Her Story
About Jane
Jane DeMarines is an environmental advocate, nonprofit executive, and communications professional with more than 45 years of experience spanning environmental education, public affairs, nonprofit leadership, government communications, housing, finance, and community development. She currently serves as Executive Director of Climate Diet, a nonprofit organization she founded to educate the public about the relationship between food choices, animal agriculture, and climate change. Before founding Climate Diet, Jane held leadership positions in nonprofit organizations focused on community development and financial education and spent approximately a decade in federal government service with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Department of Homeland Security, specializing in communications, reporting, public affairs, and program evaluation. Her expertise includes nonprofit management, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, public policy, coalition building, and environmental education. Through initiatives such as podcasts, newsletters, school partnerships, and the Climate Warriors college program, she promotes practical, science-based approaches to reducing the environmental impact of food choices. Jane is an active member of the Maryland Association of Nonprofits and has dedicated many years to community service through environmental conservation, nonprofit leadership, and public education initiatives. Her work has been recognized through professional awards and her selection as an Influential Women 2026 honoree.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jane
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, building meaningful relationships, and continuously learning from others. Throughout my career, I have made a point of connecting with leaders, volunteering with professional organizations, and participating in groups such as the Maryland Association of Nonprofits. These experiences have provided valuable education, mentorship, peer support, and opportunities to collaborate with people who have successfully built organizations before me. I believe that combining dedication with strong professional relationships has been instrumental to my success.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to invest in their education and seek as many internship opportunities as possible to gain meaningful, hands-on experience. Build relationships with professionals who can mentor and support your career, and join organizations that provide networking and learning opportunities. Volunteer whenever possible to develop practical skills and create a portfolio of work—whether through published articles, projects, or other accomplishments—so that you can demonstrate your abilities beyond your résumé. Strong preparation, continuous learning, and professional connections are invaluable for long-term success.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges is effectively communicating the importance of reducing meat consumption without creating misunderstandings about our mission. Our focus is on encouraging more sustainable eating habits, yet misinformation and well-funded industry disinformation campaigns often make public education difficult. Securing funding and expanding media coverage also remain ongoing challenges.
At the same time, I see significant opportunities as climate change becomes increasingly visible through record-breaking heat and extreme weather events. These realities are motivating more people—especially younger generations—to explore practical climate solutions. Growing interest in plant-forward diets and educational initiatives, including college engagement programs, presents an important opportunity to inspire meaningful, long-term behavioral change.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I believe in maintaining high ethical standards, working hard, and making meaningful contributions to my community. I value supporting others, encouraging collaboration, and creating opportunities for people to learn and grow. Personally, I believe in giving back, strengthening family and community relationships, and maintaining a healthy balance by making time to enjoy life while pursuing work that creates a positive impact on society and the environment.
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