2006 Legislative Knauss Fellows Reunion Sea Ranch, California August 2007
This is the true story of 10 strangers, picked every year to live in Congress and have their worlds turned upside down. Sucked into the vortex of Capitol Hill and spit back out the other side, they develop an understanding of what the policy world is like and are now armed with the experience and perspective to inform and move legislation with motivation grounded in science and strengthened by providing the right socioeconomic incentives. Yes, generations of past Knauss Sea Grant Fellows now give voice to environmental issues in federal and state government, at universities, and NGO's. They are also artists, poets, musicians, writers, and most importantly, friends. Thus, with mutual trust, there is open and honest communication. A simple recipe proven successful time and again.
So despite far too much depressing media coverage, I find reassuring hope for our future in the knowledge that caring individuals are working hard everyday to ensure things will be alright. And why do I believe it's possible? Because I'm one of them.. and Sea Grant Fellows aside, we're certainly not alone.
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Sheril - You all look like you are having lots of fun! Keep up the good work - but don't forget that there are also 30+ exec fellows who (although not on the Hill as much) also participate in policy development, interpretation, and execution ;)
Emily,
Execs are definitely included the mix! Knauss Fellows across branches of government include the brightest and most incredible individuals I've had the pleasure of working with.
You are an exciting group of people, dedicated, smart, and here for the common good. Thank you.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever does" -- Margaret Mead
I love that part of the coast and have camped there with my bike many times: Gualala, pygmy forest, and to the north the Lost Coast...sigh...
Best,
D
Sorry Margaret, "men go and come, but earth abides." -- George R. Stewart (Ecclesiastes)
"...people with deep personal commitments to a particular vision of the future are perfectly justified in struggling toward their goal, even if the outcome now seems remote and improbable." -- Marvin Harris
Ah the bittersweetness of sitting home waiting for the arrival of a next generation ocean-saver while my cohorts cavort on the rocks and beaches, feast on fruits-de-mer, get grains of sand embedded in their irises, and suffer through nauseating spider bites. It pleases me to know, however, that each year a new class of Knaussian fellows (leg and exec--fellows without borders!) are enlisted into Neptune's Army. Our Puck may yet have a beach to bring his or her kids to...