Meet CCPC's Sustainability Intern, Heather Jacobson
Posted April 22, 2024
As a student and soon-to-be-graduate of West Chester University, Heather's search for an internship relating to sustainability fit in perfectly with CCPC's new Sustainability Division.
"I have been fortunate to have Rachael Griffith as my mentor in this process, as she gives me a variety of projects with creative freedom and great feedback which has allowed me to gain a lot of perspective into my office and work abilities," Heather notes.
During her time at CCPC, Heather has worked on a number of projects such as the Homeowners Association Summary where she analyzed and presented the results from a recent survey; mapping of electric vehicle charging stations and the potential of electrifying county vehicles; compiling information and resources about sustainable practices for farmers; a resource on single use plastics relating to health effects and instituting single use plastic ban ordinances; and research on tree diseases and tree canopy cover, as well as urban centers. She also assisted the Water Resources Authority with a project on flood tools.
"I wanted to do something that was going to positively affect people. From what I can see, CCPC values the human experience and improving people's health in the form of planning," Heather said. "I have enjoyed my work as it has the goal of being useful for community members, as well as communicating with various committees and groups to present the work I helped to complete."
Heather is enjoying living in Downtown West Chester while she finishes out her degree, where she enjoys the charm of the town as well as the events. She is originally from San Jose, California.
In her spare time, Heather can often be found hiking, and a fun fact is that she can play the trumpet! Her favorite quote/life philosophy is "Stop and smell the roses," which she notes, "I try to live by this as best I can, to enjoy life and not let it pass me by."