An Interview with Nicole Morris-McLaughlin of the Marion Institute
Siena Hacker: How did the Marion Institute get started, and how is the Institute continuing that mission today?
Nicole Morris-McLaughlin: Founded in 1993 by Michael and Margie Baldwin, the Marion Institute is an incubator of innovative models for social change. We cultivate great ideas and support visionary leaders creating progress around the world. Based on the Southcoast of Massachusetts, the Marion Institute strives to enhance the quality of life for our neighbors as well, working to strengthen community, foster healthy living, and expand sustainability, particularly in the historic city of New Bedford, fast becoming one of the greenest cities in America.
SH: How do members support the mission?
NML: We keep in contact with thousands of people who have attended our events and who have worked with our projects. They support our mission by giving support to our many programs.
SH: What are some of the programs you’re currently involved in?
NML: The nonprofit Marion Institute is an umbrella organization, housing four main programs: SouthCoast Energy Challenge, GROW Education, BioMed Network, and Connector Series, as well as serving as fiscal sponsor for our Greenhouse Initiatives around the world. In addition to educating and advocating for clean, affordable energy in our region through the SouthCoast Energy Challenge, our work also includes school-based community gardening, supporting the science of self-healing, and hosting cutting-edge thought leaders in the fields of health, social justice, sustainability, responsible business, and individual potential.
SH: How does Mass Solar Connect relate to the Marion Institute’s mission?
NML: Through our program, SouthCoast Energy Challenge, our goal is to bring clean, affordable energy to the communities on the SouthCoast of Massachusetts. Making people aware of this fantastic tool Solar.com provides fits right in with our mission.
SH: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us today, Nicole. Solar.com is so excited to be working with the Marion Institute, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, and Self-Reliance to help Massachusetts residents go solar through Mass Solar Connect!
