Celebration of the Life and Legacy of Kate Bartholomew Register

Kate touched so many lives and was a fearless warrior for justice, especially where there were threats to the natural world. For two decades she was a volunteer leader with the Sierra Club and for the past 8 years served as the chair of the Atlantic Chapter, managing the organization’s day-to-day environmental campaigns across New York State. Kate also served in many capacities within the national Sierra Club and was a forceful advocate for preserving the volunteer core and grassroots soul of the organization. She played a major leadership role in achieving NY’s fracking ban, fought tirelessly against the proliferation of nuclear energy and weaponry, and supported efforts to protect endangered species, wolves especially. Her background as a high school science teacher grounded her as an advocate both in the fastidious establishment of fact and the patience and diplomacy to build agreement among the most strident activists. By her own admission, Kate herself was a bit rough-around-the-edges and did not mince words when she felt passionate about an issue. It was that quality, along with her difficulty in saying “no” to any cause in need, that advanced her to many leadership positions. The void she leaves behind within the Sierra Club is immense, and we know the bonds of friendship she forged through fierce compassion and advocacy will help sustain the Chapter that she has led for more than a decade. It will take time to process this devastating loss, but we will honor Kate's legacy and dedication through our continued work here in NYS (and beyond).