NYSERDA Climate Justice Fellow

Arielle Etienne (she/her) is a Climate Justice Fellow at the New York Climate Exchange. She works closely with The Exchange’s network of community partners, supports clean energy programming initiatives, and conducts research on relevant existing programs. Arielle has always had a passion for education, conservation, and sustainability. Prior to joining the New York Climate Exchange, she was a Discovery Guide at the Prospect Park Zoo for four years, teaching guests about conservation and animal lifestyles. She was also an intern in the Public Advocate's office in their Infrastructure and Environmental Justice department, where she drafted proposals for various environmental issues in New York City.

Following graduation, Arielle was a New York Urban Fellow, where she worked at the New York Fire Department in their Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In this position, she wrote a comprehensive report on the diverse history of the FDNY, highlighting significant milestones and contributions, conducted a detailed demographic analysis of training classes, and developed and implemented a community affairs action plan targeting fire-risk communities aimed at improving safety and engagement. Most recently, Arielle was a mentor at the Summer Energy Academy, where she led educational sessions on renewable energy principles, engaging high school students in hands-on learning experiences, and guided student projects in constructing model houses utilizing renewable energy solutions, fostering practical applications of classroom knowledge. Arielle graduated from Rollins College with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. Outside of work, she brings her passions and skills to her Girl Scout troop, where she is a proud alumna and leader of Junior Troop 2054.