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To start, what is your current role with the Surfrider Foundation?
I’m currently the Secretary for the Grand Strand Chapter.
When and why did you choose to get involved?
In the spring of 2024, I came across a Surfrider post that made me curious about whether my local chapter was still active. I had volunteered once in college and continued to follow Surfrider on social media, but I hadn’t seen much activity in a while.
I’ve always considered myself an ocean advocate, but the piece I was missing was an outlet and a community. Finding a way to connect with others who care deeply about protecting our ocean, waves, and beaches is what ultimately motivated me to get involved again.
What are some local environmental issues that you have witnessed?
Pollution is a major issue in my area; we didn’t earn the nickname “Dirty Myrtle” for nothing. When I worked as an ocean lifeguard, I found the amount of trash left behind on the beach truly appalling. Often it was accidental, wrappers caught by the wind or toys left behind during a sudden afternoon downpour, but other times it seemed intentional and I felt compelled to approach people in these cases. Surprisingly to me, many folks seemed genuinely confused when I’d ask them about it, as if they didn’t see anything wrong with their actions. That experience reinforced my belief that every beach cleanup matters and that every opportunity to educate is essential.
Additionally, there have been numerous rezoning requests to allow for more dense developments, often in areas previously designated as wetlands. I’ve been encouraged to see the community rally against these proposals and grateful for the support from Surfrider’s regional staff and policy experts, who have provided critical guidance and background information.
What Surfrider projects have you been involved with? How have these projects impacted your community?
Recently, a rezoning request in my neighborhood region of Burgess, SC was denied following strong community opposition; a clear example of collective advocacy making a real impact! I’ve also participated in beach cleanups throughout the Grand Strand, which spans over 60 miles of coastline. From the southernmost beaches to the northern end, these cleanups have helped protect our local environment while building a stronger sense of shared responsibility across the region.
Do you have any personal experiences or campaigns/issues where the social justice and environmental movements have intersected?
In my professional life, I work with individuals in offshore industries that are often the focus of environmental criticism. This has given me a valuable opportunity to build relationships with people whose livelihoods are directly tied to these industries.
What I’ve learned is that you don’t have to agree with every practice to respect the people involved. Humanity must always come first. Everyone has something to teach us, and meaningful progress requires empathy, dialogue, and mutual respect.
What can Surfrider do to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment?
I hope Surfrider can continue to approach every issue with humanity at the forefront. It’s important to remember that the people on the ground (or in the water!) are rarely the root of the problem. More often, the real challenges lie in policy decisions or gaps in education. Leading with understanding creates space for broader participation and more sustainable solutions.
What is the most important thing you tell others about Surfrider?
Being involved with Surfrider gives you the support to inspire real change not only locally, but regionally, and even nationally. With so many campaigns addressing different issues, there’s truly a place for everyone. But when you zoom out and look at all of this, you see very clearly that every effort ties back to Surfrider’s core mission of protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves, and beaches for all people. To me, that simplicity is powerful, and it paints one clear picture in my head every time — but I’ll let you paint your own!
What has been the highlight of your Surfrider experience?
Attending the national conference in Long Beach, CA last year was a highlight for many reasons, but one moment stood out in particular. On the very first night, I quite literally ran into one of my closest friends from college, someone I hadn’t seen since graduating.
Neither of us are super active on social media, so I hadn’t even realized he was involved with Surfrider since having moved all the way out to the Pacific, let alone that he’d be attending the conference! Reconnecting and experiencing the event together over the next few days made it especially meaningful.
Thanks so much Sarah! Is there anything else you would like to add?
While my initial motivation for joining Surfrider was entirely focused on serving my community, I’ve also found unexpected opportunities for personal growth through my involvement. For that, I’m deeply grateful.
