Newsletter- Summer 2007

Remembering Clem Laufenberg

by Jeanne Roy

Pictured: Rick Baker (left) and Clem Laufenberg

Clem Laufenberg, who died of cancer June 1, was a key player in the formation of the Oregon Natural Step Network ten years ago.

In 1996 when I decided to introduce The Natural Step framework to Oregon business and government decision-makers through a one-day workshop, I had to draw on people with the skills to make it happen. I approached Clem with the hope that he would plan Oregon's first TNS workshop. He said, "No, I won't take on the project, but I will coach you in the effort." And what an extraordinary coach he was! He helped our core team plan three sold-out workshops. Later as a volunteer for the Network for many years, he coached individual organizations taking their first steps toward sustainability, trained other volunteer "coaches," and initiated peer learning groups.

Clem didn't do things half-way. To fully understand the TNS framework, in 1997 he attended a five-day advanced training in Santa Fe. The following year he traveled to Sweden to observe first-hand how businesses and agencies were using TNS. Over time, his volunteer work for the Network supplanted his other business activities as he pursued his highest vision to create a sustainable society.

Clem was without equal in his ability to plan a great event. His entrepreneurial spirit and excruciating attention to detail were keys to building the Network tradition of very high quality events. His thorough planning assured conferences, workshops, and breakfasts that provided value for all who attended. A stunning achievement was the three-day conference in 2001, which attracted 350 people to hear world leaders in the field of sustainability.

As our tenth anniversary approaches, the tradition of Network events is a lasting legacy from this wonderful life coach. We remember his high energy level, his openness to new ideas, and his relentless desire to serve and to make a better world.