This award is presented to a graduate of the last fifteen years in recognition of outstanding achievement in profession, vocation, or avocation which exemplifies the liberal arts tradition of Wittenberg University.
When Michelle Miller Cohen was a child, she enjoyed visits to a wilderness center near her home. By high school she had made the connection between nature and people's actions. At Wittenberg, she regularly encouraged her housemates to recycle and since then has immersed herself in educating the public on environmental conservation.
Because of her dedication and passion for protecting the environment, Wittenberg recently bestowed on her its Outstanding Young Alumna Award during Homecoming 2006. Presented to a graduate of the last 15 years, the award recognizes outstanding achievement in profession, vocation or avocation that exemplifies the university's liberal arts tradition.
A self-described wastequeen, Cohen, who earned her M.S. in environmental science, with a concentration in hazardous material management, from the Indiana School of Public and Environmental Affairs in 1996, currently serves as executive director of the non-profit Indiana Recycling Coalition (IRC). Although the coalition has a board of directors, its staff numbers one - Cohen. Her majors in English and biology serve her well in the position as she writes grants and news releases, and initiates and develops programs on environmental issues.
Cohen, who previously directed the Brown County Solid Waste Management District in Nashville, Ind., also collaborates with numerous organizations to educate people in matters that safeguard the environment. She encourages integrated recycling, the buying of recycled-content products, the collection and remanufacturing of recyclable materials to conserve natural resources, and a decreased reliance on final disposal, among other conservation avenues.
"Lack of knowledge remains the biggest barrier to our program goals," Cohen said, adding that people are moved to action as they become aware of the real issues. "Don't shop on auto pilot," she said. "Become a conscious consumer."
IRC's latest project involves electronics' waste. Cohen stresses the need to find reputable recycling agencies to dispose of old cell phones, computers and other electronic equipment.
As for her recent return to campus to accept her award, Cohen called it a wonderful experience. She also encouraged Wittenberg to consider LEED Green Building Design for future projects.
"It pays for itself over the years."