Sophia Colby, a recent graduate of George Mason University, participated in the Rachel Carson Council’s National Environmental Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, where she met with federal lawmakers to discuss climate legislation and community resilience, according to a May 29 announcement. Colby, who earned her BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies in 2026, said the experience allowed her to apply the analytical and communication skills she developed at George Mason.
“When I first came to George Mason, I was interested in studying law, but I decided to concentrate specifically on environmental law and policy,” Colby said. “My coursework helped me understand how policy decisions affect both ecosystems and communities, and that gave me the confidence to speak about real legislation with lawmakers.”
Colby credited courses such as Introduction to Environmental Policy (EVPP 361), Intermediate Environmental Policy (EVPP 362), and Energy Policy (EVPP 432) for preparing her to evaluate complex legislation. She described how case-study assignments enabled her to examine existing laws, identify gaps, and propose solutions for environmental challenges. “My professors showed us how to examine real legislation and policy initiatives related to climate change and other environmental topics,” Colby said. “The case study format made me much more comfortable articulating what policy changes are needed and explaining both the human and environmental stakes involved.”
During her visit on Capitol Hill, Colby discussed bills including the Opportunities in Organic Act and Polluters Pay Climate Fund Act with Sen. Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland, Rep. Sarah Elfreth of Maryland, and Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina. She also raised concerns about wood pelletization along the East Coast: “Wood pelletization is a complicated and unsustainable process, particularly along the East Coast,” Colby said.
Colby’s preparation included an internship with the U.S. Geological Survey, where she analyzed species range shifts as part of climate research efforts. She also presented research at the Midwest Political Science Association Annual Conference held in Chicago in April 2026.
Her faculty mentor, Younsung Kim, said: “[These skills] will help her become an environmental advocate who does not create conflicts, but instead brings peaceful and constructive resolutions to them…I believe she will be a strong force for environmental policy and sustainability as well as a future leader in the field.”
Colby participated in Alpha Kappa Chi fraternity focused on professional development around sustainability issues during her time at George Mason University’s Honors College program.
Reflecting on Advocacy Day experiences—which included workshops alongside direct engagement with Congress—Colby emphasized: “Communication is a big part of advocacy and climate resilience.” Looking ahead toward a career addressing disproportionate impacts of policies on marginalized communities, she added: “Getting involved in this kind of work is powerful and eye-opening…Knowing how environmental policy impacts communities really motivates people.”
