Marcel Van Ooyen
Marcel Van Ooyen earned degrees in Social Ecology from the University of California Irvine and from the Seattle University School of Law specializing in Environmental Law. After graduating from law school, Mr. Van Ooyen worked for the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council in Washington State, where he conducted the environmental review of proposed power plants. Upon moving to New York City, Mr. Van Ooyen worked for the New York City Council as the Chief of Staff to City Council Member Gifford Miller and then as Legislative Director for the City Council. As Legislative Director, he wrote and ensured the adoption of over 30 environmental laws, including the city’s landmark green buildings legislation, lead bill, clean air codes, environmental purchasing laws, and many more. Since joining GrowNYC, he has developed new and innovative programs like Learn it, Grow it, Eat it and Youthmarkets, which help teens improve their eating habits through education, gardening, community outreach and running urban farm stands in their neighborhoods.