Julia Butterfly Hill was awarded a Presidential Citation for her outstanding achievements in environmental activism and inspiring millions of people worldwide through her courage, commitment and profound clarity.
An artist, author, poet, life coach and environmental activist, Butterfly Hill is profoundly adept at understanding empowerment, gender issues and how to maintain a focus on one's mission and values. Only sustained by the strength of her conviction, she courageously lived in the canopy of an ancient redwood tree for 738 days bringing international attention to the plight of ancient forest as well as other environmental and social justice issues. Butterfly Hill founded Circle of Life Foundation to promote sustainability, restoration and preservation of life in all its forms by supporting and networking individuals and organizations that are creating social and environmental solutions. She's contributing adviser to Ambassadors for Hope and Opportunity, an organization designed for youth, by youth, for the future of youth who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness; and, adviser to Reciprocity Foundation, a contemplative nonprofit offering transformative programming to homeless and foster youth in New York City. As the recipient of numerous awards, she received an honorary Doctorate Degree of Humanities from New College of California School of Humanities, the VFW Veterans for Peace Award, and the Bioneers Award for Outstanding Achievement in Environmental Activism. Butterfly Hill addressed the United Nations Commission on Human Settlements 17, as part of Huairou Commission on Women and Sustainability and was named one of the "20 Most Fascinating Women in Politics" by George Magazine. With her powerfully clear voice, she reminds us that we can make a positive difference through our actions and make the world a better place.