Grace Payne Email and Phone Number

Year-long staff program for recently-graduated students involved in sustainability as an undergraduate involving all aspects of sustainability on a higher-education campus from large infrastructure projects to student mentorship and support. Key responsibilities included project creation and management, volunteer coordination, management of an organic demonstration garden, mentorship of student sustainability groups, supervision of student employees, event planning and execution, and administrative tasks. Main projects include developing and authoring the college’s Zero Waste Strategic Plan, writing a curriculum for the student Environmental Resident Program, revitalizing the organic Demonstration Garden, and creating a comprehensive digital filing system for the joint Climate Resilience Plan between the college and the City of Decatur.

Student role interacting with many aspects of sustainability along with creating and managing projects like the Raised Bed Program–a program that loans out raised garden beds to students at no cost. Advanced sustainability initiatives, maintained leadership role in student sustainability group, assisted with administrative and social media duties, supported work in garden spaces, and supported community engagement efforts.

Assisted with all of the organization’s programmatic efforts at their Callanwolde location that mainly focus on horticultural therapy for various groups including those with traumatic brain injuries or other disabilities. Assisted in the management of their greenhouse and garden spaces, taking on a wide variety of garden tasks. Began the establishment of a native plant and wildlife sanctuary.

Acted as an assistant building manager, maintaining a welcome environment for guests while providing information about the college and surrounding area. Answered questions, gave directions, managed phone and email inquiries, carried out building rounds, ensured that the building was kept clean and functioning. Used social media to foster cross-departmental engagement through creating a weekly social media series focused on sustainability tips for students, guiding students to practice sustainability at home.

Supervised and mentored rotating groups of 15 children aged 4-8, fostering positive relationships and promoting social growth and communication. Organized and led activities, encouraged curiosity and exploration, and effectively addressed behavioral and emotional issues.

Assisted with shop operations while focusing on product photography to increase engagement. Updated and maintained the website, assisted with inventory management, executed high-quality product photography, and provided exceptional customer service.

Studied various printing methods while assisting with shop operations. Greeted and assisted customers, operated printing equipment, prepared and packaged orders.