Central MA College Standout: Worcester State’s Phyllis Duff

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Susan Wagner, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

Phyllis Duff is ready to change Worcester's environmental consciousness in a big way.

Phyllis Duff does not think small. The 21-year-old is in the process of starting a climate movement in her hometown of Worcester. The founder of the Divestment Team at Worcester State University, the group is specifically working on divesting the university from fossil fuels. Duff is graduating in 2014 with a Natural Science major with a Concentration in Earth Science Education, Middle School.

SW: How have you taken a leadership role in school or the community?

PD: I have taken on a leadership role for the Divestment Team at WSU. I started this group back in October and what I am really trying to do is start a movement in Worcester. Our team is specifically working on divesting WSU from fossil fuels. There are about 15 to 20 students right now, and we meet weekly to discuss actions, plan rallies, read literature, and how we can all be involved with the national and global climate movement.

What activities are you involved with at WSU?

I am also involved with 350MA, Geography Honor Society and Tutoring Services at WSU.

Describe the career and/or future you envision for yourself.

Right now I am in school to be a middle school science teacher, so I envision myself in that career. I chose middle school because I think that is the time where students can really be influenced by powerful and passionate teachers. I really want to inspire children to love learning and impress upon them that education is power. I also aspire to be a prominent figure in the climate movement. I am hoping to continue my education in the sciences so that I can help create solutions for our future.

What do you enjoy in your free time?

Mainly because finals are right around the corner, I am enjoying sleeping on my free time! But mostly I enjoy crossfit or running when I have time. Exercise is such a positive distraction and stress reliever and right now it is one of the only things that keeps me sane day to day!

What or who has had the greatest influence on you to date? Why?

A few of my professors at Worcester State have had major impacts, and have influenced me to really become passionate about what I study and what the climate movement really means. Not only are they all incredibly knowledgeable in their field, but they are all truly amazing and gifted people. The Geography and Natural Science are the best departments at WSU hands down!

What is your favorite quote?

My favorite quote is also from my favorite book series, Harry Potter: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” – Albus Dumbledore

GoLocalWorcester presents Central MA College Standout, a weekly feature that profiles college and university students in Central MA. Join us every Tuesday for a look at the careers and lifestyles of today’s local college student. If you have suggestions for a College Standout profile, please email [email protected].

Susan Wagner is the president of Susan Wagner PR. In this challenging economy, she has begun a new division to offer affordable start-up packages to new and emerging small businesses and non-profit organizations that include professional writing services, websites, collateral, marketing, social media, grassroots outreach and PR campaigns.

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