After Beyond Coal’s recent victory in securing a commitment from President McDavis to take Ohio University off coal in 2016, freshman Camille Scott is fueled to take her success to the nation’s capital this weekend.
Scott, who was directly involved in the negotiations regarding the Lausche Heating Plant, will be one of 20 OU students facilitating at Power Shift 2011.
“It’s all about the snowflake effect,” Scott said. “Teams (of 10 or 11 attendees) are coordinated by facilitators, who are all coordinated and assisted by coaches.”
The teams are part of the “breakout sessions” part of Power Shift. These sessions are designed to teach people about different issues and ways in which they can get programs started in their hometowns. Out of approximately 50 OU students heading to the capital, 20 will run sessions.
“This is a great opportunity to unite with other young activists around the nation,” sophomore Samantha Bailo said.
Scott is also looking forward to the networking opportunities Power Shift will provide.
“There will be hundreds of activists from Ohio alone, so we can coordinate, support and spread the news of the great work we’ve all been working on,” Scott said. “Personally, I’m hoping to highlight the work I’ve done with Beyond Coal.”
It was Scott’s work with Beyond Coal that led to her involvement with Power Shift. One week ago, Scott received a call from the Ohio Student Environmental Coalition, offering to pay her registration fee.
Most students, however, are paying their own way to Power Shift. A group of attendees has been fundraising on Court Street during the weekend, raising money to pay for transportation. Registration alone was $65 up until March 27, then costs jumped up to $80. Transportation and lodging also had to be considered.
Despite the price, OU students will have some of the strongest representation at Power Shift.
“I’m told we’re one of the only Ohio colleges to meet the goal,” Scott said. “With all the unrest all over the country, Power Shift seems like a great way to harness that energy into something constructive.”
Brandon LaBonte, an Athens resident, will be joining the caravan of OU students. LaBonte will be leading a workshop about food security, but he also said he’s looking forward to the gathering’s final day.
“Basically, there’s the breakout sessions, and the last day is a day of action,” LaBonte said. “It’s going to be awesome.”
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