Larissa Parker ‘12, Alumni of Distinction Award Recipient 2020

During her time at TFS, Larissa Parker became intrigued at the possibility of contributing to broad, meaningful societal change in the emerging frontier of environmental law.   

She volunteered on public interest cases concerning climate change, environmental inequality, and the rights of the environment itself. In tandem, she also became actively involved in initiatives that promote Indigenous law and perspectives within the legal system.

“Environmental problems affect vulnerable populations of our society the most,” remarks Larissa. “Low-income, racialized, and Indigenous communities are likely to bear the brunt of the climate crisis.” 

Larissa felt compelled to do more at the intersection of these two critical social issues: 

“As someone carrying a tremendous amount of privilege, I feel compelled to protect communities against these harms and provide redress where possible.”

 

Larissa credits her TFS teachers, especially her geography teacher Josette Bouchard, with cultivating her interest in environmental justice at a young age—even before she herself was aware of her own interests. 

“I had great teachers at TFS who helped me to think creatively and helped guide me to find my niche in environmental subjects.”

That led to leadership roles on the TFS Student Council, Heads of Houses (Giles), and involvement in the Globe Club. Later, Larissa completed a philosophy degree, a master of science degree in environmental governance (Oxford University), and a law degree (McGill University), which, with her TFS experience, has positioned her uniquely to make an impact in the area of environmental law. She will soon complete her articles in environmental law.

Larissa was named one of Forbes’ Top 30 under 30 Leaders (EU) and one of Canada’s Top 30 Under 30 Sustainability Leaders. Recently, the Globe and Mail recognized her as a Canadian Making a Difference, and in 2019, she won The Economist Open Future Essay Competition among 2,400 applicants for an essay about the intergenerational implications of climate change. 

TFS taught her how important it is to advocate for what you believe in—whether in the classroom, boardroom, or in the pages of a newspaper.

“Do what brings you joy and the thing you want to focus on will become clear.”