From the president
Jocel Sánchez, a third-year anthropology major at the University of La Verne, is an engaged student in addressing climate change issues. Over the past two years, she has served as the President of the La Verne Ocean Movement Club, where she has worked closely with her peers to educate the campus community on switching from environmentally harmful products to more eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives. Her efforts have significantly impacted the environment, and Jocel inspires others to make conscious choices toward a greener future. She is currently working on a beach clean-up to encourage students to face the issue of plastic pollution head-on. Jocel models the kind of social justice advocacy that addresses systematic social and environmental barriers by actively working towards fairness, inclusion, and equity that reflects the University of La Verne values.
Personal Statement
As a Latina from the Coachella Valley, agriculture has always played a significant role in my community and upbringing. Most of the Latinx population in my hometown either works in the agriculture industry or has family members who do. This demographic has introduced me to the modern environmental issues that we face, as the agriculture industry and the Latinx community in the Coachella Valley are greatly affected by them. My background, community, and culture have fueled my passion for environmental conservation. My commitment to addressing climate change and the environment grew exponentially as a University of La Verne student. I was encouraged to advocate for the environment and inspire others to do the same. I became the President of the La Verne Ocean Movement Club, which allowed me to share with other students how small actions, such as swapping out environmentally damaging products for eco-friendly and sustainable items, can significantly impact the environment. I have hosted beach clean-ups to encourage students to face the issue of plastic pollution and held beautification events at local community gardens to teach students about sustainable food and its benefits to the environment. Advocating for our community is essential to address social change.