Natalie Lara

Worked as a Project Manager for the Climate Resilient Development Workshop Series. I was responsible for two workshops. The first workshop took place in January 2024, and focused on Climate Action Planning at the local level. The second workshop took place in February 2024, and focused on how local governments are aiding their communities in adapting to sea level rise.

Conducted research and wrote memoranda pertaining to a Sleepy Hollow Local Development Corporation’s redevelopment project, including issues related to park dedication requirements under the State’s Environmental Protection Fund, and advocacy for how the project benefits a surrounding underpriviledged community.

Assist in legal research regarding the process of hazard mitigation planning and looking at comprehensive adaptation plans. This experience has developed my understanding of how municipalities design their code of ordnances to account for natural resource protection in the face of natural disasters.

Research Assistant for Haub Distinguished Professor of International Law, Professor Smita Narula.

Summer Associate in the Environmental Transactions group.

Engaging in legal research, drafting legal memoranda, and assisting in analyzing complex legal issues as a judicial extern at the Southern District of New York. Demonstrating a commitment to the highest standards of legal professionalism and contributing to the efficient functioning of the federal judicial system.

I trained employees in best management practices for lawn maintenance and oversaw customer service. I also maintained organization of all files and sent bills, invoices, and proposals.

Reported on the intersection of environmental challenges and social justice issues. The project focus was the climate migration of Puerto Ricans to Orlando, FL after hurricanes Maria & Irma. I got to interview policymakers and policy advisers in addition to Puerto Ricans who were displaced. The most formative aspect of this experience was that it allowed me to see both sides of climate migration: those who make policies for migrants and the migrants who bear the impacts of those policies. The article is titled "From Puerto Rico to Central Florida: Environmental Disaster Threatens, Perpetuates Circular Migration," and can be found on the Thompsons Earth Institute website. https://express.adobe.com/page/D1DlePtgtnHUV/

During my time with Hispanic Latinx Affairs, I was an ambassador on the education team. This position allowed me to become proficient in Audacity, podcast recording, and audio editing. I would give tours to first time visitors, and manage the spaces located in the Reitz Union as well as La Casita. In addition, I helped organize the 2nd Latina Empowerment Symposium, an event created to help all women of color remember how powerful they are. Attendees and speakers came from around the world, as this event was held virtually and continues to happen every year at the University of Florida. Being an ambassador also strengthened my public speaking and advocacy skills, as it was part of my job to ensure that every student on the UF campus felt welcomed and had an inclusive environment where they could further their education.

Created lesson plans for an after school program in low-income housing community regarding sustainability.

JD, Magna Cum Laude Advanced Certificate in Environmental Law Bohn Vergari Public Service Award for Best Environmental Law Student

Minor in Religion, Relevant Coursework: International Development Policy, Natural Resource Economics, Agricultural Ecology, and Environmental Ethics