To help, Kristen Grainger, currently a vice president at Willamette University and executive assistant to the president, was prompted to write a song about climate change. As the lead singer for the bluegrass group True North, she performs the song with guitarist Dan Wetzel. Called "Oceans Rising," it is available online.

"We were stunned with its beauty and its message," Negri said. "How could we use the song to garner attention to the cause? The obvious solution was a video contest. A great song needs a great video."
Both Grainger and Negri said they are concerned about the lack of action regarding global warming.

"It's even harder to ignore the realities of climate change, although there's plenty of evidence that many Americans are trying very hard to ignore them, which is why I wrote the song," Grainger said.

Negri agrees, but says that Willamette students are dedicated to the cause and their energy is contagious.

"I think the students understand that it is their world that is in harm's way if we do not stem the tide. It is wonderful to work with students who are bright, dedicated and enthusiastic."

Noting the anti-war and civil rights movements, Grainger hopes that with efforts like the music video contest, global climate change activists will gain more momentum.

"I figure that different people are motivated by different things. Music is a common language that connects us all. Music was a huge part of important causes. It is powerful because music touches and motivates people on an emotional level -- differently, and sometimes more effectively, than a speaker or a publication," she said.