You’re never too young to start taking action for the environment! The Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers (CELC) network held their first in-person Youth Summit at the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston from July 24-27, 2024. Teens from across the country had the opportunity to hear from a range of speakers as they prepared to take on an environmental action project in their own community.
From experts on meteorology to climate journalism to marine biology and beyond, each speaker was personally invited by members of the summit’s Youth Planning Team and brought unique insight to share. Explore the infographic and individual quotes below for some inspiration and advice for those looking to take on their own project!
Check out this photo story on the 2024 CELC Youth Summit to learn more about activities from each day of the summit.
Individual quotes and speaker affiliations
T'NOYA THOMPSON //
Consultant at North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE)
"Always remember to balance realism with hope."
SHELLEY SHRADER //
Teen Programs Coordinator at South Carolina Aquarium
"Try new things and have grit."
KAYLA MLADINICH POOLE, PH.D. //
2024 Knauss Fellow at NOAA Office of Education
"Don't let people dismiss you! Be persistent."
KALEIGH BALLANTINE //
Communications Specialist & Graphic Designer at NOAA Office of Education
"Chase what excites you."
TIA CLARK //
Business Owner of Casual Crabbing with Tia
"Do it with joy."
JAMIE GONZÁLEZ //
Chair at North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE)
"Question assumptions, challenge systems, push on things."
JILL HENCK //
Clean Energy Program Director at Adirondack North Country Association
"There are endless options; if you don't like something, that's okay, try something else."
GREY GOWDER //
Executive Director at Carolina Ocean Alliance
"Spread hope and agency through community-driven solutions."
TOBY COX //
Rising Waters Reporter at The Post and Courier
"Perfection is not important, but always try your best."
JONAH CHESTER //
Rising Waters Reporter at The Post and Courier
"Storytelling is a critical component of discussing how climate change is affecting the world."
MARY EDNA FRASER //
Artist of Our Expanding Oceans
"It's so important to realize what one person or group of people can do in a lifetime."
SCOT PILIÉ //
Meteorologist at WGNO ABC26
"Stay prepared, not scared."
TAMARA BUTLER, PH.D. //
Executive Director at Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture & Associate Dean of Strategic Planning and Community Engagement at College of Charleston
"Speak up for what you believe in."
LIBERTY BOYD, PH.D. //
Content Creator of @libertyology & Postdoctoral Fellow at Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
"Find your 'why!'"
SEAN RUSSELL //
Director of Youth Engagement at EarthEcho International
"Youth aren't just future leaders — you're leaders today."