Staff Profile: Emily Goldstein, Environmental Planner, Office of Climate and Environment

January 30, 2024

Get to know Environmental Planner Emily Goldstein.

What did you want to be growing up? What is your fantasy career? When I was growing up I wanted to be a firefighter, but my fear of heights quickly eliminated that possibility from the list. My fantasy career would be a whitewater rafting guide out west. 

What did you study in college? Architecture and Environmental Science

What are your responsibilities? My responsibilities are evenly split between general environmental planning (current focus on water quality and farmland preservation projects) and trail planning work.

What is your favorite part of working at DVRPC? I really enjoy the people who work at DVRPC and that we are all passionate about serving our community.

What is your work/life philosophy? To find a job that you enjoy and get fulfillment from, but to remain dynamic in your interests and find multiple passions. 

What is something colleagues don’t know about you? I volunteer at a Farm Animal Sanctuary in Lancaster once a month where I take care of goats, cows, horses, sheep, ducks, pigs, llamas, and chicken. I have a picture of one of the cows (Jude) that I take care of on my desk at work. 

What is your favorite leisure activity? Being active outside brings me a lot of joy. Whether it's volunteering with Friends of the Wissahickon or taking my paddle board to Lake Nockamixon, spending time outside brings me a lot of peace.

What is the last book you read? I am currently reading The Dutch House by Ann Patchett. I read Bel Canto, another beautiful work of fiction by Ann Patchett, years ago and have never forgotten how her writing made me feel. I am now revisiting some of her more recent novels and I have not been disappointed.   

What are your Top 3 places you want to travel to? New Zealand, Croatia, and Morocco

Are you a cat or dog person? I love all animals, but I have a particular fondness for dogs :) 

What is the most meaningful item in your house? My mom is an exceptionally talented artist who has been experimenting with different mediums in her retirement. She is currently mastering stained glass, and she has filled my home and windows with beautiful pieces of artwork.

Commission

Air Quality Partnership
Annual Report
Connections 2050
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)
Economic Development District