We are a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, whose intent is to support native plant conservation and restoration of native plant gathering traditions for Pacific Northwest tribes, Native American plant conservation and traditional cultural plant species
Sharing our voices through public comment letters and videos of our presentations is a sacred duty. It allows us to protect our ancestral lands, advocate for our rights, and preserve our cultural heritage. These actions are essential for ensuring our voices are heard and our traditions are passed down to future generations.
The Board of Directors and staff for the L.I.G.H.T. Foundation is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mrs. Amelia Marchand as the new Executive Director, effective Oct. 1, 2024. With over 27 years of experience in cultural and natural resource management, climate action, and food/water security working with Indigenous Peoples in the U.S. and Canada, Mrs. Marchand brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of leadership that aligns perfectly with our mission to support native plant conservation and restoration of native plant gathering traditions for Pacific Northwest Tribes.
Mrs. Marchand has held various leadership positions, most recently as former Tribal Climate Liaison to the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians and the Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. In that role, she served as a project co-lead alongside the University of Washington Climate Impacts Group and Washington Sea Grant, helping in the research design, implementation, and publication of the August 2024 report, Climate Adaptation Barriers and Needs Experienced by Northwest Coastal Tribes: Key Findings From Tribal Listening Sessions.
In June 2024, Mrs. Marchand was appointed by President Biden to the Advisory Council of Historic Preservation, where she serves as Chair of the Tribes and Indigenous Peoples Committee. She continues volunteer board service with the Center for World Indigenous Studies and on the Advisory Council for the Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture Across America Climate Change Curriculum Project. Her dedication to ethical and respectful cross-cultural communication, strategic and holistic nation-building, and the conservation of cultural ecologies make her an ideal fit to guide L.I.G.H.T. Foundation into its next chapter.
“Our organization is very fortunate to have the opportunity to gain such a driving force in the world of Indigenous climate advocacy, as well as a wealth of leadership experience she brings to our organization,” said Justin Williamson, Board Chairman for L.I.G.H.T. Foundation “We are excited to have Mrs. Marchand on board. Her passion for climate justice and Tribal relations on environment and her innovative approach will undoubtedly enhance our efforts and broaden our impact in the community.”
As Executive Director, Mrs. Marchand will lead operational management responsibilities, initiatives, strategic planning, fundraising, and program development. She is eager to engage with the community, partners, and staff to ensure that L.I.G.H.T. Foundation continues to thrive and make a meaningful difference.
Presentation to Gonzaga University's Center for Climate, Society, and the Environment
L.I.G.H.T. Foundation
P.O. Box 186, Elmer City, WA 99124
We are a Native led, 501 (c)(3) non-profit, whose intent is to support native plant conservation and restoration of native plant gathering traditions for Pacific Northwest tribes.
EIN: 87-3832254
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