Meet the New Executive Director of the Green Schools Campaign!

Meet Lily Morse, the New Executive Director of the Green Schools Campaign!

EarthPlex has interviewed many members of the Green Schools Campaign (GSC), and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about Lily Morse, the new Executive Director. We discussed a range of topics including her involvement in climate organizations and being a girl in the Boy Scouts program.

How did you first find out about the Green Schools Campaign?

I was virtually trained as a Climate Reality Leader in July 2020, and I met Simon and a few other people who were founding members of the Green Schools Campaign. I thought it was a great cause and reached out to get involved!

What is your role as the Executive Director of the Green Schools Campaign?

I basically think about and help implement the big picture: How can we grow? How can we keep people involved and working towards transitioning their school? How can we keep a positive and loving team environment? I work closely with all of the GSC directors to manage teams/projects/events and more. I also lead our bi-weekly all-team meetings, help give updates, answer any questions, connect different teams/team members, occasionally do interviews or provide press statements, etc…

How well do you get along with the rest of the team at GSC, and what traits do you look for in potential team members?

I think we all get along pretty well, and I am so grateful to have such a passionate and hard-working team! One main trait I look for in potential team members is proactiveness. I find it extremely valuable when people reach out and ask what they can do. This shows that they care, are passionate and invested in the GSC, and are good leaders who want to take action without being told what to do!

Are you involved in other climate organizations?

I am a Climate Reality Leader in the Climate Reality Project.

How do you balance your schoolwork with extracurricular activities, and how do you prioritize?

I am very motivated and passionate to do and participate in lots of activities; however, balance is honestly something I still really struggle with. I tend to get it all done but maybe at the expense of my sleep….

As one of the first females to become an Eagle Scout, what would you say to those who argue that Boy Scouts is for boys?

I used to argue with people a lot more, but I’ve just come to accept that Scouts BSA is my place and that it doesn’t matter what other people think because I am proud of who I am and my accomplishments. It definitely is frustrating, but I hope that in helping lead the way that others after me will have an easier time!

Which of your accomplishments are you most proud of?

I can’t exactly pinpoint it to one thing, but I love feeling the pride of making a difference, whether it be in climate activism, helping other Scouts like me, picking up trash on the trail, enjoying life and the beauty of the outdoors, or just helping a friend.

Do you plan on going into an environmental science field when you get older?

I am not currently sure… I would love to go into a STEM field, but I am not sure what specifically.

What advice would you give young people who want to become leaders or fight for what they are passionate about?

Find people like you! When I was younger, like many other kids, I knew I wanted to make a difference, but I didn’t know how. So my advice is to join groups, organizations, get involved with a club, and just find passionate people like you. The first group/organization you join might not be the one you stick with, and that’s ok, but explore and find the right people and place for you.