How did it feel to participate in the summit?

"There was nothing like it. It was indescribable, and easily one of the things I'm proudest to be a part of in my life. Watching all of our conversations and discussions come to life was surreal, and seeing the impact it made, and continues to make is even more amazing. Despite having certain effects we hoped to have on the students in mind, there were so many more that I couldn't have even predicted. From mentorships, to inspiration, to creativity, to friendships, including some of my own, the summit ended up being so much more than a learning experience for people, and I'm so honored I got to be a part of making it happen."

"I met so many inspiring people from diverse backgrounds from students eager to advocate for a community garden at their CPS school, to a member of a Chicago education board who said he planned to use the Climate Education Hub in classrooms after learning about it in a breakout session. These conversations reminded me how far the summit’s impact can reach.

All in all, I believe this summit made a meaningful difference for Chicago and set the stage for a cleaner, more hopeful future. I hope participants walked away feeling energized and ready to continue the movement, knowing that while climate change is a major challenge, it’s essential to celebrate small wins. Every contribution matters, whether big or small."

In what ways do think this summit impacts Chicago?

"The Summit affirms not only our commitment to climate action, but the commitment of young people, for we and our progeny will be most drastically affected. Also, Chicago and the communities around it will be made a better place by us taking the actions that we planned here."

What do you hope participants take away from the summit experience?

"I hope participants have a renewed sense of capability, hope, and knowledge, as well as a good plan for how they can help going forward."