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Sarah Dooling

Executive Director at Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN)

Professional Background

Sarah Dooling is an accomplished advocate for climate action and urban planning, currently serving as the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN). In this vital role, Sarah leads efforts to facilitate impactful municipal and state-level policy changes through grassroots organizing. Her focus is on empowering local chapters, enhancing communication, and promoting town-level projects that not only combat climate change but also improve community resilience. By prioritizing the cultivation of coalitions that encompass energy, affordable housing, and labor advocates, Sarah is committed to steering a green and equitable recovery for all.

Before joining MCAN, Sarah co-founded LivingCityATX, an organization dedicated to fostering sustainable urban development through innovative design and community engagement. Her deep passion for urban ecology and sustainable practices has seen her wear many hats in her professional journey, including serving as a consultant at Urban Ecology Futures, where she advised organizations on best practices in urban planning and ecological sustainability.

Additionally, Sarah held the position of Director of Research at TreeFolks, where she led initiatives that aligned urban forestry with community development objectives. As the founder of Urban Ecology Futures, she actively contributed to shaping policies that promote sustainable cities and improved urban living conditions. Sarah’s expert knowledge and hands-on experience culminated in her role as a professor of Urban Ecology at the University of Texas at Austin, where she educated budding professionals in the complexities of urban design and environmental stewardship.

Education and Achievements

Sarah Dooling holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Urban Design and Planning from the University of Washington, where she earned distinction as a National Science Foundation IGERT Urban Ecology Fellow. This prestigious fellowship underscored her commitment to advancing knowledge in sustainable urban environments and provided her with the tools needed to effect significant change within the field of urban ecology.

Throughout her educational journey and subsequent career, Sarah has been at the forefront of fostering environmental awareness and community engagement initiatives. Her extensive academic background equips her with a robust understanding of ecological systems, urban dynamics, and the socio-political elements that influence urban development.

Notable Achievements

  • Leadership in Climate Advocacy: As ED of MCAN, Sarah has been instrumental in driving grassroots movements that lead to impactful climate policy. Her efforts are pivotal in reducing pollution and development time for essential projects, making a tangible difference at both the municipal and state levels.
  • Establishment of Key Organizations: Sarah's foresight and dedication to sustainable urban practices led to the establishment of LivingCityATX and Urban Ecology Futures, which continue to influence urban planning and environmental sustainability efforts in significant ways.
  • Academic Contributions: As a former professor, Sarah has shaped the curriculum around Urban Ecology at the University of Texas Austin, helping to prepare the next generation of leaders in urban design and policy.
  • Collaborative Partnerships: By nurturing coalitions that span various advocacy areas, including energy and labor, Sarah has demonstrated her strong commitment to tackling climate change and ensuring equitable outcomes for all communities. Her ability to bring diverse stakeholders together is a testament to her leadership skills and vision.

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Sarah Dooling
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Location

Waltham, Massachusetts, United States