In 2022, WE ACT for Environmental Justice launched the Cecil Corbin-Mark Fellowship for Environmental Justice Leadership as a unique opportunity for young people to continue to follow in our late Deputy Director Cecil’s footsteps, and to launch them on a career path to become the next generation of environmental justice leaders.

Cecil Corbin-Mark was the Deputy Director and Director of Policy Initiatives at WE ACT for Environmental Justice when he passed away on October 15, 2020 at the age of 51. He helped develop and pass numerous environmental health related bills in New York City and New York State, provided overall policy guidance to WE ACT’s New York program staff, managed WE ACT’s Federal Policy Office in Washington, DC and served as an informal mentor to aspiring environmental justice advocates across the country – a legacy which is celebrated today by the Cecil Corbin-Mark Fellowship program. 

Cecil was 25 years-old when he joined WE ACT, becoming the first paid staff person hired by the Harlem-based volunteer group when it became a formal nonprofit organization. Over the following 26 years, Cecil grew to be one of the leading figures in the environmental justice movement – both well-known and highly respected. He was also a life-long resident of Hamilton Heights in Harlem, New York, where his family has lived for six decades.

During this year-long fellowship, participants worked on WE ACT campaigns alongside seasoned environmental justice leaders. Fellows gained leadership experience in areas including environmental health, environmental justice policy, and community organizing. Fellows also received learning opportunities to strengthen their professional skills and deepen their understanding of the operations of a community-based advocacy organization.

Since you helped us launch this program, we’ve had two cohorts of Cecil Corbin-Mark fellows, a total of four fellows over two years. You can read about what the fellows have accomplished here on our blog. 

We are currently seeking our next cohort of fellows! If you or someone you know is interested in this opportunity, please view our posting here.

This fellowship would not have been made possible without the generosity of supporters like you. Will you honor Cecil’s legacy and help us build the next generation of environmental justice leaders by supporting the fellowship?

P.S. On April 20th, we will be honoring Cecil with a street naming ceremony and reception at 12:00pm. If you’re interested in attending, check it out here.