In advance of Earth Day, Elena Krueper, a senior at Elkhart High School and the director of the Youth Environmental Press Team (YEPT), has been named a Hoosier Resilience Hero by Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute (ERI).

Krueper is working with the mayor and city council of her hometown on a resolution that acknowledges the threat of climate change and pledges action. If adopted, the resolution would make Elkhart the eleventh city in the state to formally commit to climate action. Krueper’s work with local government stems from her concern for the environment, passion for journalism, and involvement with Earth Charter Indiana (ECI), a nonprofit committed to advancing sustainability and care for Indiana’s environment. In 2022, Krueper joined ECI’s YEPT, an initiative focused on elevating the environmental reporting of Indiana high school journalists. In 2023, she became YEPT’s director, ensuring the organization continues to fulfill its mission. As Krueper’s climate experience has grown so has her willingness share what she’s learned—with peers as well as attendees of ECI’s most recent Climate Leadership Summit. 

Hoosier Resilience Heroes are individuals and groups committed to ensuring a safe, healthy environment for their families, their neighbors and future generations. This year’s cohort includes professionals and volunteers dedicated to climate change, environmental justice, green infrastructure, and other aspects of environmental protection and resilience.

“Some of our heroes have been working to educate others and address longstanding environmental challenges for decades. Others have taken action more recently,” said ERI Managing Director Sarah Mincey. “They are all part of a growing network of Indiana sustainability champions who recognize our inextricable dependence on natural systems and who are rallying communities to make positive change. Thanks to these individuals, more Hoosiers recognize that a resilient future and a thriving environment go hand in hand.”

To learn more about ERI’s 2024 Hoosier Resilience Heroes go to: eri.iu.edu/heroes.

About the Environmental Resilience Institute:

Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute connects a broad coalition of government, business, nonprofit, and community leaders to help Indiana and the Midwest better prepare for the challenges of environmental change. Together, we integrate research, education, and community to create environmental resilience and climate solutions—building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future. Learn more at eri.iu.edu.