New Directions:
Introducing Patrizia Hironimus
Butte Environmental Council is heating up this summer under the leadership of our new Executive Director, Patrizia Hironimus.
Patrizia was born in Peru, and raised in occupied Kojomk’awi (Konkow) land in Northern California (also known as Oroville). She culminated her studies at UC Berkeley in 2002. Her thesis combined Clinical Psychology, Medical Anthropology, and Political Science, and she minored in the Practice of Art. Previously, she managed the office of Butte County Supervisor Debra Lucero, working with Butte County department heads, local community-based organizations, constituents, and stakeholders on policy for food sovereignty, water rights, and housing security, among other ecologically relevant activities. She also served on the Butte Fire Safe Council Board of Directors, and is active with the Butte County Local Food Network.
What values are you bringing with you to BEC?
I'm active in organizing for BIPOC equity and racial justice, and bring with me a foundation in trauma-informed therapy practices. I'm passionate about food sovereignty, mutual aid, and connecting community innovators.
What is your vision for BEC?
For 48 years, BEC has been a leader in environmental advocacy and action, and I hope to build on this legacy by establishing BEC as a regional leader in climate change education and action. Climate change requires solutions as large as the threat it poses. By working within a coalition of organizations, we can support one another's mission and secure a more equitable and sustainable future for all. I hope deepening our community partnerships will allow us to foster new approaches to climate resilience.
This summer, Patrizia and her pup Sassafras can be found surveying local aquifers or at the farmers markets connecting with certified producers about key issues like drought & wildfire relief. Patrizia and Sassafras look forward to meeting you at BEC's community events this summer!
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