By Mary Tucker | Senior Communications and Content Manager | IAEE
In the world of public service and environmental advocacy, few individuals shine as brightly as Julie Pazina, CEM-AP. Julie has carved a remarkable path that intertwines legislative leadership, environmental conservation and community empowerment. Her journey from serving on the Nevada Conservation League’s Board to becoming a State Senator has been marked by a profound commitment to creating positive change.
Julie’s journey is anything but conventional. Before her election to the Nevada State Senate in 2022, she was already a powerful force in environmental conservation, serving on the Board of the Nevada Conservation League. Her role as Chair of the Senate Natural Resources in Nevada’s 82nd Legislative Session and Interim Joint Natural Resource Committee has elevated her from local advocate to state-level changemaker. Here, she tackles some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time: water conservation, wildfire management, urban greening, emissions reduction and wildlife protection.
But Julie’s impact extends far beyond policy chambers and committee rooms. She is a passionate educator and mentor, understanding that true change begins with inspiring the next generation. From speaking to elementary school students about the democratic process to mentoring high school students in the Nevada Youth Legislature, she cultivates civic engagement and environmental consciousness with remarkable dedication.
Her legislative efforts reflect a holistic approach to community well-being. The school gardens and hydroponics program she sponsored is a prime example – an initiative that goes beyond environmental education to support students’ emotional and physical health. This multi-layered thinking demonstrates her ability to see connections where others might see only isolated challenges.
The Environmental Defense Fund’s “Climate Champion Award” further underscores her significant contributions. It’s a recognition not just of her policy work, but of her ability to translate environmental goals into tangible, meaningful action.
Despite her numerous responsibilities and accolades, Pazina remains deeply connected to IAEE, continuously contributing and sharing her insights. Her story is a powerful reminder that effective leadership is about bridging gaps, nurturing potential and empowering others.
Julie’s passion for making a difference earned her the 2024 IAEE Humanitarian Award, which was presented to her this past December at Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Los Angeles, California.
We sat down with Julie to explore her motivations, achievements, and words of wisdom for upcoming movers and shakers in the industry.
Tell us more about the inspiration behind your initiative to create school gardens and hydroponics programs that aim to support young people’s well-being, and how these programs benefit students.
Julie: We now have school garden programs with STEAM curriculum in 400 schools across the state of Nevada. Not only do these programs get children outside and provide mental health benefits, but they teach financial literacy and entrepreneurism selling the vegetables grown in community farmers markets. Getting students outside of a traditional classroom, implementing a fun and interactive STEAM curriculum and improved mental health are just a few of the reasons that I champion school garden legislation.
As a recipient of the “Climate Champion Award” from the Environmental Defense Fund, what do you believe are the most critical steps our industry needs to take to address our sustainability challenges?
Julie: The events industry cares deeply about sustainability and is already making huge strides through LEED certifications, implementing Green initiatives and reducing waste. I would like to see more repurposing of goods from the trade show floor to the community rather than simply adding to waste in city dumps.
As someone who actively engages in mentorship, what do you see as the biggest advantages your mentees gain from your experience and insights? And, what do you enjoy most about mentoring?
Julie: I have been fortunate to have mentors throughout my career and feel so lucky that I am in a place to become a mentor. It is exciting to see how accomplished, smart and engaged the young professionals are who are entering the industry, and I feel fortunate that I get to be a part of their journey. I enjoy answering questions and sharing some of the lessons I have learned over the years. Building relationships has been the highlight of mentorship for me and watching young professionals become industry leaders.
With your extensive experience in both industry and public service, what advice would you give to emerging professionals who want to make a meaningful impact in advocacy?
Julie: Never be afraid to speak up and stand up for what you believe in. Advocacy can be scary but elected officials work for their communities and need to know what issues matter most to their neighbors. Share your story, build a relationship with your representatives and reach out consistently. Get involved, get engaged and continue to be passionate about speaking out on issues important to you.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor, how do you see your legislative work intersecting with the exhibitions and events industry?
Julie: As Chair of the Commerce and Labor Committee, I am fortunate to get the bulk of the business bills coming to the Senate. From licensing to banking, the contractors board to cannabis and ticketing to workers compensation, it is incredibly helpful to have the adaptability I gained in the events industry when reading legislation and conducting bill hearings. Every day is different and the flexibility and work ethic I gained in the exhibitions and events industry serve me well in the legislature. We all bring our personal experiences into bill discussions and the knowledge I have gained throughout my time at Edlen and as a member of IAEE has been critical to my success.
