Current Participants: 2022 – 2023

Aryana Becchetti

Hi! My name is Aryana Becchetti and I am a sophomore majoring in Political Science and minoring in Spanish. I’m a transfer student from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outside and have developed a great appreciation & respect for nature! I am passionate about sustainability and creating the change I want to see. I have experience with other climate action groups such as MPIRG, Sierra Club, etc. and hope to apply what I have learned about action planning and sustainability to new projects! After graduation, I plan on going to law school and becoming a lawyer. I would love to go into civil/environmental law and work on policy change. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, being outdoors, crocheting, gardening, and thrifting! I’m excited to work together and teach others about the importance of sustainability and protecting our environment!

Lily Dodge

Hi everyone! My name is Lily Dodge and I use she/her pronouns. I’m a freshman studying Neuroscience with the College of Biological Sciences and I plan on minoring in Spanish and/or Graphic Design. I’ve always been passionate about helping the environment and making sustainable resources accessible for everyone, so I’m super excited to be working on this project! Outside of IonE, I participate in a few student groups on campus and I work for Dr. Schuchardt’s lab as an undergrad research assistant studying how students learn evolution. In my free time, I love to do photography, go for bike rides, and explore the twin cities!

Past Participants: 2021 – 2022

My name is Brianna Barkema, and I am a senior double majoring in Human Physiology and BSE (Biology, Society, and Environment) with a minor in public health. I wanted to participate in the climate action project because every day we are seeing the direct effects of climate change and the impact it has on our community. With climate change continuing to rapidly effect our ecosystems, it is clear that each and every person and organization needs to do their part in curbing greenhouse emissions. This project gave me the opportunity to contribute towards a greater push for climate action with measurable consequences.

Hi! My name is Christiana Hardie and I am a first-year student double majoring in linguistics and philosophy. Being raised on a farm in southwest Ohio taught me how to appreciate all of our earths natural resources, and it has spurred me to pursue a career in environmental law. I specifically hope to focus on natural resource law and work for a government or non-profit agency. I currently work as a sustainability advocate for my dorm, and in my free time I like to take long walks, explore the many parks and trails by our campus, and read.

Hello! My name is Betty Huynh and I am a first year majoring in Environmental Engineering, with a possible minor in sustainability. I’m from the suburbs of Illinois and I love trying new things! In my free time, I enjoy thrifting, basketball, dance, eating cereal, reading, skateboarding, zoning out to music, and hanging out with friends. My interests include renewable energy, clean water, polymer chemistry, water mitigation systems, animal care, social justice, and water infrastructure. I have experience in animal care, conservation, and preservation under the Cook County Forest Preserves, and I hope to use what I learned there to help in future sustainability projects! My end goal in life is to assist in strengthening and improving the co-existent bond between humans and nature. I hope that through my work here, and as an environmental engineer, I can make a positive impact on the world.

Hi! My name is Carly, and I am a third year student with a major in Retail Merchandising. I am passionate about sustainability, in particular sustainable textiles and ethical consumption. Outside of school, I love to camp, travel, dance, and go to concerts. I am looking forward to learning more about sustainability and working with our community.

My name is Claire Westman and I am currently a freshman majoring in Architecture! I am especially interested in sustainable architecture and how to make buildings more energy efficient. I love being in nature, hiking, exploring outside, going camping up north and going to my cabin! I love being active and traveling to new countries.

I am Molly and a senior at the University of MN- Twin Cities, studying Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior. I’ve become really passionate about the environment and the sustainability of the Earth after working as a gardener. The experience really opened my eyes to the importance of pollinators, generating greens space in urban environments, and how rewarding it is to grow your own food. I enjoy (attempting) to grow my own produce and propagating plants, while also being in nature. I hope to travel as much of the world as I can while attending graduate school some day to get involved in research.

Hello! My name is Anjali Muppidi and I am a freshman studying Environmental Science, Policy and Management, with a potential minor in Political Science. I have always been someone who admires the changes people can make in our society, and environmental issues are something that our world desperately needs to change as soon as possible. I aspire to become a lawyer and work for a governmental agency so I can play a role in solving environmental issues! In my free time, I am fascinated with learning languages (right now I’m learning Korean and Arabic) and I love to dance.

I am Diego and I was born and raised in Minneapolis. I am 23 years old. I use He/Him pronouns. I am a transfer student from Minneapolis College where I graduated in 2018. Rather than jumping straight into a 4-year after my associates degree, I decided to take some time off to find out what I am passionate about. Through working on organic farms, living with my father in rural Mexico, starting a podcast, & pursuing other creative endeavors I have learned a lot about myself & my interests. I have so far discovered that I am passionate about topics related to environmental justice, sustainability, education & mass communication.

Hello! My name is Ella Rodewald. I am a second-year student majoring in Biology, Society and Environment and minoring in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management, Sustainable Studies and Creative Writing. I’m a sustainability committee member in the Society of Women Engineers club as well as the graphic design officer for the Compassionate Action For Animals club here at the UMN campus. I am most interested in sustainable food systems and I hope to be able to help strategize ways to develop regenerative and equitable food systems, while maintaining respect for cultures, traditions and the socio-economic factors that dictate peoples’ choices. Ecosystem Health and systems things is a combination of my love for the humanities, my interest in science and my drive to want to leave this world a little better. In my free time I enjoy going to coffee shops, writing, and spending time with my family and friends.

Hi! My name is Mia Schwartz and I am a sophomore majoring in Environmental Sciences, Policy, & Management in CFANS and Earth Sciences in CLA. I have been passionate about making a difference in the environment ever since I watched the documentary Chasing Coral in my high school oceanography class. I absolutely love what I study, and I spend a lot of time in class looking at rocks and minerals! I am still exploring many environmental career paths, so only time will tell what I plan to do with my degree. Outside of school, I am involved in Minnesota Hillel, where I serve as the Yalla Chair and plan programs to help Jewish first year students get acclimated to life at the U. In my free time, I love to make and try new drinks (jasmine green tea is my current favorite) and explore the Twin Cities.

Hello, my name is Diana and I am a senior this year majoring with a B.S. in Geography(GIS) and a minor in Leadership. I am a proud first-generation Hispanic woman who is bilingual in both Spanish and English. I am excited to start my journey in the IonE Undergraduate Leaders Program and make a difference in our community! In the future, I hope to work with GIS/geospatial data within the government sector with a focus on the environment as well. Lastly, my interests lie in literature, knitting, skateboarding, and baking as well!

Hi! My name is Melissa Wood and I am a current junior studying Human Resource Development at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. I grew up in a suburb just thirty minutes outside of Minneapolis and I absolutely love living in Minnesota. My passion for the outdoors started with a trip to Rocky Mountain Park National Park in Colorado while in elementary school. Even since the, I have been a huge fan of the outdoors and spending lots of time outside. I have a passion for helping others and I would love to work for a non-profit organization after I graduate. One of my major life goals is to visit all the National Parks in the United States.

Hi! My name is Sid and I am a sophomore majoring in urban studies. I am passionate about social and environmental justice, understanding class and power, and sustainability studies. In my free time I enjoy walking outside with my dog, Floyd, exploring new experiences, and doing the dishes. Right now, I work to build skills, connections, and knowledge, hoping to make a difference in the world.

Past Participants: 2020 – 2021

Hi! My name is Joanna Wu and I am a second-year student majoring in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management and minoring in Corporate Environmental Management. Being born and raised in California, I have learned to appreciate the environment from hiking, going to beaches, and conserving water for most of my life. In my free time, I enjoy thrifting, playing volleyball, and find the best coffee place in the city. Regarding the environment, I am interested in learning more about environmental law and hopefully work at a government agency in the future.

I am a freshman in CBS, majoring in Cellular and Organismal Physiology and minoring in Art. I moved here from China at a young age, so the cultural differences among environmental issues have always been fascinating to me. I also enjoy creating positive changes, from mental health advocacy to challenging language and cultural barriers around me through interpretation services. In my free time I love to get involved with anything artistic, cook, and spend time with my younger siblings (ages 6 and 3!).

Hello! I am sophomore majoring in B.S. Geography and minoring in Geographic Information Science, Population Studies, and Interdisciplinary Design. I am from China, and I love making and collecting maps. I really care about the environmental issues and sustainable development of my hometown and other parts of the world. I want to make my own contributions on that.

My name Keeli Siyaka and I’m currently a Senior at the University of Minnesota – Morris majoring in Environmental Studies with a minor in Biology. I have always been interested in learning about the natural world through science, but I found my true passion for environmental justice issues after protesting the BP Whiting Oil refinery and subsequently visiting the movement at Standing Rock in the summer of 2016. Since then, I have made it my goal to dedicate my education and future career to making this planet a more equitable and sustainable home for all. I hope to achieve this through a career in environmental and tribal law. In my free time I enjoy beading and sewing, hiking with my dogs, experimenting in the kitchen, and listening to true crime podcasts.

I’m Lily Heiting! I’m a Junior majoring in Urban Studies with a minor in sustainability studies and possibly geographic information science as well. After graduation I currently hope to pursue my masters at the U for Environmental Planning. I am particularly interested in renewable energy sources, stormwater management/green infrastructure, waste management, and in general, learning ways to mitigate climate change. In my free time I enjoy cooking/baking, going for walks, and trying new foods and restaurants!

I’m Kayli, a fourth year undergraduate student studying Public & Nonprofit Management and Human Resources/Industrial Relations Management with a minor in Spanish. I grew up in New Hampshire and in northern Minnesota, where I always spent a lot of time outside. One particular area of sustainability and the environment that I’m curious about is the ways that perspectives on nature differ depending on where people grew up and how it influences values of outdoor stewardship and environmentalism. On campus, I’m a mentor to first-year students in the Carlson Crew Leaders program and a member of the U of M chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management. Outside of school, I enjoy sewing, walking outdoors, reading, and learning about medicinal and practical uses for plants and how to be responsible in caring for them.

I am a senior at the U of M Rochester campus. I am studying health sciences with the hopes of attending medical school and becoming an OB/GYN or fertility specialist. I grew up in Anoka, the Halloween capitol of the world and attended Anoka High school. I have enjoyed rock climbing since I was in high school and I love to go camping up north and hiking wherever I can find a nice trail. I recently became an aunt to a beautiful baby girl named Charlotte and I could not be more happy. I currently work at Cardinal of Minnesota but I am transitioning into my new job at the Mayo Clinic as a Urology Technician.

Hi, I’m Cynthia. I’m a 2nd year double majoring in Global Studies and Communications Studies and a minor in Management. My concentration of studies for my Global Studies major are cultural production and everyday practices and my region of concentration is East Asia. I have a passion to help people and make change to the world, which directed my dream job into working in a non-profit organization. Some of my favorite things to do are traveling, playing tennis, and staying home, tuck under my blanket with my favorite shows on.

My name is Xiaohang Zhi and I am an international student majoring in Electrical Engineering. I like hiking and cooking. I am passionate to exploring ways to use energy in a more efficient and clean way.

My name is Katie and I am a junior majoring in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior and minoring in Sustainability and Spanish. On campus, I am involved in the non-profit BrightSide Produce and assist in coordinating their food delivery program. I am also working on research involving species distribution modeling and I enjoy bicycling, journaling, and reading.

I am a Junior in the College of Liberal Arts working on my Bachelor of Individualized Studies in Psychology, Sociology, and Holistic Health, as well as doing a minor in Public Health. I am passionate about understanding the social determinants of health including the role of our environment in creating healthy communities. Outside of school I like being outdoors hiking or playing volleyball, and I also enjoy cooking and baking!

Hi! My name is Jacqueline and I am a senior studying Environmental Science, Policy, and Management with a minor in Corporate Environmental Management. I’m passionate about a variety of environmental issues including sustainability in business, plastic waste, wildlife conservation, and climate change. In my free time, you can find me blogging about water conservation issues, baking chocolate chip cookies, reading a good book in a sunny spot, playing badminton, or watching educational documentaries. I love learning about the world through travel and my favorite trip was when I visited Kenya!

I am a sophomore majoring in Human Resources Development and Computer Science with a minor in Human Resources and Industrial Relations. I volunteer regularly with Feed My Starving Children and as a Member of the International Student Ambassadors. I am involved in a diverse number of clubs and organizations like ISAB, SHRM, CCDG, etc. I enjoy spending time getting to meet new people from all over the world, crafting new masterpieces, and participating in researches.

My name is Asha Kaliappan, and I am a freshman majoring in Biology, Society, and the Environment and minoring in Public Health. I am passionate about the environment and how it relates to issues like justice, health, and sustainability. In my free time, I like to read, spend time outdoors and with family, listen to music, and watch movies.

I am a Marketing major with a minor in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management. I’ve loved the outdoors my whole life and I’m interested in how communication can be used to keep Earth green. I love biking around the cities, wasting time in spots that look nice, and attempting to learn the guitar. Someday, I hope to combine all these interests into a career that allows me to use my voice for good- preferably while also traveling!

I am a junior studying Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management. I’m interested in environmental policy and the intersection of inequality and climate change. I’m passionate about the importance of infusing environmental considerations in governance and business. In my free time, I enjoy reading, biking, trying new recipes, and watching gymnastics.

My name is Marin Kelly and I am a senior majoring in Biology, Society, and Environment with a minor in Sustainability Studies. During the Spring 2020 semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Bocas del Toro, Panama through The School for Field Studies. While abroad I learned about the language and culture of Panama, as well as tropical island biodiversity, resource management, environmental policy, and socioeconomic values. I was also able to work closely with local indigenous populations to understand their way of life and the struggles they face within a quickly changing climate and globalizing world. Overall, I am passionate about intersectional environmentalism; working for both people and the planet to create and advocate for social, racial, and environmental justice. I love all the outdoors, and in my free time, I enjoy photography, visiting coffee shops, hiking, backpacking, traveling, running, and cooking.

My name is Brita and I am a junior majoring in Biology, Society, and the Environment with a minor in Public Health. I am passionate about health equity and the intersection between environmental and human health. After graduation I hope to attend medical school and continue to focus on these areas. I am from Duluth, Minnesota and love going on canoe trips, hiking, and nordic skiing.

I am a junior year transfer student in the philosophy program of the College of Liberal Arts. My interest in philosophy overall was sparked by a wonderful environmental ethics class at Saint Paul College, and I can’t wait to apply everything I have learned, particularly in regards to the intersection of environmentalism and justice. I like spending time outdoors gardening, hiking, or even just watching the birds, otherwise you can usually find me cooking, reading, watching movies, or playing Dungeons and Dragons.

I’m Mia (she/her) and I am currently a senior majoring in Finance, Entrepreneurial Management, and Public and Nonprofit Management with a minor in Sustainability Studies. I hope to use the educational opportunities I have to gaining a better understanding of the issues we all face at the intersection of social and environmental problems. In the future, I want to use my career to implement innovative solutions that create positive impacts for vulnerable communities. I enjoy exploring new foods and music, spending quality time with friends, and cuddling with my cat! My favorite part of nature is water, so I love taking walks near a river, creek, or lake. I marvel at the beauty of the Earth and of other people, so I hope to leave a positive mark on both.

My name is Paula. I am a Senior in the College of Liberal Arts studying Global Studies with concentrations in political economy and environmental change in Africa and a minor in African American and African Studies!. My dream job is working in development in Africa. In my free time I like cooking and reading

My name is Chloe Wick, and I am majoring in Genetics, Cell Biology and Development and Chemical Engineering. I love spending time outside and am passionate about sustainability and the environment. In my free time I enjoy running, backpacking, hiking, watching terrible movies, and annoying my little sister.

Hi 👋 my name is Muna and I’m a sophomore at CSOM studying Marketing and International business. I’m passionate about working on meaningful projects and creating a thriving environment for others. In my free time, I enjoy going on nature walks, cooking, and making art. I’m looking forward to working on sustainability projects and building relationships with my fellow IOnE leaders!

My name is Rohan and I’m majoring in Physiology and Biology, Society and Environment with a minor in Spanish. I’m interested in sustainability and its intersection with the health and education here in Minneapolis.
I love to spend my free time outdoors running, walking, hammocking and playing soccer!

Hey everyone! I am majoring in Environmental Policy with a minor in Political Science. Ever since I saw a documentary in high school about microplastic pollution, I have been passionate about learning more about its impact. It is my goal to travel the world in search of the effects of microplastic pollution and create a documentary about it. In my free time, I enjoy listening to scary podcasts, working out, and eating Culver’s custard (cookie dough and vanilla only!).

I am a senior studying Marketing and International Business. My goal is to work in sustainable and purpose-driven business. My favorite things are the North Shore, black coffee, kayaking, skiing, and NPR podcasts.

I’m a junior studying Biology, Society, & Environment with an Ecology focus. In my free time, I love cooking, lounging at cafes, and spending time with my friends. I am passionate about the outdoors and am a trip leader with the UMN Outdoors Club. I believe in empowering all to be able to live sustainably while developing their connection with nature. I’ve been able to do so while working with Sustainability Education!

I am a sophomore double majoring in Human Physiology and BSE (Biology, Society, and Environment). After completing my degrees, I plan on pursuing an MD. I grew up in a low-income household that exposed me to the difficulties of having a lack of access to necessary resources. These experiences are what drives my desire to participate in the Minnesota 2020 Water Plan project. I hope this is just the beginning of my journey to making the world a better place.

I am currently a third year student in the College of Liberal Arts and I hope to major and/or minor in Jewish and Global studies. I grew an interest and passion for agricultural systems and issues surrounding food scarcity in high school which followed me into university. I hope that opportunities such as this program allow me to engage and connect with local communities on issues regarding sustainability. Activities I enjoy include reading, playing video games, hiking, and spending time with loved ones.

My name is Pavan (puh-ven) and I am a freshman majoring in Neuroscience in CBS from Lakeville, Minnesota. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing video games, listening to music, and anything outdoors. Some of my passions are current events/politics, art & music, science, and music. What drives me is the opportunity to create change for the better.

Past Participants: 2019 – 2020

Past Participants

2018-19 Participants

Lauren is a senior studying environmental science, policy, and management as well as double minoring in leadership and communication studies. She holds a student position at the Institute on the Environment with Sustainability Education as well as with an art-science collaborative called Backyard Phenology that works closely with the Native American Medicine Garden to host talking/healing circles that contribute to the understanding of phenology and observation of the natural world. She is interested in the connections between leadership, communication, and sustainability as well as furthering her understanding of the social issues facing our world. In her free time, Lauren enjoys hiking, backpacking, traveling, concert-going, and working zero-waste events with Eureka Recycling.

Libby has traveled to many different countries and observed firsthand how different cultures perceive, prioritize, and practice sustainability. She spent the 2017 spring semester in Tanzania studying the human-wildlife interface and researching the effects of climate change on agricultural practices. She has close ties with Francis Bettelyoun from the UMN Native American Medicine Garden, and has learned a tremendous deal about indigenous traditions, food sovereignty, and decolonization. She is involved with many clubs on campus including the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Club, the Marine Biology Club, and the Ski and Snowboard Club. These clubs provide her with a broad knowledge-base as well as a great network of classmates.

Melissa Markay will be a junior in the Carlson School of Management. She is pursuing a double major in Public and Nonprofit Management and Finance with a minor in Sustainability Studies. On campus, she is involved with a variety of organizations from IonE to Habitat for Humanity to the Weisman Art Museum. In her free time she loves anything outdoors, from kayaking to hammocking, photography, and shopping for vinyl.  Although she enjoyed spending my summer in London, she loved her time at the U of M and cannot wait to see what fall semester holds!

2015-2017 Participants

Julia Olson is an undergraduate in CBS majoring in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, and minoring in Spanish and Wildlife Care and Handling. She is active in Compassionate Action for Animals, Earthtrust, Feline Rescue, Queer Student Advocates, and the West Bank Community Garden, and is currently a volunteer with the Packer Lion Lab.

Sydney is pursuing her undergraduate degree in environmental science with a minor in Spanish. She is passionate about local food systems and very interested in the intersections between art and ecology. She is currently an Admissions Ambassador through the Office of Admissions and a research assistant in the Center for Dendrochronology. To combine her love for music and community outreach, she volunteers regularly at The Cedar Cultural Center, helping serve their mission to promote intercultural appreciation and understanding through global music and dance. In the future, Sydney hopes to obtain her M.B.A. and pursue a career in corporate social responsibility, working to create value by participating in collaborative efforts that will strengthen economies and communities while protecting the environment.

I scribble, speak words, listen to spoken word, listen to podcasts, travel, write letters,  read fiction, attempt to read non-fiction, cook, avoid baking, sing when no one is listening, sing when everyone is listening, dance, attempt to dance, ride anything with a board, debate, daydream, and listen…

Erica majored in Biology at the University of Minnesota and participated in the IonE Undergrad Leaders Program during her senior year at the University of Minnesota. The program provided her with a wonderful group of individuals who were also passionate about the well-being of the environment.  Since then, she has continued on for a Masters of Public Health program at Columbia University.

Mallory graduated from the College of Biological Sciences’ Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior with a minor in sustainability studies. Her areas of interest include using research of ecological interactions to develop sustainable resource usage at an industry level and sustainable lifestyles at a social level. Mallory was a member of the CBS Student Board, serves on the CBS Learning Technologies Committee and contributes to research in the Snell-Rood laboratory. She also enjoys talking about her experience as a student studying sustainability in Denmark. In the future Mallory hopes to pursue a Ph.D. with a focus on ecosystem ecology, communicate the importance of science to the public and learn Spanish. Some of Mallory’s favorite things outside of school include her four younger brothers, Birch Lake, ranting about social justice and brunch.

Justin Halverson is a musician, organizer, poet and senior at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. He majors in music, which he ties into his interest in the intersection of social, environmental and economic assets that benefit communities in creative ways. He is currently a leader of the West Bank Community Garden and is working with local activists and organizations to draft state legislation that funds the growth of community rain gardens. His other experience include working with multiple equity and sustainability organizations across the University of Minnesota campus, as well as Face Forward, Spark-Y Youth Action Labs, Project Sweetie Pie and the St. Paul School of Rock. Justin collaborates with local spoken word artists, plays bass in a number of bands and leads his own group. He envisions bringing people together around the intersection of art, nature and change that will transition us into a world that feels softer, smells like the seasons and moves just a little bit slower.

Jessica Eckerstorfer graduated with an English and philosophy double major with a concentration in civic life and ethics. She is currently working with Free Arts Minnesota through the Art Connection Grant to bring local youth artwork to various venues in the Twin Cities. Her research focuses on environmental ethics and the links between the humanities and the environment, as well as consumer language and ecofeminism. In her spare time, Jessica continues to grow her mounting book collection, play the piano, spend time as an amateur photographer and bike around the Twin Cities.

Moriah graduated with a degree in food systems. She wants to make a difference in the food system by gathering people from all backgrounds and providing them with the ability to know how to cook nutritious and healthy foods as well as grow them. Additionally, she wants to increase the amount of locally sourced food in her city by enhancing local communities and economies. She is currently a member of the Real Food Challenge leadership team — a group working to get more local, fair, sustainable and humane food on campus. One of her favorite pastimes is running and racing, and she also loves to cook while perusing the internet for new recipes.

Tyler Redden maintains office operations and publication orders for the Publications Office at the Institute on Community Integration, as well as providing general office and administrative support. Since October 2012 Tyler has worked in offices at the University, including the Carlson School of Management (IDSc/SME), School of Social Work, Center for Transportation Studies, Chemical Engineering and Material Sciences, and the Health Natural Sciences Libraries (with two years of prior experience working in retail banking). Tyler is a biology, society and the environment major with a concentration on the environment. Tyler is also a double minor in gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender studies and sustainability studies, and is pursuing American Sign Language interpreting certification. Through the GLBTA Programs Office Tyler is listed as a staff and student resource due to his work in the GLBT mentoring program.

Kristen majored in Environmental Sciences, Policy, and Management at the University of Minnesota, participating in the Undergraduate Leaders Program during her senior year. Her interest in sustainability stems from a lifelong love of swimming, hiking, and exploring natural spaces.

While in school, Kristen interned at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve and worked on a variety of ecological research projects through the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior. Later, Kristen became more interested in sustainability while studying in Montpellier, France, a city known for its excellent public transportation system. This led her to spend over a year working at Metro Transit in the Twin Cities, where she led employee Green Teams, worked on environmental review for new light rail projects, and implemented a new waste management system to improve recycling rates. Today, Kristen works with the Sustainable Communities team at the Great Plains Institute in Minneapolis.

Away from the office, Kristen likes to spend her time rock climbing, cooking, thinking, speaking French, asking questions, and swimming in as many different lakes and streams as she can find.