Lucas wins Leading by Example Award for environmental stewardship

Eric Friedman, director of the Leading by Example Program, presents Melissa Lucas, sustainability and energy manager, with a 2011 Leading by Example Award. With Lucas is her daughter Sydney.

Melissa Lucas, sustainability and energy manager, was awarded a Leading by Example (LBE) Award at a ceremony at the Massachusetts State House on Wednesday, Oct. 26. The LBE Awards recognize outstanding efforts among commonwealth agencies, public colleges and universities, and municipalities that have implemented policies and programs that have led to significant and measureable environmental and energy benefits.

Lucas was honored with a new award for individual achievement for being a champion for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. Of special note was her work developing the Growing Green website and newsletter, creating a mechanism for tracking projects and sharing best practices around sustainability projects, and planning the annual Earth Day event, which included more than 40 vendors. She was also cited for her efforts to make both new and existing buildings energy efficient and more sustainable.

“The several dozen 2011 nominations received by the Leading by Example Program offered a broad and impressive array of energy and environmental accomplishments. And while there were many exceptional applications, the selection process targeted applicants who exemplified true leadership and innovation in undertaking and successfully implementing key environmental initiatives—Melissa’s efforts surfaced as most deserving of this year’s award,” according to Eric Friedman, director of the Leading by Example Program.

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