As crisp fall nights inch closer, we’re saying goodbye and thank you to three people who excelled as a part of our seasonal summer team – volunteer interns Lillian, Celeste, and Anna. Often working behind the scenes, this talented team contributed their expertise, time, and exceptional attitudes to fostering a community of engaged and knowledgeable residents.
Lillian, Celeste, and Anna joined Environmental Services as volunteer interns in June, and their work shined throughout our summer events. Working together to identify local insects and plants, these three contributed to the display of more than 50 local specimen for our BioBlitz Booth. Additionally, this team spent many hours preparing and sharing information about plastic film and wrap recycling at Kroger in The Woodlands, engaging 235 residents in conversations about recycling more than just plastic bags at the store. This summer, our volunteer interns even got to explore a wastewater treatment plant with Woodlands Water. From educating at Plant for Pollinator booths to leading water labs about pollution, our fantastic team of volunteer interns has made a lasting impact for The Woodlands Township. Learn a bit more about these integral team members below.
Lillian Saucier
Lillian is an avid learner starting her first year of university at the College of William & Mary, where she is majoring in public policy with a minor in environmental studies. Outside of school, Lillian has been involved in many volunteer opportunities through the Township and The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., including Adopt-A-Path litter cleanups, storm drain marking, and being our beloved bee mascot for a Sunset Cinema screening of The Bee Movie.
Of her summer internship experience, Lillian says, “I highly recommend this internship to anyone who loves our beautiful home, the iNaturalist Seek app, funny people, and feeling like a real adult with a real job.” Thank you for your joyful spirit and willingness to try something new time after time this summer, Lillian!
Celeste Barahona
In everything she does, Celeste devotes her time and energy to exceeding standards and making the program better. As a rising senior, Celeste has set her sights on applying to colleges this school year. She serves as The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. student board advisor in addition to volunteering with the Bridging for Tomorrow food pantry. Celeste is also a part of her school’s National Honor Society and Christian Club. At the end of the summer, Celeste shared, “I feel my internship experience was enhanced when I was able interact with people at the grocery stores and when I got to hear from people who worked at the wastewater treatment facility… Getting insights into the ‘behind the scenes’ aspect and seeing the equipment/work in action is informative.” We appreciate your hard work and insightful ideas this summer!
Anna Harvey
Anna is a hardworking student involved in many volunteer opportunities. As a part of her school’s National Honor Society, Anna has volunteered at food banks, library events, and hand-me-up shops. Outside of school, Anna continues to immerse herself in nature with composting, gardening, and rock collecting. As a senior this year, Anna is looking forward to her last year with teachers and students she has worked with throughout high school before heading off to college. Anna reflected on her internship experience, noting that “attending the educational events and meeting people that were just as passionate as I was about the environment” was her favorite part. From diligent research to thoughtful conversations, Anna has served as a great asset to the team for Environmental Services.
