| Biography |
Hi!! I’m Lillian Shapona, a student at Santa Clara University double majoring in Environmental Studies and English with a focus on pre-law. I’m enormously passionate about environmental conservation and wildlife protection, and I’m committed to using my education and skills to make a positive impact! I received the Fr. Schmidt Foundation College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Academic Excellence Award, a full scholarship to support my studies. Before college, I graduated as Salutatorian from Mercy High School in Burlingame, where I was heavily involved in environmental advocacy and founded Mission Green for Blue—a nonprofit focused on the conservation and habitation of the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly.
My experience in the environmental field includes a marine science internship with Seaside Sustainability and an Environmental Science internship with Dr. Patricia Bradley. At Seaside, I conducted wildlife research, represented the organization at climate conferences, and worked on educational projects. With Dr. Bradley, I cared for and observed aquatic snails, fish, and plants while maintaining lab equipment and even got to teach a couple classes in her absence! I’ve also led the Coastal Club, organizing beach cleanups and marine conservation efforts in partnership with Pacific Beach Coalition.
Recently, I have been appointed president of the Santa Clara University chapter of Plant Futures Initiative, supporting plant-based futures for the welfare of animals and our environment! I’m also the published author of The Winds of Truth, a middle-grade fantasy novel, and I’m currently working on several other projects.
I have been an admirer of Jane Goodall all my life, and I dream of dedicating my life to the service of animals and our earth the way she has. Through all my amazing experiences, I’ve developed a deep understanding of environmental issues and the practical skills to address them, and I’m super excited to continue my work in conservation and sustainability!!
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