2024 Harvard Community Conference

Arm in Arm and Harvard’s Climate Initiative Committee are delighted to co-sponsor this year’s Harvard Community Conference (HC2). The first HC2 event was held 7 years ago.  A Bromfield student approached Harvard’s inclusive community group, Arm in Arm, with her idea to start a yearly student-led event to explore the theme of embracing human diversity through stories, shared with community. The theme of the first conference was “Identity”. 

This year’s student conference will focus on stories and observations of climate change as seen through the eyes of local residents.  These stories will touch upon personal experience, thoughts, and feelings about climate change.  The student has gathered a great line-up of live speakers and recorded interviews which include: 

• Melissa Marteney (Harvard Resident): Melissa worked for 21 years at the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) where she observed the effects of climate change in many different aspects of recreational activities, conservation efforts and beach operations.
• Ellie Maglothlin: Ellie is a youth activist and Bromfield graduate.
• Adam Meier (Harvard Resident): Adam is a Green, Healthy, and Sustainable Products Director. He works across a network of leading affordable housing nonprofits to build and support healthy, vibrant, and sustainable communities for all.
• Marion Stoddart (Ayer Resident): Marion is an activist and community leader best known for her work leading up to the rescue and recovery of the Nashua River in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. She later founded the Nashua River Watershed Association.
• Charlotte Vallaeys (Harvard Resident): Charlotte is expert in all things organic at General Mills, one of the largest producers of certified packaged foods with brands including Annie’s, Cascadian Farm and Muir Glen.
• Paul Willard (Still River Resident): Paul is a well-known member of our community. Paul ran the Willard Farm and provided vegetable plants and summertime produce in Still River for the last several decades. He is especially known for his superior corn. Paul also served on the Town Conservation Commission and as the Harvard’s Animal Control Officer. 

Come! Gather with us to share these stories and browse the student and community art display.  Chat with local community organizations and be surprised by a presentation by 5th grade HES students.  

Enjoy some beverages, sweets, and time with your neighbors.