Kathryn Horvath

About Kathryn Horvath

I’m a mission-driven professional with a background in public communications and legislative advocacy, passionate about advancing climate solutions and environmental justice. I specialize in translating complex policy into clear, compelling messages that mobilize communities and influence decision-makers. Whether shaping narratives, building coalitions, or pushing for change at the legislative level, I bring a strategic lens and a deep commitment to sustainability.My work focuses on advancing waste reduction across multiple sectors, including electronic, textile, and plastic waste. In Washington state, my legislative advocacy has contributed to the passage of landmark policies such as the Right to Repair bills—addressing electronic waste and consumer protection—and the Recycling Reform Act, an extended producer responsibility (EPR) law for paper and plastic packaging. At PIRG, I led the national Waste is Out of Fashion campaign, using public education and grassroots organizing to deliver over petition signatures urging major corporations to manage overstock more sustainably and reduce textile waste.Together, these efforts reflect my core belief that effective policy, clear communication, and community-driven action are essential to building a just and sustainable future.

Experience

1. Waste is out of Fashion Campaign Associate

   PIRG

   Dec 2023 — Present · WA, US

   Directed U.S. PIRG\'s Waste is Out of Fashion corporate campaign with a goal to reduce unnecessary waste in the fashion industry and target specific brands to make advanced commitments to sustainability- Lobbied for multiple state and federal campaign issues. Worked closely alongside WA legislators in efforts to pass state legislation including the Right to Repair Act, Re-WRAP Act, and fashion industry regulations- Built powerful coalitions by reaching out to like-minded organizations and affected constituency groups- Wrote and published op-eds, LTE\'s, blog posts, and articles on various campaigns and supporting environmental issues-Organized lobby meetings with Washington state legislators and members of congress, including a successful lobby day of 70 meetings with over 50 volunteers and organizers in attendance- Aided studentPIRG chapters in fundraising during their Beyond Plastics pledge drive, helping them reach their goal of new student pledges- Represented the organization in the media through interviews and press conferences- Organized and moderated a national webinar with over 70 attendees that showcased a discussion about advancing sustainability in fashion between with lawmakers and leaders in the sustainable fashion industry.

Education

• Pepperdine University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Sustainability, GPA: 3.9/4.0

  2019 — 2023

• The Bear Creek School

  High School Diploma, GPA: 3.85/4.0

  2015 — 2019

• Pepperdine University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, PSYCHOLOGY

  2019 — 2023