The Luskin Center for Innovation is excited to welcome Grace Harrison as our new associate project manager of water equity research. She joins us from UC Berkeley, where she conducted research related to the Human Right to Water, specifically focusing on water affordability for individuals using small water systems and domestic wells in California. Now, she will work with our water research team to address inequities in access to safe, affordable water.

We asked Grace a few questions to get to know her better. Read on to learn more about her!

How did you first get interested in water policy?

When I was growing up, my father worked in agriculture and spoke with me about California farmers’ water issues. I would fixate on the drought and instruct my family to do everything we could to save water within our household. When I started my undergraduate degree, California was in yet another drought, and I learned that many Californians were facing unsafe and unaffordable drinking water. I was angry and wanted to act.

What does water equity mean to you?

To me, water equity means everyone has access to safe, clean, affordable drinking water and wastewater services no matter where they live, their economic status, or their race or identity. Equitable water systems benefit everyone in the community and build resilience in the face of climate-related risks such as drought and flood. 

What are you most looking forward to in this role?

I am excited to collaborate with the Luskin Center’s network of organizations and researchers to address multifaceted problems. Collaboration is key.

What are a few things people should know about you?

I love learning what other people find fascinating. I will happily chat with you about your niche interests — and in return, maybe you will hear me chat about maps, vintage furniture or the T.V. show Survivor.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love spending time outdoors hiking, swimming, playing tennis and taking meandering bike rides… and when I head indoors, I love to cook!