Virtual Events

Appalachian Leaders Network hosts regular virtual events and webinars to keep local, tribal, and state elected officials informed of climate and democracy issues and policies that affect Appalachian communities. See below for our upcoming events and information on how to participate.

UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENTS:

Click here to download the flyer

Irma Esparza Diggs is Senior Executive and Director, Federal Advocacy at National League of Cities and a distinguished leader in political affairs with a proven track record of shaping impactful public policy. As the Senior Executive and Director of Federal Advocacy for the National League of Cities (NLC), Irma spearheads grassroots and lobbying efforts that have delivered transformative results for cities, towns, and villages nationwide. Under her leadership, NLC secured $150 billion in direct federal assistance for local governments through the American Rescue Plan Act, ensuring critical resources reached communities in need. She also played a pivotal role in advocating for the bipartisan infrastructure law, unlocking an unprecedented $500 billion in federal funding for municipal projects. Beyond advocacy, Irma has championed educational initiatives that empower city leaders to navigate complex policy challenges and maximize federal opportunities.

Edward Yim is Director of Clean Energy with Lawyers for Good Government’s Climate Change and Environmental Justice Program. Edward has served in all levels of government as policy expert, thought leader, and legal counsel on clean energy and resilient infrastructure, and he has worked in the nonprofit and private sectors with energy companies and public utilities. As an energy policy advisor for the District of Columbia government, Edward led the development of its innovative climate action & energy plan, the citywide electrification roadmap, the first Solar for All program, and grid modernization strategies including non-wires and non-pipe alternatives.  Recently, he helped implement the IRA Home Energy Rebates at the US Department of Energy, after serving as Director of State and Utility Policy at the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.

about our moderator:

Emma Pinter is a strategic, collaborative, and compassionate leader with a proven track record of delivering results on community priorities. After serving two terms on the Westminster City Council (starting in 2013), Emma became the youngest woman ever to be elected to the Adams County Commission in 2018. She served as the Board chair of Board in 2024 and also in 2020 during her first term. Before starting her career in public service, Emma worked as a Community Engagement Leader at Thrivent Financial, and volunteer legal aid attorney which helped prepare her with both a robust economic and service-leadership background. She currently serves as President for Colorado Communities for Climate Action.

PREVIOUS VIRTUAL EVENTS:

Defending Federal Climate Investments and Environmental Protections
Center for American Progress Energy and Environment Senior Fellow Mark Haggerty, Lawyers for Good Government VP for Climate Change and Environmental Justice Jillian Blanchard, and Environmental Protection Network Senior Advisor Jeremy Symons discuss the risks facing federal climate investments and environmental protections, and what local, tribal, and state elected officials can do to defend them. Download the flyer.

2024 Election Analysis and Strategies for Conservation, Climate, and Democracy
Southwest Energy Efficiency Project Executive Director Elise Jones, Earthworks Policy Director Lauren Pagel, Montana State Representative-elect, and Defiance County, Ohio, Board of Elections Director Tonya Wichman discuss how they are preparing to defend our elections and advance climate initiatives. Download the flyer.

Democracy is on the Ballot: Safeguarding Election Security and Preparing for Election-Related Violence
New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver and Pima County, Arizona, Recorder Gabriella Cázares-Kelly discuss how officials can champion democracy, prepare their communities for a safe and secure election, and work with state leaders for support. Download the flyer.

Democracy is on the Ballot: Promoting a Safe, Secure Election in 2024
Pima County, Arizona, Elections Director Constance Hargrove and Defiance County, Ohio, Board of Elections Director Tonya Wichman shared best practices, resources, and ideas to ensure a successful 2024 election. Download the flyer.