Caroline Lewis previously served as a passionate and dedicated science teacher and school principal for 22 years before joining the Botanic Garden, where she created the Fairchild Challenge. Since 2010, Lewis has been the founder and executive director of the non-profit CLEO Institute, based in Miami, Florida. She works with scientists, business and elected leaders, students, teachers, and the community to promote climate literacy, leadership, and informed advocacy, bridging between supporters of climate science and climate justice to amplify the urgency of immediate action. In 2013, Lewis was one of twelve individuals recognized as a White House Climate Resilience Champion of Change. She also authored Just Back Off and LET US TEACH, a book for effective teachers and those who champion them.