Tod J. LeFevre Sustainability Champion Award winners announced

 Individual Category: Jules Burton

Jules Burton, an environmental science professor at Columbia Gorge Community College, not only teaches about sustainability but lives it daily. Her dedication to the environment goes beyond the classroom as she actively involves her students in community projects that promote sustainability. Jules has previously served on the Board of Directors at the Gorge Rebuild It Center and continues to volunteer, often encouraging her stu-dents to participate as well.

One recent standout project that Jules led was creating a unique, sustainable landscaping installation outside the Gorge Rebuild It Center. She designed it to be both functional and artistic, creatively using some of our materials to make a vibrant, eco-friendly space. It’s not just landscaping—it’s an art installation that truly reflects her innovative spirit.

Business Category: Hood River Pedicab

Hood River Pedicab is more than just a transportation service; it’s a creative, eco-friendly solution that redefines how we move through our com-munity. By offering a sustainable alternative to conventional transportation, Hood River Pedicab not only reduces carbon emissions but also encourages locals and visitors to think differently about their daily commutes and leisurely rides.

Built and operated by Matty Green, Hood River Pedicab exemplifies how a business can prioritize environmental responsibility while still being accessible and community-focused. Matty’s vision for the business stems from his lifelong dedication to environmental stewardship. With a master’s degree in botany from Oregon State University and over 25 years of experience in ecological restoration.

Through Hood River Pedicab, Matty has found a way to blend his love for the environment with practical, everyday solutions. His efforts to make sustainable transportation fun and viable demonstrate how businesses can actively participate in creating a greener future for the Gorge.

Student Category: Anson Pulk

At just eight years old, Anson founded Anson’s Bike Buddies, a nonprofit dedicated to repairing and giving away bikes to those in need. Now a high school senior, Anson continues to volunteer his time weekly, personally repairing bikes and distributing them throughout the community. The pro-gram saves around 200 bikes a year from ending up in landfills and provides car-free commuting solutions to people who need it most.

Through partnerships with organizations like Bridges to Change, Anson’s Bike Buddies has helped individuals by providing bikes for transportation to work and other essential needs. Anson has also made a significant impact on youth in the Gorge, particularly in communities like Parkdale and Odell, where many families are now able to get access to free or affordable bikes.