ERIN BARNHART, Ph.D, Chief of Organizing, Advocacy & Learning (She/Her)

Erin has spent her career working with national and global nonprofit organizations to mobilize and engage people in meaningful, accessible ways. She is passionate about securing and sustaining justice and believes that every single person can have a significant impact through individual and collective action.

She grew up in rural Oregon and attended the University of Oregon, earning a B.A. in Geography. An AmeriCorps alum and Fulbright Scholarship recipient, she then earned a Graduate Certificate in Not-for-Profit Management and a Master of Public Administration from UO as well as a Ph.D. from Portland State University, where she studied community development and international civic engagement. Most recently, Erin served as the Chief Communications Officer for Our Children’s Trust where she led the communications, education, and engagement team to support youth who are bringing constitutional litigation to protect their human right to a safe climate.

Erin lives in Eugene, Oregon where she is active in local and state politics, participation, and advocacy. She recharges by spending time with her partner and caring for her native plant garden.