Lori is an environmentalist and policy advocate with a degree in Environmental Studies from Hawaii Pacific University. Originally from Texas, she now resides in Kailua, Hawaii, where the beaches and wildlife face severe impacts from plastic pollution. Through her work with Sierra Club Hawaii, Lori has actively advocated for waste management, plastic reduction, and recycling legislation at both the state legislature and city council levels.

Recognizing that change also starts at the community level, Lori opened Protea Zero Waste Store to promote sustainable living through refill solutions. After five years, she shifted her focus to tackle the growing issue of fashion waste, rebranding the store as Protea Thrift in January 2025.

When Lori isn’t running Protea Thrift, she continues her advocacy efforts, volunteers with local environmental organizations, and enjoys life in Hawaii with her husband, family, friends, and dogs. Her favorite pastimes include beach outings, hiking, traveling, dancing, attending live music events, and watching sunsets