Caroljean (Cj) Willie is a dedicated environmental advocate and educator, bringing a wealth of experience to her role as program director at EarthConnection, a ministry of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati focused on learning and reflection about sustainable living. With a deep commitment to ecological sustainability, S. Cj has worked extensively across the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America, offering her expertise at regional, national, and international conferences. Her speaking engagements have also taken her to Africa and Asia, where she shares insights on environmental justice and sustainability.
Cj served two terms as the NGO representative at the United Nations for the Sisters of Charity Federation. In this role, she worked on global issues related to environmental sustainability and social justice. She now channels her passion into EarthConnection, where she develops educational programs, in-service workshops, and hands-on experiences for educators, students, and community members on a variety of environmental topics.
Her contributions extend beyond EarthConnection, as she actively participates in several environmental and sustainability initiatives, including the Archdiocese of Cincinnati’s Care for Creation Task Force, Faith Communities Go Green, Green Umbrella, Mount St. Joseph University Sustainability Committee, and Sisters of Earth. These collaborations allow her to integrate faith-based environmental advocacy with community action.
A strong advocate for youth education, S. Cj works closely with Girl Scouts throughout the Tri-state area, leading activities that help them earn badges related to environmental stewardship. EarthConnection offers an Earth Connection patch for young scouts who engage in sustainability learning, introducing them to concepts like geothermal and solar energy. Additional programs focus on outdoor art, gardening, and environmental awareness for different age levels.
Sister Cj’s commitment to ecological justice is also evident in her role as facilitator of the congregation’s Earth Justice Circle. Their work includes:
- Supporting recycling efforts at the Motherhouse and Mother Margaret Hall.
- Keeping community members informed about environmental legislation at local and national levels.
- Providing educational sessions on ecological degradation and Earth justice.
- Offering reflections and prayer services on environmental themes.
- Fostering dialogue with other justice circles to explore the intersectionality of social and environmental issues.
- Integrating eco-spirituality into various activities and programs.
Beyond her local work, S. Cj maintains an international presence through micro-financing partnerships in Africa, particularly in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. These projects, supported by the Sisters of Charity, provide her with firsthand knowledge of how climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities. Her experiences abroad allow her to bring a global perspective to her environmental advocacy in the U.S.
Cj embodies a life dedicated to environmental justice and education. Whether through grassroots community efforts, international collaborations, or policy advocacy, her work continues to inspire individuals and institutions to take meaningful steps toward a sustainable future.
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