Mary Y Lee

Bio

Mary Lee is an undergraduate student at Stanford majoring in Earth Systems within the Human Development track and minoring in Political Science.

At Stanford University, Mary is a Research Assistant in the Deliberative Democracy Lab at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies. Her research includes conducting experiments and evaluations focused on citizen deliberation on the topic of the United Kingdom’s Economic Inequality. Mary is also a Research Assistant for the Natural Capital Project at Stanford Wood’s Institute for the Environment. Her current research focuses on studying literature about urban green spaces and how nature exposure (e.g., residential green space, park visits) in cities can improve both mental and physical health outcomes.

Outside of Stanford University, Mary is the CEO & Founder of ImpactZ, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating youth and community members on environmental education and stewardship. She enjoys working with schools and young students to build community gardens, create take-home planting kits, and learn about how to take care of the environment.

Mary has experience within policymaking and governmental operations through her numerous internship experiences with California Senator Dianne Feinstein’s Office, California State Assembly Member Mia Bonta’s Office, and Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf’s Office. During these internships, she has conducted research on state reforms, reviewed legislative case studies and proposals, and interacted with constituents throughout California to hear their opinions on short-term and long-term policies. Mary was also elected onto the Keep Oakland Beautiful Organization's Youth Advisory Board and worked in the Community Engagement and Events subcommittee to coordinate sustainability projects across the Bay Area.

Mary is drawn to environmental science and her work inspires others to understand the world through intentional practices and stewardship.