Dr. Muriel Adams believes that the most important lasting change to protect public health and water quality is increasing education, especially in schools. She explained that many people are unaware of basic but important information, like where their water comes from, and even in our area, people do not know about the Waukegan River or how it impacts water quality. She believes that if students learn about local water sources early on, they will grow up more aware and more likely to protect them, since education builds long-term habits and knowledge. She also pointed out that certain communities, such as Zion, North Chicago, and Waukegan, are more vulnerable to water-related health risks, especially those living near power plants where pollution is more common. Many of these communities also have lower incomes, which can make it harder to access resources or advocate for change. Dr. Adams’ path into water quality work began through her background in criminal justice, where she worked with young men in a juvenile detention center in Chicago and saw the importance of community and support systems. After moving to Lake County and taking an environmental class, she became more aware of water quality issues and was inspired to take action. Now, she runs a community-based stewardship program for adults where participants learn about environmental issues by visiting power plants, going on nature walks, and presenting what they learn. Her work focuses on building awareness, confidence, and community involvement so that more people take responsibility for protecting water quality.