A Mission for Change: Jenks Environmental Club
Photo Credit: Jenks Environmental Club
By: Ellie Mink
Founded just this year, the Environmental Club at Jenks High School is on a mission to make students more mindful of their impact on the planet. Through projects, meetings, and school-wide initiatives, the club aims to turn environmental awareness into meaningful action.
For many of its members, the club represents more than just an extracurricular—it’s a way to spark change in their own community.
“I immediately knew I wanted to be in a leadership position when initially joining the club because I am passionate about educating people as a step towards creating a better environment,” said an officer. “Being a part of that through the club is a great opportunity.”
Catherine Clary, the club's Publicist, emphasized that environmentalism isn’t just about nature, it’s about people too.
“The air we breathe, the food we eat, and the stability of our communities all depend on a healthy environment,” said Clary. “It’s not a distant or abstract problem; it’s part of our everyday lives.”
The club was founded by junior Olivia Wasif, whose interest in environmental law inspired her to take action at the school level.
“I wanted to create a club where students who share my same values about the environment could work together on projects within the school and community,” said Wasif. “There wasn’t really something dedicated just toward the environment, and I felt like that was a big topic that needed to be addressed.”
Since its creation, the club has attracted a growing number of students who share the same vision. Members meet regularly to discuss pressing environmental issues and plan activities that encourage sustainability within the Jenks community.
“The goal at first was just to find a lot of students who related to the club’s mission and create a group of environmentally conscious students who want to do good things for the Earth,” said Wasif.
For some officers, the club has deepened their appreciation for environmental advocacy. Researcher Lex McNeil said his fascination with the environment started early.
“When I was younger, I would go outside during thunderstorms and build myself a little watch tent because I was so fascinated by storms,” said McNeil. “When I saw that my good friend Olivia was putting together an environmental club, I immediately asked if I could join.”
As the club’s researcher, McNeil keeps members informed about current environmental issues and local solutions.
“Being an officer has allowed me to familiarize myself with current environmental issues,” said McNeil. “It’s rewarding to educate people about the environment and ways they can help, leading them to spread awareness as well.”
As the club continues to grow, members are eager to show that caring for the planet isn't limited to self-described environmentalists.
“I hope to expand the club’s reach to students who don’t necessarily think of themselves as ‘environmentalists,’” said Clary. “The state of the environment directly affects all aspects of our lives, and that’s why everyone should make an effort to contribute.”
Though still student-led, the Environmental Club is working toward becoming an official school club—a goal that reflects their commitment to making a lasting difference.
As Wasif put it, “We just want to build a camaraderie of students who care about the planet and want to take action. Even small efforts can lead to big change.”
For students interested in getting involved, the message from the club is simple: jump in and start helping. To join, follow their Instagram @jenksenvironmental and fill out the membership form linked in their bio.
