Asha Sharma: A Dynamic Leader Driving Environmental Justice and Policy Reform

Asha Sharma is an influential leader known for her dedication to environmental justice, community advocacy, and policy reform. Serving as the State Policy Manager at Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, Sharma has shaped state policy efforts that emphasize equity, sustainability, and community-driven solutions. Her extensive experience spans leadership roles in renowned organizations such as the Pesticide Action & Agroecology Network and Waxman Strategies. Sharma’s academic foundation in International Agricultural Development from the University of California, Davis, combined with her professional journey, has made her a prominent voice in environmental and social justice sectors.

Asha Sharma and the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability

Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability is a community-based organization focused on advancing equity in land use, housing, and environmental policies throughout California. As the State Policy Manager, Asha Sharma plays a pivotal role in managing statewide policy campaigns that reflect the needs and priorities of frontline communities. Her work involves coalition-building, legislative advocacy, and policy research, all aimed at promoting justice and accountability in environmental decisions.

Sharma’s leadership at the Counsel is characterized by a commitment to integrating science with community knowledge to craft effective policy solutions. Her role demands a delicate balance of technical expertise and grassroots collaboration, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard in the legislative arena. She actively engages with lawmakers, testifying on critical bills that address housing development, climate resilience, and environmental protections.

Education: Building a Strong Foundation

Asha Sharma’s academic journey laid the groundwork for her career in environmental policy and advocacy. She earned a Master of Science in International Agricultural Development from the University of California, Davis, graduating in 2020. Her graduate studies concentrated on soil science and sustainable agricultural practices, providing her with a scientific understanding that enhances her policy work.

Before UC Davis, Sharma completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Government, along with Geology, from the University of Texas at Arlington. This diverse educational background equipped her with a unique blend of policy analysis, scientific inquiry, and an understanding of governmental systems.

Throughout her academic career, Sharma demonstrated leadership and research skills, including her role as a Graduate Student Researcher and Teaching Assistant at UC Davis. These experiences sharpened her ability to analyze complex environmental issues and communicate solutions effectively.

Leadership Roles Beyond the Counsel

Before joining Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, Asha Sharma held significant leadership positions that reflect her broad expertise and passion for environmental justice.

Pesticide Action & Agroecology Network

From May 2021 to May 2024, Sharma served as Organizing Co-Director at Pesticide Action Network North America. This organization is dedicated to eliminating the harmful effects of pesticides and promoting agroecology—an approach to farming that supports biodiversity and sustainable ecosystems. In this role, Sharma coordinated grassroots campaigns, engaged diverse stakeholders, and amplified the voices of communities affected by pesticide exposure.

Her work involved organizing community leaders, policymakers, and scientists to advocate for safer agricultural practices and stricter pesticide regulations. The position allowed her to deepen her understanding of environmental health and justice, aligning closely with her mission to protect vulnerable populations and promote sustainable food systems.

Waxman Strategies

Earlier, Sharma worked as a Director at Waxman Strategies from May 2020 to May 2021. Waxman Strategies is a policy and advocacy consulting firm that specializes in environmental and public health issues. In this capacity, Sharma helped design strategic campaigns to influence legislation and regulatory policies at various government levels.

Her tenure here honed her skills in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and campaign management. This experience also expanded her network within environmental advocacy circles and government agencies, which she continues to leverage in her current work.

Contributions to Science and Environmental Advocacy

Asha Sharma’s career is also marked by important research and consulting roles that blend science with activism.

• At the Union of Concerned Scientists, she worked as a consultant and research assistant on initiatives focusing on tropical forests and climate change. These projects involved analyzing data on deforestation, carbon sequestration, and climate policy impacts, providing evidence to support stronger environmental protections.
• Sharma’s experience as a Mobile Market Associate at Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food & Agriculture further exemplifies her commitment to equitable access to healthy food and sustainable agriculture.
• During her earlier career, she served as a Research Assistant and Social Media Manager at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, supporting public engagement and dissemination of environmental research.
• Notably, Sharma gained valuable insights working as a Chief of Staff Intern at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, where she contributed to high-level environmental policy discussions and initiatives.

Honors and Recognition

Throughout her career, Asha Sharma has been recognized for her leadership potential and commitment to public service. Among her notable honors is the Bill Archer Fellowship awarded by The University of Texas System in August 2013. This fellowship is given to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership and a dedication to advancing public policy.

This honor reflects Sharma’s consistent drive to impact social and environmental systems positively, serving as an encouragement and validation of her contributions.

The Vision Ahead

Asha Sharma’s work at the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability continues to influence California’s approach to environmental justice and equitable policy. Her vision is rooted in the belief that meaningful community involvement is essential to shaping sustainable and just outcomes in land use and environmental decisions.

By leveraging her scientific knowledge, policy expertise, and grassroots organizing skills, Sharma champions reforms that protect vulnerable communities from environmental harm while promoting access to affordable housing and resilient infrastructure.

Her career trajectory suggests a long-term commitment to integrating environmental science with justice-focused advocacy, making her a key figure in shaping the future of sustainable policy both locally and nationally.

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Conclusion

Asha Sharma exemplifies leadership that bridges science, policy, and community advocacy. From her educational roots at the University of California, Davis, to her dynamic roles at Pesticide Action Network and Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, Sharma’s work is grounded in a passion for environmental justice and systemic change.

Her ability to navigate complex policy landscapes, engage diverse stakeholders, and center community voices makes her a powerful agent of change. As environmental challenges grow more urgent, leaders like Asha Sharma are essential to ensuring equitable, effective, and sustainable solutions.