DC EcoWomen Board Spotlight: Siena Henson

In the Board Spotlight series, we interview DC EcoWomen Board members, so you can get to know what they work on, issues they are passionate about, and what they like to do in their free time. In this Spotlight, we interview Siena Henson, who is on the Communications Team and works on the newsletter.

Siena's First Half Marathon

What inspired you to join the Board?  I was inspired to join the board because I wanted to find community with people who share my values and interests. This past year has been especially challenging for feminist and queer spaces, as well as for those who care deeply about the environment. I wanted to connect with new, interesting people while giving back to my community. At the time, my previous position was ending due to federal budget cuts, so I had the opportunity to dedicate myself to a creative pursuit like the newsletter. Can you describe your work with the board?  I serve on the communications team and primarily focus on the newsletter, which I send out every two weeks. It highlights upcoming events, blog posts and written pieces from our community, as well as job opportunities and grants. I really enjoy curating and sharing resources with the community—and I especially love closing each issue with a fun fact. How can community members contribute to this work?  If you have a job opportunity, grant, or collaborative event idea to share, please post it in the community listserv! And if you’d like to get involved with the newsletter itself, feel free to email me at siena@dc.ecowomen.org.  Which environmental issues are you most passionate about and why?  I’m passionate about the intersection of behavior, intention, and environmentalism. My academic background is in behavioral science, where I studied how to predict people’s climate and environmental actions—and how to encourage more sustainable choices. In particular, I care deeply about climate change and the question of how to mobilize meaningful individual and collective action to address it. What are your favorite green living tips?  One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t have to be perfect when it comes to green living. Small changes really do add up. For me, that has meant eating much less meat and making smaller portions to reduce food waste. What do you focus on in your day job?  I work as a Program Assistant at a climate nonprofit. In this role, I support grant tracking, prepare presentations and reports for philanthropic funders, and help my program team stay organized and efficient.

Siena's Happy Place: Crochet, Trivia and Friends

What are your favorite things to do outside work?  I love creating whenever I have the energy. With friends, I enjoy painting, making bracelets, crocheting, and appreciating others’ art and creativity. These practices help me stay present—but I also balance them with plenty of reality TV. Recently, my cats (Miso and Banjo) and I have gotten into Jersey Shore! I also just completed my first half-marathon. As tough as it was, I really love running outdoors and experiencing all the natural beauty DC has to offer.

Siena's Boys: Banjo (left) and Miso (right)

Do you have any favorite books or films that focus on environmental issues?  One of my favorites is Princess Mononoke by Studio Ghibli. I love the way it portrays industry, nature, and the need for balance and compromise between the two. Miyazaki films, in general, have some of the most breathtakingly animated landscapes and natural environments. How can people connect with you?  You can reach me via my EcoWomen email at siena@dc.ecowomen.org, my personal email at siena@bearcat.org, or on LinkedIn.