Press Room |
CT League of Conservation Voters Announces 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards Honorees11/15/2024
New London, CT — The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards, celebrating four extraordinary leaders whose work has advanced environmental protection, sustainable development, and resource stewardship across Connecticut. This year’s honorees are Marissa Paslick Gillett, Ulysses Hammond, Tribal Councilor John Harris, and Amy Blaymore Paterson. Each honoree’s accomplishments reflect their commitment to creating a sustainable future for the state. Marissa Paslick Gillett, Chair of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), is awarded the Environmental Public Service Award for her steadfast leadership in balancing the needs of consumers with Connecticut’s transition to clean energy. Since being appointed by Governor Lamont in 2019, Gillett has worked tirelessly to ensure that utility ratepayers are protected while also embracing steps toward reducing carbon emissions. Her careful oversight and commitment to regulatory transparency have helped steer Connecticut’s energy policies in the right direction. Ulysses Hammond is the recipient of this year’s Environmental Legacy Award for his leadership as Interim Executive Director of the Connecticut Port Authority. During his tenure, Hammond oversaw the successful transformation of the Port of New London into a state-of-the-art hub for assembling and staging wind turbines. His efforts to streamline operations and complete the state pier project have left a lasting impact on the region's clean energy future. Recently retired, Hammond’s vision and dedication continue to inspire progress in renewable energy development. Mohegan Tribal Councilor John Harris will receive the Community Impact Award for his dedication to advancing sustainability within the Mohegan Tribe. Mohegan has recently launched a comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance program, incorporating carbon neutral power generation, electric vehicle initiatives, and eco-friendly community programs. Councilor Harris has been a strong advocate for environmental responsibility, reflecting Mohegan’s commitment to creating a healthier environment for present and future generations. His efforts underscore the importance of sustainability across tribal and local communities in Connecticut. Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC), is awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her admirable impact on land stewardship and conservation efforts statewide. Paterson has strengthened Connecticut’s land trust community, advocated tirelessly for natural resource protection, and expanded conservation efforts through strategic partnerships. Her leadership has fortified CLCC’s mission to protect Connecticut’s landscapes for future generations, safeguarding the state’s natural resources from overdevelopment. These honorees exemplify the spirit of environmental stewardship and serve as models for others committed to a sustainable future in Connecticut. For tickets and additional event information, please visit CTLCV’s website here. ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a non-partisan, statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV.  Hartford, CT - The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is pleased to announce a promotion and a new hiring: Connor Yakaitis has been promoted to Deputy Director, and Gracie Pope joins as the new Communications Manager. These personnel updates reflect CTLCV’s dedication to strengthening its advocacy for a sustainable future in Connecticut.
Connor Yakaitis, who previously served as CTLCV’s Development Coordinator and then Development Director for the past five years, will step into the role of Deputy Director, advancing CTLCV’s strategic goals and overseeing major legislative initiatives. Known for his leadership on coastal priorities, including offshore wind, Connor has been instrumental in expanding CTLCV’s influence across Connecticut. In his new role, he’ll continue championing these vital issues and take on new initiatives to drive environmental progress statewide.
“Connor’s ability to form meaningful relationships and his dedication to sustainability and coastal resilience make him a critical asset to our team,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of CTLCV. “We look forward to his continued impact as he leads efforts to further our advocacy.” Additionally, Gracie Pope joins as Communications Manager, where she will lead CTLCV’s communications strategy. With a background in technical writing and public relations, Gracie is adept at conveying complex topics clearly and concisely. Passionate about environmental advocacy, she looks forward to raising awareness and fostering meaningful discussions around CTLCV’s work in Connecticut. “We’re excited to welcome Gracie to the team,” said Mike Urgo, President of CTLCV. “Her focus on creating engaging, relatable content brings a fresh perspective that will help us connect more meaningfully with supporters of all ages.” ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a non-partisan, statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV. RELEASE: In Contrast to Federal Elections, Big Wins for Connecticut’s Pro-Environment Candidates11/8/2024
Hartford, CT – The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) celebrates the major victories achieved by CTLCV-endorsed candidates across Connecticut in this election cycle. Given that state-level victories have never been more important, these successful campaigns highlight the continued support for environmental protections in Connecticut.
The election of Donald Trump is deeply alarming, as his past actions and statements have consistently undermined climate progress and environmental protections. President-elect Trump has called climate change a 'hoax,' rolled back key provisions of the Clean Air Act, and removed the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, jeopardizing international commitments to curb emissions. He has vowed to 'gut' the EPA, stop offshore wind development, and rescind critical clean energy funding, despite the clear economic and environmental benefits. In light of these extreme priorities, it will be a priority for CTLCV to block efforts that would reverse clean energy progress and/or withhold federal funding to Connecticut. State-level actions are now critical for the progress of environmental and democracy protections. The health, economy, and future of Connecticut’s communities will depend on state action to combat these federal threats to a sustainable future. That path forward relies on strong state leadership, making the success of CTLCV’s endorsed candidates that much more important. Over 80% of CTLCV-endorsed candidates won their races (a total of 56), with several key victories in competitive districts and tight races. One Senate seat and five House seats were flipped from anti-environment incumbents to committed environmental advocates. The next two legislative sessions will be critical for shoring up Connecticut’s environmental protections, and this growing group of pro-environment legislators is a big win. “This election has shown that having candidates who care about the environment is important for Connecticut voters,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of CTLCV. “Unfortunately, with Trump’s return to power, we face severe threats to both our environment and environmental justice, from rollbacks of crucial protections to continued backing of gas and oil interests. These policies will disproportionately harm our most vulnerable communities. In Connecticut, efforts to advance climate action and ensure a sustainable, just future are more urgent than ever.” Notable Pro-Environment Victories CTLCV is proud to highlight these significant wins: Paul Honig in Senate District 8 Nick Menapace in House District 37 Nick Gauthier in House District 38 Jaime Foster in House District 57 MJ Shannon in House District 117 Kaitlyn Shake in House District 120 Ken Gucker in House District 138 Additionally, CTLCV is encouraged by the passage of the Absentee Voting Referendum, a step forward in a more equitable voting process. This victory ensures that Connecticut voters have expanded opportunities to engage in democracy, especially during times of climate-related disruptions. Acknowledging Losses There were several key losses for CTLCV-endorsed candidates this year, with one of the most disappointing outcomes being the race in Senate District 36 between Nick Simmons and incumbent Ryan Fazio. Throughout the campaign, CTLCV highlighted Sen. Fazio’s harmful stance on fossil fuels and his consistent opposition to renewable energy and coastal resilience efforts. During his time in office, Fazio has repeatedly voted against critical environmental legislation. His Environmental Scorecard rating for the most recent legislative session was a dismal 25%. While Simmons fell short in his bid, the responsibility now lies with Fazio’s constituents to hold him accountable for his record and ensure their voices are heard on environmental issues. In addition to this loss, the loss of incumbent Rep. Rachel Khanna of House District 149 is disappointing. She was a strong environmental advocate, specifically working on protections for Connecticut’s air and water. Looking Ahead to 2025 Looking ahead to the upcoming legislative session, CTLCV is preparing to work with a growing group of pro-environment legislators to advance key policies that address climate change, protect public lands, expand clean energy, reduce chemicals in Connecticut’s waterways, and progress environmental justice efforts. The next legislative session will be a pivotal moment for Connecticut’s environment, and CTLCV is ready to take on this work with renewed commitment and determination. Supporting these legislative champions and holding all lawmakers accountable is now more important than ever. For the full list of successful endorsed candidates, please visit CTLCV’s website here. ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a nonpartisan statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. CTLCV endorses and supports pro-environment candidates for CT State House and Senate, and Statewide elected offices. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
December 2024
Categories |
RSS Feed