Representative Joseph Awarded 2025 Rising Environmental Leader Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 31, 2025

BOSTON, Mass.— Colorado State Representative Junie Joseph (House District 10) has been honored with the 2025 Rising Environmental Leader Award by the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators (NCEL). The award, presented during NCEL’s National Forum in Boston, recognizes Representative Joseph’s leadership in advancing environmental action early in her legislative career.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this award from NCEL, a network I deeply respect and admire,” said Representative Joseph. “Environmental justice, community-driven solutions, and inclusive policy making are not only central to my work; they are essential to building a future where every Coloradan has access to clean air, safe water, and a resilient climate. Environmental policy is also economic policy, especially in a state like Colorado, where wildfire risk increases insurance costs and affects the ability of families to mortgage their homes.”

The NCEL National Forum, held July 31–August 2, convened over 175 legislators from 40 states and territories to share policy innovations and environmental strategies. The Rising Environmental Leader Award is presented annually to a state legislator who demonstrates outstanding promise and action in the early stages of their environmental policy career.

Representative Joseph has quickly distinguished herself as a statewide leader on climate resilience, conservation, Tribal engagement, and equity-centered policymaking. She has advanced impactful legislation that reflects the voices of those most affected by environmental injustice, while also actively contributing to NCEL’s national dialogue through events like the NCEL x Blue Planet Foundation Policy Workshop.

“Rep. Joseph exemplifies the kind of bold, thoughtful leadership our environmental future depends on, and we're proud to uplift her work through NCEL,” said Dylan McDowell, NCEL CEO. “Her dedication to community-driven solutions and collaboration with fellow legislators is helping shape a more resilient, equitable path forward.”