In August, the USGBC Northern California Women in Green (WIG) committee organized a special summer program to in keeping with our theme of the “Rising Collective.” To celebrate our women leaders in the green building movement, we welcomed 25 inspiring USGBC Women in Green to join us in recognizing the LEED Gold Salesforce Transit Center.
We gathered in the refreshing atmosphere of Salesforce Park, a 5.4-acre public park and green space right in the middle of the SoMa neighborhood in San Francisco. The park has over 230 species of understory plants and 50 species of trees, making the setting for WIG a true biophilic environment. In addition to being an example of sustainability, the park provides a refreshing break from the day in downtown San Francisco and contributes to public health via its abundant green space, seating and an amphitheatre.
Women leaders sharing ideas
The event began with a special address by our host Nila Gonzales, chief of staff for the Transbay Joint Powers Authority and a San Francisco native who has devoted her career to serving the city. Her address was followed by our featured speakers, Pam Brandon, MEng, PE, SE, recently appointed the first female partner at AlfaTech group, and Susan Orlandi, principal and California regional workplace leader at DLR Group.
As women leaders in the industry, our speakers shared their insights on how we can strengthen togetherness, influence collective impact and provide opportunities for other women. Liesl Heil Morell, chair of the USGBC Northern California Women in Green Committee, moderated the event. This was followed with group discussions led by our Women in Green speakers and volunteer leaders, Payal Vora and Emily Alvarez.
https://www.usgbc.org/articles/women-green-rising-collective-northern-california
