Everything about Mary Norman is green - a renewed life after personal tragedy, a job directing a community sustainability mission and a passion about the world's future resources.
In March 2008, Norman became administrative coordinator of Partnership for Sustainability, a joint effort of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the city of Springfield, Greene County, City Utilities and other area organizations. She's using her entrepreneurial experience, political contacts and a vast network of business and personal connections to move Springfield forward in sustainability.
"I was overwhelmed at what was out there, but also at the same time extremely excited to be able to recognize ... the interest that the community as a whole has in wanting to go green," Norman says.
Forming an advisory council was one of Norman's first steps as coordinator. The group comprises representatives from the three areas of sustainability: environmental, economic and social equity. The council also has identified three goals for the partnership: act as a clearinghouse of information; share best practices in sustainability; and focus on local and international resources available.
A current key project for Norman is the grant Springfield Public Schools received to develop sustainability programs in three pilot schools: Holland Elementary, the new Hickory Hills and Central High. Hickory Hills' involvement is especially exciting, she says, as the relocated school is seeking silver certification in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
Norman is familiar with change to facilitate survival. Life for her and her two daughters was ripped apart in 2001 when her husband was murdered in their home. It took four years before her brother-in-law was convicted, and in the interim, Norman and her girls grieved and rebuilt their lives as best they could. Now, she's giving back.
The Partnership for Sustainability is on the verge of fully rolling out www.greenozarks.org, its interactive and educational site providing resources and information for all ages.
The goal is a zero carbon footprint, and Norman says Springfield is moving that way. "People in our region really appreciate common sense," she says. "So much of what you do when you think in terms of sustainability is based on that good old-fashioned Ozarks common sense."[[In-content Ad]]
