Throwback Thursday: 20 Years at EDF
Well, it’s official: I have worked at EDF for a generation. OK, maybe not in the literal sense but 20 years constitutes a biological generation, so I think it counts. And in today’s workforce, where people tend to switch employers every couple of years, maybe even more so.
Last night someone asked if I liked being at EDF. I said I’ve been with the organization for 20 years and he rightfully noted that I hadn’t answered the question. Given another opportunity I replied: I make this choice every day, and so far, it’s the right one. Let me explain...
I’m in the privileged position of getting to choose my professional circumstances. And I consider and reevaluate that choice every day, because professional privilege comes with real responsibility. I need to be confident I'm doing the most good with my time in the workforce. And EDF has consistently checked all the boxes.
Over the past 20 years, I've contributed to remarkable and tangible improvements for people and the planet. I’m so proud of our work raising awareness on the urgency of addressing methane pollution to slow global warming; how we’ve used science to bridge difficult geopolitical boundaries and partisan divides; how we’ve shaped the climate and sustainability imperative for companies large and small so that climate action makes business sense. I’m personally thankful for the opportunity I had working with colleagues and partners to transform U.S. fisheries from collapse to amongst the best managed in the world, improving livelihoods and ocean health. EDF has established a powerful global platform that delivers results, and I get to cultivate and contribute to its effectiveness every day.
But impact isn't the only reason I stay. Two other factors weigh in my choice: people and support. EDFers often tell me they came for the mission and stay for the people. And I would say the same. I have so much joy and satisfaction being around my colleagues—some of the smartest, most creative, caring, and committed people I've had the pleasure to know. What you want more than anything when leading an organization is to know you can rely on your closest colleagues to have excellent judgement in head and heart. EDF certainly checks that box.
But the past 20 years haven't always been easy, I got married, had two kids, expanded to a 3-generation family in one residence. And most notably, suffered through diagnosis and treatment of my daughter’s rare brain cancer, and the aftermath of chemotherapy in an infant’s brain. EDF and its people supported me and my family at every step of that unimaginable path. When the going gets tough, you want to know that your employer has your back. Third—and potentially most important—box ticked.
I won't claim EDF is without challenges and warts. But the wisdom from 20 years of challenges and opportunities shows you what matters most.
Thank you to my EDF friends and colleagues for making this a journey to remember.