A Turning Point: From Student to Advocate at NC BREATHE

by Yahaira Galan Cruzes

As a student passionate about both environmental science and biology at Catawba College, I’ve always been interested in the connections between our planet and its inhabitants. However, it was attending the NC BREATHE Conference two years ago that truly helped me define my academic and career trajectory. That experience was a significant turning point, affirming my passions for both public health and environmental justice, and providing a clearer vision for my future.

For a long time, my interests felt like two completely separate paths: scientific research and grassroots advocacy. My background includes both conducting microbiological research on plastic degradation and participating in environmental justice programs like the Waterkeeper Alliance Clean Water Bootcamp. I’ve also gained experience leading sustainability outreach as a campus environmental steward. As a first-generation Mexican American, my multicultural experiences continuously inform my approach, driving me to promote inclusive and equitable solutions to environmental challenges, particularly those that disproportionately affect many communities.

Despite these varied experiences, I hadn’t seen the environmental and public health fields converge so directly until NC BREATHE. Witnessing professionals from both areas working together toward shared goals was a powerful experience. It was the first time I saw such clear interdisciplinary collaboration in action, solidifying my belief that a career at the intersection of medicine and environmental justice was not only possible but necessary. The conference provided inspiration and a practical roadmap for integrating my interests into a meaningful professional life dedicated to improving human and planetary health.

Now, as a Summer Associate with CleanAIRE NC, I’m supporting the NC BREATHE University Engagement Strategy. This role allows me to help extend that transformative experience to other students. I’m focusing on connecting colleges—particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and community colleges—with the upcoming 2025 NC BREATHE Conference this fall.

I am leading outreach to university departments and student organizations, focusing on the health impacts of air pollution, asthma, and climate-related heat exposure. Through social media campaigns, email communications, and student-led engagement, I aim to ensure more young people can engage with these vital topics, amplify student voices in environmental and public health conversations, and help cultivate the next generation of environmental health advocates.

Drawing on my communication skills, academic background, and lived experiences, I am motivated to connect more young people to this vital work and grow the next generation of environmental health advocates. I believe that by expanding access to NC BREATHE 2025, we can collectively strengthen resilience and work towards a healthier, more equitable future for everyone.