deadline, you might be unable to vote online, but you can still print and mail your ballot.
- When logging in, be sure to use the email address that is associated with your paid Sierra Club membership.
If you have any questions or technical difficulties with your electronic ballot, please contact ElecCom@mdsierra.org.
Candidate Statements
Maryland Chapter ExCom Candidates
(Vote for up to 3)
Kathleen Michels, PhD
I would help integrate input from Sierra Club MD members with the existing mission and goals and work with the other executive committee members to ensure the Chapter remains responsive to members and needs into the future.
I have decades of experience in creating, managing and evolving nonprofit organizations and government programs with many stakeholders. I have also worked with students’ groups to encourage environmental awareness and advocacy over the years with the PTAs, Friends of Sligo Creek and One Montgomery Green.
As a woman and a mother, I am well placed to help reach out to and encourage environmental awareness in the upcoming generations. My husband and I are also active in groups working with and for immigrants.
Rich Norling
I’ve been representing the Greater Baltimore Group on the Chapter ExCom, but because of the national crisis I believe I need to step away temporarily from local issues to focus all my time and energy on state and national efforts. As an at large member of the Chapter ExCom, I will redouble our efforts to elect public officials who are committed to protecting both the environment and democracy. And to celebrate those who fulfill those commitments well and hold accountable those who need to improve.
I have a wide range of experience in both politics and environmental advocacy at the national, state, and local levels. As the Maryland Chapter’s Political Chair, I have led successful efforts to elect new pro-environment officials in Baltimore in 2020, statewide in 2022, and Senator Angela Alsobrooks last year. I also lead the Chapter’s support of state legislation to strengthen our democracy and elections.
I've been a Sierra Club member since 1993, when I lobbied for Smart Growth legislation. At DNR during the O’Malley Administration, I worked on innovative environmental policies and managed the Governor’s bill that increased by 50% the amount of State-owned land designated as Wildlands to remain forever wild.
I strongly support diversity and inclusion in all our actions, including our internal organization, the partners we choose to work with, and the candidates we support. As chair of a Judicial Nominating Commission, I made it possible for Governor Parris Glendening to appoint the first African American judge in Harford County.
Allegra Cangelosi
My goal is to assist the Maryland Sierra Club to invest its considerable expertise and peoplepower in pursuits with great potential to protect and restore the State’s and Chesapeake Bay region’s environment, or critical aspects of it, in both the near and longer term.
I have skills in getting solid things done for the environment while building lasting coalitions on the way to doing so. I have had a long career in aquatic ecosystem protection and restoration, including leading policy-relevant field and laboratory research, legislative development (mostly federal), and gaining passage of beneficial legislation. I worked on Capitol Hill (Office of Senator John Glenn) and off the Hill building and maintaining a bipartisan coalition of Great Lakes Senators and Representatives to achieve solid environmental gains for the Great Lakes. We achieved, for example, the first federal laws to regulate ballast water discharges to prevent new introductions of non-indigenous aquatic species into the Great Lakes and nationally (both passed by unanimous consent), and substantial appropriations for resource protection annually, among other important legislation. I left the Hill to lead large multidisciplinary scientific research projects to lay the groundwork for better prevention approaches. The work resulted in numerous publications in peer-reviewed literature, and policy progress. At the same time, I served on policy and scientific panels regionally, nationally and internationally. In my retirement, I am a member of Takoma Park’s Sustainability Committee.
I am female, with uncorrectable legal blindness (visual “disability”).
Sonia Demiray
If elected, I will work hard towards:
- Permanently protecting at least 30% of Maryland’s lands and waters, as committed in the Global Biodiversity Framework and defined by the USGS. Recent claims of having reached this goal are far from the truth. We need real protections, transparency, and accountability.
- Halting forest ecosystem degradation, conversions, and rampant disinformation.
- Promoting regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, and silvopasture by converting cash crop fields – something we are initiating on our own farm in Frederick County.
- Ensuring common sense limitations on data center development and zoning, with a sharp eye on delays to our 100% clean energy transition and on cumulative impacts.
As a lifelong climate activist and the Executive Director of the Climate Communications Coalition, I am no stranger to current pressing issues and continue to support legislation and outreach alongside the Sierra Club. Applying my background as a communications strategist, I support and collaborate with multiple state and federal environmental organizations, especially around forests and biodiversity protections. I am keenly aware of the latest science on these fast-moving topics and the disinformation around them through my ongoing graduate studies on Forests and Climate Change at Oregon State University. Finally, having lived in Maryland over 25 years, I have also gained ample experience with environmental justice efforts and have worked with the NAACP-MSC, CASA, CEEJH - among others - work in which my diverse background (born in Caracas, Venezuela; a dual citizen of the U.S. and Germany) has been helpful.
Joseph P. Horgan
I would like to work on volunteer engagement. Also, we have State and local elections upcoming in Maryland. As someone who pays attention to local issues (e.g., no new highways, public transit funding, land use issues), I want to help the Sierra Club’s endorsement process to ensure that the candidates we endorse are closely aligned with our issues.
My background working for the Teamsters, a member of OPEIU Local 2, a former member of the DC Labor Board, and OPEIU representative to Progressive Maryland, gives me a unique view of Labor’s issues. When I was former co-chair of the Montgomery chapter of the Maryland Green Party (2002-2005), the Montgomery Greens grew from ~300 members to ~1500 in 18 months, attributable to direct communication with members and future members. (Currently, I am a registered Democrat, as the Democratic Primary is where Montgomery’s elections are decided.) I also bring a wealth of knowledge about computers (I’ve built and maintained all of our devices which run open-source applications and the Linux Operating System). Along with my wife, Diane Cameron, I have been active in local campaigns, including the struggle to protect Ten Mile Creek, and the TAME Coalition’s fight to take M-83 highway out of our master plans.
As an old white male, I bring nothing but my experience that DEI adds value to any organization focused on growing membership, including by bringing points of view that I had not thought of.
Anne Arundel Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 5)
Bob Fuller
I am concerned about our warming planet and the effect it will have on future generations. I want to educate and advocate to reduce the impact as much as possible. Local efforts can ease the effects of climate change on our community. I would like to encourage people to take actions to reduce their carbon footprint. I am also interested in taking actions to clean up the Chesapeake Bay, so people can enjoy swimming, fishing and other water related activities without fear of pollution and toxins.
I have a master’s degree in physics, so I understand scientific principles that are related to climate change. I work as an electrical engineer and have data analysis and problem-solving skills. I have a love for the outdoors and have always enjoyed hiking, camping, and sailing. I have lived in seven different states across the country, so I have exposure to many different ideas and ways of doing things.
I have worked with many people from different countries and cultures, so I appreciate the value of diversity in any organization. I know that from diversity comes strength and will strive to increase the diversity within the Sierra Club. Environmental issues often affect the marginalized population the most and I will support only policies that attempt to rectify this injustice.
Deirdre Suddeth
Should I be reelected or not, I will continue to do more public outreach, bringing awareness of Sierra Club and our goals and value to an ever-widening circle of influence. Building membership will increase our legislative clout, to pass the Bottle Bill for example.
After decades of theatrical and retail training, I am comfortable meeting people in any capacity, from tabling events to in person lobbying of legislators. I am persuasive in both speech and writing. The new ideas will come as new challenges present themselves.
As a little old white lady, I may seem the very antithesis of diversity for Sierra Club. However, few can claim a sixty-year history as an activist: from March of Dimes and UNICEF to ERA, Science, Women's and Climate marches, I like to push in good directions. Reelect me.
Elvia Thompson
I want to:
- Work with Group members to develop a Strategic Plan that would include these actions:
- Take steps to give the Group more visibility including frequent press releases, letters to the editor, social media posts, posts on LinkedIn, speaking at civic meetings such as Rotary Clubs
- Become the local generalist environmental organization with expertise on a wide range of issues
- Publicize group actions on an ongoing basis so Group is top-of-mind with environmentalists, elected officials and business leaders
- Ensure that all communications include references to Chapter goals
- Organize at least four educational sessions a year for the general public
- Organize at least four outings and clean-ups for members and non-members
- Continue to participate in local multi-organization events such as River Days
- Grow the Group membership, particularly bringing in people under age 50
- Fundraise to make these actions possible
- Work more closely with other local environmental groups on an ongoing basis
- Work more closely with the Maryland Chapter
I bring over 25 years of nonprofit experience:
- 15-year member of Annapolis Maritime Museum Board
- CEO & President of environmental nonprofit Annapolis Green for 18 years
- Board member of Electric Vehicle Association of Greater DC
- Current Board Secretary of national Electric Vehicle Association
- Specific areas of expertise: coalition building, communications, event planning, graphic arts, many personal connections throughout the environmental, political, and businesses community
My participation adds diversity to the ExCom since I am:
- Of Hispanic descent & speak Spanish fluently
- Female
Shirley Fuller
I want to support the work of the Anne Arundel County Sierra Club. I want to preserve the beauty of the great outdoors for future generations. I desire a clean Chesapeake Bay where wildlife thrives, and people can swim in clean, safe water. I am also very concerned about climate change and want to do all I can to limit the effects of increasing temperatures.
The love of the outdoors and the desire to see it protected for future generations motivates me to serve on the Executive Committee. I understand the importance every level of governmental politics plays in securing protections and improvements in the environment. I love to hike and to sail on the bay and long to see a day when the bay is clean again. I am reasonably computer literate and have good communication skills. I am already active in my church’s Earth Care ministry and can utilize some of those skills and resources as a committee member.
I am a strong supporter of social justice and will always make decisions with social justice and equity in mind. I believe that diversity brings strength and is essential in any organization. Through my church and various community affiliations such as ACT, I am connected to a large diversity of people, and often underrepresented groups, in our county. Environmental Justice is social justice as environmental issues often affect the marginalized population the most and I will support only policies that attempt to rectify this injustice.
Return to top
Catoctin Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 4)
Theresa Furnari
As an Ex Com-member, it is my desire to increase membership, participation and restart our outings programs. I have taken the necessary training and once I complete the mentor-led outings, I will be able to lead outings for our Group, which will increase our exposure.
I have exercised the skills necessary for this position. I have served on Environmental Justice Committees, one of which I chaired. I was a past Board Member of Chesapeake Youth and Development working with underserved children in Baltimore City. I am a current Board member for Blue Water Baltimore, one of our pillars is Justice, Equity, Inclusion and Diversity. As an active Master Gardener, I work with schools and community groups. Currently I am the Group’s representative on the Conservation Committee.
Lastly, I have been a Sierra Club sustaining member for many years and have lobbied for legislation advocated by the Chapter. I am an older active individual living in a rural town that may not be as familiar with the work of the Sierra Club. I hope this and my work with underrepresented groups gives me the added experience when working to improve the diversity of the Sierra Club.
James Wagner
I have been a Catoctin Group ExCom member since April 2022, and have been active with the Group since 2019. I want to continue to contribute my skills and collaborate with others in the work of the Sierra Club to restore our natural world, both locally, and more broadly. Real change has always started with the people, in grassroots organizations like the Sierra Club, leading those in power to right action.
I am a Licensed Environmental Health Specialist with the State of Maryland, and I worked as an environmental inspector with the Maryland Department of the Environment for 15.5 years. I have a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology. I’m involved with many environmental groups. I regularly attend the Maryland Commission on Climate Change’s Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Work Group meetings. I have been an Electric Vehicle owner for over 10 years. I have been a citizen advocate in Peace, Social Justice and the Environment for over 20 years. I have led and served, and continue to lead and serve, on many committees. I’m a conscientious team player, with broad interests and a broad skill set that cuts across many disciplines--qualities that I’m sure will continue to be helpful to the Committee.
Regarding diversity, it is imperative that everyone, regardless of race, gender or other biological characteristics, or socio-economic status, be embraced and supported in their desire to participate in our Group. And the Catoctin Group ExCom should continue to assure equitable treatment of all, in all we do.
Jan Rubenstein
I am applying for a position on the Sierra Club Catoctin Group Executive Committee because I am interested in helping to improve the world we are leaving behind for our children and their children. I feel climate change, consumer wastefulness, dirty energy, and pollution, to name a few, are major problems that our generation and those before us have created. We have a duty to do what we can to stop these issues from continuing to destroy our world and life as we have been privileged to know it. I need to learn more about these issues and what steps can be taken to address them. My particular passion is to reduce waste and encourage reuse of materials.
I have been a member of the Executive Committee for the Catoctin Group for the past 2 years, helping our group spread the word about what we do in the community. I have previous experience with other organizations, such as 4H, and was involved in PTA when my children were in school. I am a retired veterinarian with experience running a multi-doctor practice.
I live in Carroll County, which gives me a unique perspective compared to most of the SCCG members. I have been working to grow participation in Carroll County by adopting a road and doing trash cleanups, as well as staffing a table at Carroll County events to encourage Carroll residents to get involved.
Kerri Hesley
As a current member of the Executive Committee, I would like to continue our quest to broaden our membership. We have been working on expanding our social media presence, updating our website (thanks to Jan Rubenstein’s great efforts), and spreading the word via monthly emails to our members. I hope to continue the Zero Waste efforts of the group. We have been very active in working for the goal of a statewide Bottle Bill and I want to build on that, with more frequent roadside cleanups, calling attention to the numbers of beverage containers littered. I hope to increase local awareness of the dangers of microplastics and what we can do locally, including convincing the county to pass a meaningful and best practice plastic bag ban.
My experience as co-chair of the Executive Committee has given me the knowledge of what is required of an active club, as well as connections throughout the environmental community in Frederick County. Prior to my retirement, I was a diagnostic radiologist in Hagerstown where I was the medical director of both the Women’s Imaging Center and the Center for Breast Health.
My background as a physician contributes to a diversity of professional backgrounds. Through a campaign to attract others that are of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and ages, I hope to contribute to diversity within the group.
Greater Baltimore Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 5)
Beth Jarrett
I have been actively involved with the Greater Baltimore Group of the Sierra Club for over 3 years, and I fully believe in its mission and vision. The climate crisis is not a future threat—it is happening now. We must act urgently through legislation, education, scientific research, and lifestyle changes to protect our planet.
As a member of the Executive Committee, I would work to expand our reach and impact. Increasing our visibility and broadening public understanding of our cause will help us gain the support we need to become even more effective advocates. I believe I can contribute to this by engaging more diverse voices, particularly young people who are deeply concerned about the environment and eager to make a difference.
As a parent of three children, I see firsthand how today's youth want to understand the issues, take positive action, and share what they learn. I would work to create opportunities that foster youth involvement and leadership in climate action.
I bring a unique combination of skills and experience that make me a strong candidate for the Executive Committee. I have a background in Chemistry and a deep love for science, a passion and dedication to environmental advocacy through my Sierra Club work, experience communicating complex topics clearly and engagingly, and years of work in corporate America where I developed strong skills in research, communication, negotiation, and strategic planning.
I am committed to the Sierra Club’s mission and would be honored to continue on the Executive Committee.
Marie LaPorte
I’ve been an environmentalist for 40 years and a proud Sierra Club member for over 20 years. After retiring, I started volunteering with the Sierra Club. First, I was a lobby night captain, then joined the Chapter zero-waste team, and was later asked to join the Greater Baltimore Group executive committee, where I’ve chaired multiple committees over the last five years. In my first term, I worked on zero-waste helping pass the “Bring Your Own Bag” legislation, which reduced 300 million single-use plastic bags used in Baltimore County.
Last year, I led the support behind Councilman Dorsey’s successful effort to phase-out harmful, polluting, gas-powered leaf blowers in Baltimore City. There are now nine ordinances banning gas leaf blowers across our state including in Annapolis, Baltimore City, and Montgomery County and we hope to do the same in Baltimore County. Leaf blowers harm everyone, especially workers and I’ve been building connections and education within landscaping and Hispanic communities.
Baltimore and Harford Counties earned an “F” and Baltimore City earned a “D” in air quality from the American Lung Association. When we think about our rights, shouldn’t we all have a right to breathe clean air and drink clean water? Shouldn’t we all have cooling and calming green spaces near us where we can enjoy trees, nature, and wildlife? Shouldn’t we preserve our wonderful biodiversity for the next generation?
Doing the right thing doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. Sometimes it’s just learning to do things differently.
Kelly White
Hello, my name is Kelly White, and I have lived in Baltimore City for over two years. I teach middle school science at the McDonogh School in Owings Mills, but I have taught all over the United States for the past 19 years. I am married with one adopted daughter, one dog, and two cats. In my free time, I like to read, run, and put together LEGO sets.
I would like to serve on the Greater Baltimore Group Executive Committee for several reasons. First, I believe protecting our wild spaces is directly connected to our well-being as a world. If we lose the wild spaces, then the world will be in a dire state. Second, we are drowning in plastic and garbage, so I want to help create policies to address our waste production habits. Finally, every time I read the news, there is more bad news for the environment, so I’d like to help create some good news for our dear planet because we all know there is no plan B.
Chris Shaughness
I would like to use my platform as a Sierra Club committee member to bring more awareness of how every individual can help to support our pollinators. Many people are unaware of how their actions can make a positive or negative impact. The smallest effort of just having a planter with native flowers on your deck can make a difference.
As a current founder and president of a non-profit organization and former Executive Director of another non-profit, I understand how to work with boards and committees. It requires listening and comprehension skills as well as compromise and a willingness to do the work, not just expecting others to do it all. Prior to this experience, I worked for two animal shelters as Marketing, Public Relations, and Social Media Director. I am very comfortable with speaking to the public, tabling at events, and drafting emails and literature. I also was a lobbyist for the Humane Society of the United States (now called Humane World for Animals) for four years and served on the Advisory Commission for Baltimore County Animal Services (and one year as chair). While on the commission, I was part of the team who drafted legislation for cat trapping/neuter/return (TNR) in the county.
Howard Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 6)
Peter Alexander, PhD
After several years as a member of the Maryland Chapter, Sierra Club, and working as an advocate for chapter priorities at the Maryland General Assembly (MGA), I’d like to take the next step in promoting these efforts. As an ExCom member, I hope to work with Club membership and across our environmental coalition to advance the Club’s environmental priorities. My technical writing background as a scientist and more recently in preparing testimony for the MGA should continue to be useful for ExCom activities. I hope that I can bring a fresh perspective to the ExCom. I can’t claim any special ethnic diversity, and at 71 years of age I may or may not represent a unique demographic. Nor is Western Howard County a particularly unusual region. All that said, I acknowledge the need for diversity and inclusion of underserved community priorities, and will make every effort to consider diversity concerns in my ExCom role.
Patricia Soffen
I have been on the Executive Committee in the Howard County Group for the past 9 years. During that time, I have worked to increase participation with our membership by coordinating programs and outings. I have been active in coordinating our Zero Waste campaign and the Political Committee. I am also the editor of our monthly newsletters that you receive in your inbox. In the future I will continue to work to expand both the conservation/environmental work here in the county and expand programs to include newer members in activities and involvement in the club while making it a priority to continue to diversify the membership of the Sierra Club in Howard County. I will also work to bring the Sierra Club into more collaborations with other local environmental groups. Our group is working on becoming more active in the community and it is exciting to be part of that!
Lower Eastern Shore Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 6)
Patrick A. Trate
Three things I would like to accomplish as an ExCom member: continue my work with the Group’s Zero Waste team to reduce use of plastic through personal behavior modification and education at tabling events and other opportunities; expand my support of transportation means other than automobiles through work with local governments to expand and improve bicycle and pedestrian paths; and continue supporting Eastern Shore politicians who are eco-friendly.
Skills and experience include first-hand cooperation with like-minded local nonprofits such as Go Green OC and hands-on support of local efforts to reduce the volume of trash and food waste currently being trucked to Chester, PA for incineration. New ideas include leveraging existing personal relationships with local politicians such as Zack Tyndell, mayor of Berlin, MD, to further eco-friendly projects, and with Patricia Stevens, who consults to Maryland and local governments on bicycle and pedestrian safety efforts.
One of my volunteer efforts with the Sierra Club in support of the nonprofit Go Green OC is to reduce the amount of waste being trucked from Ocean City, Maryland, to an incinerator in a low-income, black and brown neighborhood in Chester, PA. The incinerator pollutes the air in its vicinity. While many activists would like to see the incinerator shut down, the next best thing is to cut down on the volume of incinerated waste. We do this by diverting food waste from Ocean City restaurants to a local composting site. As of summer 2025, we had diverted over one million pounds of waste.
Suzanne Russell
I am passionate about protecting the environment and preserving it for future generations. I founded a solar company that installed and serviced residential systems, and I transformed my own home into a model of sustainability with solar PV, solar hot water, energy-efficient upgrades, composting, rain barrels, and an organic garden.
My professional background combines finance, leadership, and sustainability. A CPA, I began my career with Deloitte, later working in sales and instruction with Dale Carnegie, and as Regional Marketing Manager for an architectural and engineering firm. In that role, I served as an officer and committee chair for organizations including AWWA, CWEA, APWA, and CEAM. As Chair of AWWA’s National Membership Committee, I was recognized as the global top recruiter in 1996 and 2000. Today, I serve as Energy Manager in the Office of Energy and Sustainability for the State of Maryland, ensuring that the purchase of energy in state operations of $23 million meets the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standards, reduces costs and advances clean energy goals.
I have also worked to support diversity and inclusion throughout my career and community service. My experiences include teaching free tennis lessons to underprivileged youth, ensuring minority-owned businesses were engaged in public contracts, and chairing a major fundraising golf event for Water for People, a nonprofit focused on building lasting solutions to end the global water crisis.
I bring a diverse set of skills, leadership experience, and a lifelong commitment to sustainability that I am eager to contribute to the Executive Committee.
Jacqueline Grindrod
As an Executive Committee member, I will seek to increase our membership, strive to further meet our stated goals, such as by staffing tabling events where we can show people how to contribute to preserving and protecting the environment, and create new channels of outreach, such as presentations to other organizations and communities, to improve the cleanliness of our food, water, air and soil.
I believe we should work to become well known to the Lower Eastern Shore community as dedicated and determined conservationists who will ally with like-minded groups and organizations and take whatever legal means we can to advance the improvement of earth’s ecosystems which are fundamental to our continued existence. Finally, we must fight against those societal choices that empower and reward privateers at the expense of all others.
Grey Lee
Born in Maryland and raised on the eastern shore, my passion for upholding environmentalist values and implementing them in my work is rooted in my love for Maryland's natural landscape. I have dedicated my studies to the field of environmental science and outdoor education as a Salisbury University undergraduate student. At university, I’ve taken the unique opportunity to travel and experience the natural beauty of Sweden, Germany, and Scotland, gaining diverse perspectives on how different cultures shape attitudes, education, and policy relating to their environment. As an ExCom member, I can introduce new ideas cultivated throughout my travels to the LES group from these experiences, along with my lifelong dedication to community involvement through advocacy, outreach, and volunteer efforts. Now that I am back to living in my home state, my determination for keeping our ecosystems clean of waste, providing education to my community about impactful sustainable practices, and advocating for local change has been revitalized. Without a doubt, these are the building blocks of a momentous grassroots movement, and I am eager to learn new skills and work towards Sierra Club goals with the skills I do have. I know there’s much more to learn as I explore the world and create a network of likeminded individuals, but I believe my dedication to environmental causes and willingness to work towards a better, sustainable future will be a valuable asset to this group.
Natalie Bush
I look forward to becoming an ExCom member as a young(ish) adult who loves writing, art, and the outdoors. I am someone who is stubbornly optimistic about my future and the future of the planet. As I look to my peers I am often alarmed and saddened to see very little thought put into how consumer culture and instant gratification negatively impact the bigger picture, the community, and the earth. I hope that by working with this group, I can make tangible change and foster new ideas and growth towards a brighter future. My commitment will inspire more people my age and younger to make the planet and our communities happier and healthier. My mission is to show there is another way, a better way. It’s right outside our doors, not on a screen or in a product for sale. I dream, even when it’s hard. That is why I know I’ll make an excellent addition to this team.
Kathy Hardy
As an ExCom member, I would like to:
- Continue to manage the web page as well as learn more about the program to enhance our visibility.
- Continue to manage Facebook as needed.
- Continue to manage membership including recognizing problem areas in engaging members.
The skills and experience I bring to the ExCom are computer skills to manage the webpage, Facebook and current membership.
My role on the ExCom will reflect diversity by my continuing to highlight issues like pollution, etc. that may affect marginalized communities.
Montgomery Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 5)
Linda Schade
Motivation: Passion and commitment to civic engagement and supporting the web of life. Local action feels especially important now. I know, appreciate and work well with numerous members of the current ExComm. Passionate about ecosystem restoration.
Skills and Experience: Organized two stormwater engagement events in Montgomery and Prince Georges County on behalf of MD Sierra Club and MS4 permitting issues. Long term experience with civic engagement and coalition building. Worked for Audubon Naturalist Society on Montgomery County's Ten Mile Creek campaign. Spearheaded the passage of the 2005 state paper ballot/election integrity bill in Annapolis. Former campaign manager for Marc Elrich. Former candidate for State House in District 20. My professional background includes state climate action plan work in US states and in Mexican and Chinese at subnational levels. Owner of the Sanctuary Urban Farm and Native Plant Nursery which has active partnerships in the local food security movement with Koiner Farm Conservancy and Impact Silver Spring. My two Masters degrees seem relevant in Forestry and Environmental Studies from Yale, and Regional Planning from Cornell. Mushroom forager and grower.
DEI: I strongly support racial justice and understand that environmental justice is not a side dish but inextricably linked to protecting our planet. I was a police accountability activist for many years.
ADDITIONAL WORK/ Interests: Biodiversity and climate change, local food security and native plants.
Rich Mandel
After a career as a safety & environmental compliance manager for both governmental and private organizations I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Montgomery County Group’s Executive Committee in April 2023. In this capacity I have participated in the International Energy Code and Green Construction Code (IECC & IgCC) working group and was appointed Alternate Delegate to the Maryland Chapter’s Executive Committee. In addition, I participated in the Maryland Chapter’s lobby day activities advocating for the Advanced Clean Truck Bill.
Going forward I would like to continue utilizing my expertise towards the promotion and advocacy of progressive environmental causes in Montgomery County and the State of Maryland. As a Sierra Club member since 1981 I have been a participant on numerous national outings and am a graduate of the club’s national outdoor leadership training program to include certification in both Wilderness First Aid and Adult CPR. I would like to apply the knowledge that I gained from the club’s training program towards reinvigorating the Montgomery County Group’s outings program. Other activities in support of progressive causes have included serving as a Member of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the Rachel Carson Council since 2003, serving as a member of Montgomery County’s Solid Waste Advisory Committee from 1993 – 1995, as well as being actively involved in progressive electoral politics since the early 1990’s.
Karen Metchis
I retired in 2019 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency where I worked on climate change issues. And I have been volunteering locally since then including serving on the Montgomery County Sierra Club ExCom Committee for the past three years.
My priority is to address the causes and the impacts of climate change. Daily choices by individuals and families are important to reduce greenhouse gases and other pollutants and to build personal resilience. However, local government can facilitate these “choices” by prioritizing climate smart budgets and policies. Change happens by simultaneously putting in place societal structures (regulations, ordinances, standards of practice, technology), changing public behavior, and ensuring our politicians address the urgency to invest in solutions.
Janette Rosenbaum
With 350Madison - which worked with the Sierra Club, and which was so successful it took over the state and became 350Wisconsin - I supported a campaign that kept 876 million barrels of oil in the ground through a legal strategy that delayed the expansion of a pipeline. I also led a project to research the environmental views of gubernatorial candidates and provide this information to voters.
In Montgomery County, I was involved in the climate workgroups that produced the proposal that became the BEPS. I contributed to the development of that proposal, culminating in the County Council voting to adopt the regulations in February. Meanwhile, I worked with the TAME Coalition to advocate against the proposed M83 highway; the County Council voted to remove M83 from the master plans in July.
I'm also the Chair of the Gaithersburg Environmental Affairs Committee. My committee secured the passage of the pesticide ordinance, opened two public compost dropoffs (the third opened October 8), and hosted four Fix-It Fairs. As President of the Muddy Branch Alliance, I organized an annual native plant sale that engaged hundreds of people in sustainable gardening and raised $50,000 for clean water.
I would like to support the campaigns for building electrification, renewable energy, clean transportation, stream protection, zero waste, and electoral action.
I am aro/ace, agender, Ashkenazi, and autistic. I will probably bring down the ExCom's average age. As a resident of the east side of Gaithersburg, I am embedded within one of America's most diverse communities.
Carrie Witkop
Carrie is a local environmental activist, artist, and bicyclist committed to the protection of our natural environment and the health of our communities. She was elected to the Montgomery County Sierra Club Executive Committee in 2023 and works on solid waste solutions. If reelected she will continue this effort. Carrie is a founding member of her neighborhood environmental committee and organizes environmental activities. Her work on community tree programs creates awareness of the environmental, social, and economic benefits of trees. Carrie is a member of the Montgomery County Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions. She has also advocated for bike and walking paths to encourage citizens out of their cars. Carrie was instrumental in getting the Lawton Farms to School Lunch Bill passed unanimously in the Maryland State House in 2008. The bill supported a collaboration between farmers and schools. Carrie received her Masters in Art Education at the Corcoran School of Art and has featured environmental themes in much of her art – including, “the Last Gasp” of a coral reef, “I don’t like what I Sea” featuring an angry sea turtle surrounded by plastic waste, a reliquary to coral, prints featuring pollinators and native butterflies, and work which brings attention to our carbon output. Her storm drain art of an enormous Maryland Crab, entitled “If it Goes this Way if Flows to the Bay”, was installed by volunteers under her direction in downtown Wheaton. She also enjoys hosting informational neighborhood gatherings for candidates running for elected office.
Prince George's Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 5)
Dan Sonnett
As a lifelong Prince George's County resident, I have witnessed firsthand how climate change and development affect our urban, suburban, and rural communities. This deep sense of place, combined with my 20+ years as a mission-driven digital marketing professional for organizations like PBS, World Wildlife Fund, and the Smithsonian Institution, has fueled my passion for environmental justice.
I plan to work with the Prince George's County ExCom to help translate complex environmental issues into compelling narratives that will expand our membership base and deepen community engagement. Through my participation in organizer and Outings Leader training provided by the Maryland Sierra Club and as District 23 Captain and Chapter Action Team member, I have developed an understanding of the Sierra Club's mission, goals, and operations at multiple levels. I am actively engaging with community members and Sierra Club partners through events ranging from trail talks and political rallies to legislative actions and local public events.
I believe my unique background would enable the PGSC to broaden its strategic storytelling, enhance member engagement, and develop advocacy messaging that creates space for more of the county's diverse residents. My goal is to enhance the effectiveness of the PGSC's digital and in-person communications to share our organization's goals, actions, and successes, as well as to invite connections with individuals and community groups aligned with our mission and objectives.
Antonio Hernandez
As an Executive Committee member, I would like to be more involved in local environmental, climate and EJ issues. I am seeking to understand how I can be a better informed citizen and use that knowledge to better my community. I currently work as the Digital Video Producer for Hip Hop Caucus. In my role I have completed short videos (educational, entertainment and a combination of the two), social media content, documentary and podcasts. I have also done some freelance work for MD LCV, Chispa, PG African American Museum and Cultural Center, and other local organizations. I am a Latino who was born and raised in the DMV. At my current age, 36, I am not a young candidate, but there's much to learn and much I can add to the team.
Gyasi Gomez
I am honored to be considered as a candidate for the Prince George’s County Sierra Club Executive Committee. As former Vice Mayor of the City of District Heights, I would like to bring the perspective of a public servant and to facilitate more intentional and strategic advocacy on policy and legislation proposed by the County Council on the environment. I also serve as a board member for Prince George’s County Community College’s Sustainable Workforce Development Program and Prince George’s County Public Schools Climate Action Plan. In these roles, I network with other elected officials, community/civic organizations, non-profits, schools, churches and businesses. As an executive committee member, my goal would be to use my network to serve as a connector for the chapter and facilitate a more holistic approach to advocacy for key policies and legislation at the County level that includes community partners.
While engaged in these roles, I’m often the youngest voice in the room. Representing the millennial perspective, I believe I can add much-needed input on issues and challenges that young adults are concerned with. Additionally, I truly believe in the power of “passing the torch”, meaning young people have much to learn, just as much as seasoned activists and organizers have to pass on. It’s critical to participate in a generational knowledge exchange. It makes all of us smarter and more equipped to handle the tremendous challenges ahead. Thank you for your consideration.
Makayla Bowen-Longino
From a young age, I have found myself to be moved by environmental issues. As a child, I remember falling for the emotional imagery of polar bears on icebergs and always trying to reduce, reuse, recycle. The draw I felt to nature was affirmed through the formal education that I received in high school and eventually college, where I studied Environmental Economics and learned about environmental issues and the policies and economics that surround them. Today, my environmentalism is quite a personal endeavor; I no longer consume meat and minimize waste, for example. While personal choices are important, I am now looking to broaden my impact.
I would love to be considered for a position on the Executive Committee. For the past year I have been working in the energy field and have dived into learning about the world of policy, regulation, and economics that allows the lights to turn on when we flip the switch. As a member of the Executive Committee, I would look forward to providing my perspective on energy related matters and would hope to lead related education on such matters to the public. Additionally, I have noticed a lack of engagement from Gen-Z for the PG Group, and would look forward to representing that perspective on the ExCom. Finally, I would be eager to learn from the many members who have great expertise in effective public engagement and who could guide me in how to best hone the passion that I feel for the environment.
Noah Emmanuel Waters, Ph.D.
As former Mayor of the Town of Eagle Harbor, I respectfully submit my candidacy for the Prince George's Executive Committee with a commitment to uphold and support the legacy and leadership of prior and current Executive Committee members. My advocacy will be rooted in collaboration, continuity, and respect for the foundational work that has shaped our progress.
I bring a unique blend of experience and vision to the Executive Committee. Having led one of Maryland’s historic waterfront towns, I understand the value of heritage and the potential of innovation. I propose leveraging heritage tourism as a strategic alternative to data center expansion—an approach that would preserve our cultural identity but also fosters sustainable economic growth, job creation, and increased revenue for Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland. Equally important is my dedication to inclusivity and environmental stewardship. I believe that every Marylander—regardless of ethnicity, age, region, or affiliation—deserves representation and a voice in shaping our future. My approach will prioritize environmental health and equity, ensuring that our policies reflect the diverse communities we serve. I am eager to contribute to a forward-thinking Executive Committee that honors tradition, embraces innovation, and champions diversity. Thank you for your consideration.
Linda Moore-Garoute
As a member of the Executive Committee, I intend to prioritize educational efforts that promote the responsible utilization of Earth's resources and encourage active involvement in initiatives dedicated to restoring both natural and human environments. Certified as a Climate Change Professional in 2020, I possess comprehensive experience in grant administration, sustainability consulting, and the implementation of community-focused environmental initiatives. My experience includes overseeing significant grants for stream restoration, flood risk reduction, and historic preservation, as well as holding academic appointments focused on workforce development and construction management. Previously, I served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of the District of Columbia, where I developed curricula and maintained high standards in environmentally focused education and professional advancement. My leadership experience—as an elected Sanitation Commissioner for the Historic Town of Eagle Harbor and as President and CEO of Cedar Haven Civic Association on the Patuxent River, Inc.—has provided me with comprehensive skills in executive leadership within non-profit and community organizations. My collaborative work across varied regional and professional networks has prepared me to foster inclusive engagement and cultivate cross-sector partnerships that address critical environmental issues. I am dedicated to amplifying underrepresented perspectives and leveraging my broad connections within Maryland’s environmental, educational, and civic sectors to ensure the Executive Committee remains adaptable to the evolving needs of all stakeholders. With a strategic and transparent approach, as well as a steadfast commitment to equitable outcomes, I am positioned to bring innovative insights and practical strategies that advance the Committee’s mission and vision.
Southern Maryland Group ExCom Candidates
(Group members vote for up to 6)
Ashley Richards
I would like to run for the Southern Maryland Sierra Club Executive Committee again. I am very passionate about our work to help connect people and nature. I love spending time outdoors and sharing that experience with others, and I’m deeply committed to protecting the planet. Serving on the Executive Committee provides me with more opportunities to get involved with our community and make a difference.
Jennifer Mikula
My name is Jennifer Mikula, and I am interested in serving on the Executive Committee of the Southern Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club.
The environment has always been important to me, and I want to work with our Southern Maryland community on projects that positively impact both people and nature, especially in areas like community gardens, biodiversity education, invasive plant removal, reducing plastic waste, and addressing habitat loss due to unchecked development.
My love of nature, academic background, Peace Corps service, and current role as an educator all make me a strong candidate for this committee. I’ve always turned to nature for both recreation and relaxation. I earned my undergraduate degree in Biology with a focus on Wildlife, and studied abroad in Ecuador, where I spent time in the Amazon, the Galápagos Islands, and other key conservation areas.
I served in Panama for nearly three years as a Community Environmental Conservation Volunteer with the Peace Corps. Since then, I’ve been a Spanish teacher at La Plata High School. I bring environmental knowledge, hands-on volunteer experience, and skills as an educator.
Southern Maryland’s diversity has deepened my understanding of building respectful relationships across cultural, socioeconomic and social differences. At school, I work with people from many backgrounds and reflect often on inclusivity and support. I also speak Spanish and am familiar with Hispanic culture.
I believe environmental education is critical in underserved communities, which are often the most impacted yet least resourced. I’d be honored to serve.
John Posey
My primary goal is to improve the quality of the environment, primarily locally within Southern Maryland but also on state, national, and global scales. Specifically, I would like to accomplish making the chapter more effective by supporting current club leadership. My effort has been in the areas of Tree and Garden teams and have started Outing Leader training. In the future, I would like to implement projects dealing with the rivers surrounding Southern Maryland as this has been the focus of my education and much of my career.
I have a varied set of skills and experiences that will benefit the Committee. I spent 5 years as a chemistry technician and sewage plant operator at Chalk Point Power Plant, 5 years as a data scientist at Chesapeake Bay Program Office (CSC contract to EPA), 5 years as a data scientist at Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, 3 years as a data scientist modeling fishery populations and 16 years as a data scientist and project manager at the Census Bureau. I have an AA in Estuarine Resource Technology, BS in Computer Science from UMUC, and a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from George Washington University. Enjoy working with my hands, and in 2022 built 10 bluebird boxes, 3 screech owl boxes, and a tabletop garden with wheelchair access. And most importantly, knowledge and love of Southern Maryland.
I would reflect diversity by proactively embracing people of all backgrounds and model behavior in adherence to Sierra Club policies.
Sandra Gwynn
These are tough times for environmentalists. People doubt scientific research about climate change, and they doubt the motivation of volunteers in the environmental movement. I would like to show people the great beauty of Southern Maryland and remind them why preserving land in its natural state and protecting our waters and the air we breathe is worth it. I would like to assist in combating climate change by advocating and lobbying for green/sustainable energy sources and environmentally friendly solutions for transportation, building materials, and food production. I would also like to assist the Sierra Club with its commitment to environmental justice.
I have been a member of the Southern Maryland Sierra Club’s Executive Committee since 2021, and have served as the Vice Chair, head of the Scholarship Committee, and currently Chair of the Executive Committee. With the Sierra Club, I have helped build raised garden beds; planted trees in county parks; led numerous outings in Calvert, Charles, and Saint Mary’s County parks; and lobbied local legislators on environmental legislation supported by the Maryland Sierra Club. I have represented the Southern Maryland Sierra Club at meetings for the Charles County Climate Action Plan and Saint Mary’s County’s land development plan, “St. Mary’s 2050: Charting Our Tomorrow project.”
I am sixty-two and would like to encourage older people to continue to enjoy and protect the environment. I am an advocate for women exploring and enjoying the outdoors.
Savannah Garren
I am eager to submit my nomination for the position of Executive Committee Member of the Southern Maryland Sierra Club, believing that my unique skills and experience can significantly contribute to the organization’s growth and success. As a member of the committee, I aim to expand the community we have cultivated and share knowledge about the Sierra Club’s initiatives with my generation and those to come. I also want to educate the community on how politics, policies, and procedures influence members both within and outside our group, as well as the future of our environment.
Currently, as an undergraduate studying environmental science with an emphasis on public policy, I seek a career aligned with the club’s mission. Having an executive member who understands current public policy processes—especially in this era of regulated federalism, where the current administration relies on Executive Orders and Memoranda to push specific policies—adds valuable diversity in age and expertise that can help us counter ongoing attacks on environmental protections and regulations.
With a deep passion for environmental advocacy, I am dedicated to fostering a well-informed community around these critical issues. My background in environmental studies, combined with my dedication to policy, will enable me to introduce new ideas and approaches to our efforts. I look forward to working with fellow committee members and engaging meaningfully with our community. Together, we can cultivate a diverse and inclusive organization that effectively addresses challenges and inspires future generations to continue protecting our environment. Thank you for considering my nomination.
Washington Group ExCom Candidates
There are no ExCom elections for the Washington County Group in 2025.
Print and Mail a Ballot
If you do not wish to vote online, you can print and mail a ballot. Choose your ballot below according to your Group membership:
- Anne Arundel County Group (Anne Arundel County)
- Catoctin Group (Frederick and Carroll Counties)
- Greater Baltimore Group (Baltimore City, Baltimore, and Harford Counties)
- Howard County Group (Howard County)
- Lower Eastern Shore Group (Worcester, Dorchester, Somerset, and Wicomico Counties)
- Montgomery County Group (Montgomery County)
- Prince George's County Group (Prince George’s County)
- Southern Maryland Group (Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s Counties)
- Washington Group (Washington County) No election this year
- Maryland Chapter only (no Local Group)