In Memoriam
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SEI is deeply saddened to have lost one of our most cherished staff members, Mildred Church Dandridge, who had been with SEI since its inception in 1997.
Mildred was fundamental to the forming of SEI and helped write one of the first SEI grants in 1999. She acted as SEI’s Education Program Director until 2007, working with countless schools and engaging youth in their communities. She worked diligently to build SEI programs, where she engaged elementary through high school students to be part of the climate solution. She taught high school students to assess small business energy use, developed a year-long suite of curriculum scaffolding climate instruction for 4th and 5th graders. She worked with countless districts to use their facilities as a teaching tool, helping reduce energy use in schools through student and staff behavior change. Though she “retired” in 2007, she still remained a member of the SEI team and ran our Building Operators Certification Program and helped launch The School of Environmental Leadership (SEL). Mildred wrote key curriculum for both SEI and The SEL and assisted in laying the foundation for curriculum to receive University of California A-G approval for The SEL, as well as obtaining college credit for the courses. Throughout these contributions, Mildred sought ways to help train young people to take a clearly defined environmental leadership role in their communities. To honor Mildred’s legacy, The SEL established the Mildred Church Dandridge Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded each year to a SEL senior who exemplifies the joy, spirit, empathy, and selflessness that Mildred showed everyday, as well as their deep commitment to the environment. This scholarship goes toward furthering the recipient’s education at the college or university level. If you would like to support the Mildred Church Dandridge Memorial Scholarship, you can make a tax-deductible donation here. |
Staff Bios
ALEXIS FINEMAN, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Alexis supports SEI’s K-12 educational programming across California, including Zero Waste Marin and Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to joining SEI, Alexis worked as an elementary school teacher for an inquiry-based school, where she designed wide-ranging curriculum to integrate ecoliteracy into everyday lessons. In addition to her time in the classroom, Alexis has taught in school gardens, on working farms and ranches, and in the great outdoors. She is also passionate about the intersection of climate action and local policy, and she has served on the San Anselmo Town Council since 2019. In her role as a councilmember, she works to advance the implementation of the Town’s Climate Action Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Alexis holds a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from Wesleyan University and is certified in permaculture design.
Alexis supports SEI’s K-12 educational programming across California, including Zero Waste Marin and Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to joining SEI, Alexis worked as an elementary school teacher for an inquiry-based school, where she designed wide-ranging curriculum to integrate ecoliteracy into everyday lessons. In addition to her time in the classroom, Alexis has taught in school gardens, on working farms and ranches, and in the great outdoors. She is also passionate about the intersection of climate action and local policy, and she has served on the San Anselmo Town Council since 2019. In her role as a councilmember, she works to advance the implementation of the Town’s Climate Action Plan and Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan.
Alexis holds a bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from Wesleyan University and is certified in permaculture design.
ASH SPEARS, OPERATIONS ASSOCIATE
Ash currently supports SEI’s many programs as a member of the Human Resources team.
Before joining SEI, Ash gained thirteen years’ management, human resources, and recruiting experience in several leadership roles throughout the retail and service industries. Ash worked to further diversity, inclusion, and sustainability initiatives at multiple levels in prior roles and took pride specifically in measured waste reduction and in creating open, welcoming environments for everyone involved. Ash is focused on spreading awareness of the urgency of climate change, spends time volunteering in multiple fields, and works toward creating a communicative, efficient process in her work.
Ash has a Bachelor of Science degree in Visual Communication from Savannah College of Art & Design, and is currently working toward degrees in Human Resources Management and Business Administration
Ash currently supports SEI’s many programs as a member of the Human Resources team.
Before joining SEI, Ash gained thirteen years’ management, human resources, and recruiting experience in several leadership roles throughout the retail and service industries. Ash worked to further diversity, inclusion, and sustainability initiatives at multiple levels in prior roles and took pride specifically in measured waste reduction and in creating open, welcoming environments for everyone involved. Ash is focused on spreading awareness of the urgency of climate change, spends time volunteering in multiple fields, and works toward creating a communicative, efficient process in her work.
Ash has a Bachelor of Science degree in Visual Communication from Savannah College of Art & Design, and is currently working toward degrees in Human Resources Management and Business Administration
BEATRIX BERRY, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Beatrix supports the School of Environmental Leadership program, SEI’s K-12 educational programming across California, and the Climate Corps program.
Prior to joining SEI, Beatrix completed her Climate Corps Fellowship working with Marin School of Environmental Leadership (SEL) through SEI. Throughout her fellowship, she worked closely with SEL students, teachers, and parents to coordinate events, lead classes, and support the students through their project and community based learning. Before becoming a Climate Corps fellow, she worked as an outdoor and environmental educator in Texas, Vermont, and California. While educating students in an outdoor setting, she gained experience creating inquiry-based science curriculum and implementing experiential learning in an outdoor setting. She is passionate about increasing accessibility to the outdoors, to environmental and outdoor education, and to wilderness experiences.
Beatrix has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies with a minor is Special Education from the University of Vermont.
Beatrix supports the School of Environmental Leadership program, SEI’s K-12 educational programming across California, and the Climate Corps program.
Prior to joining SEI, Beatrix completed her Climate Corps Fellowship working with Marin School of Environmental Leadership (SEL) through SEI. Throughout her fellowship, she worked closely with SEL students, teachers, and parents to coordinate events, lead classes, and support the students through their project and community based learning. Before becoming a Climate Corps fellow, she worked as an outdoor and environmental educator in Texas, Vermont, and California. While educating students in an outdoor setting, she gained experience creating inquiry-based science curriculum and implementing experiential learning in an outdoor setting. She is passionate about increasing accessibility to the outdoors, to environmental and outdoor education, and to wilderness experiences.
Beatrix has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies with a minor is Special Education from the University of Vermont.
CYANE DANDRIDGE, FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Cyane Dandridge is the Founder and Executive Director of two nonprofit organizations: SEI and the School of Environmental Leadership. Shortly after receiving her M.S. in Building Technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cyane helped to design and launch leading-edge approaches to federal energy programs, which put her on a path to becoming a pioneer and thought leader in the environmental field. For more than 30 years, Cyane has brought energy efficiency, clean technology, and place-based sustainability solutions and career pathways to the academic, public, and private sectors. Cyane's entrepreneurial spirit, strategic collaborations, and commitment to equity are the foundation of her work to build leaders for a more resilient world.
Cyane Dandridge is the Founder and Executive Director of two nonprofit organizations: SEI and the School of Environmental Leadership. Shortly after receiving her M.S. in Building Technology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cyane helped to design and launch leading-edge approaches to federal energy programs, which put her on a path to becoming a pioneer and thought leader in the environmental field. For more than 30 years, Cyane has brought energy efficiency, clean technology, and place-based sustainability solutions and career pathways to the academic, public, and private sectors. Cyane's entrepreneurial spirit, strategic collaborations, and commitment to equity are the foundation of her work to build leaders for a more resilient world.
CAITRIN DEVINE, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT / OPERATIONS ASSOCIATE
Caitrin supports SEI’s Executive Director, Deputy Director, and the Operations Team. She developed a background in administrative support through many years of executive and administrative support roles. She has served as a volunteer for the City of Novato for ten years and as a PTA board member for her local elementary school. Caitrin has a Masters in Public Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Administration from San Francisco State University. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz.
Caitrin supports SEI’s Executive Director, Deputy Director, and the Operations Team. She developed a background in administrative support through many years of executive and administrative support roles. She has served as a volunteer for the City of Novato for ten years and as a PTA board member for her local elementary school. Caitrin has a Masters in Public Administration with an emphasis in Nonprofit Administration from San Francisco State University. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz.
DRU MARION, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Dru primarily supports the K-college education programs and Zero Waste Marin at SEI.
Before joining SEI, Dru coordinated sustainability programs at Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, where she taught a course on environmental leadership and worked to integrate sustainability into the school’s curriculum, culture, and physical campus. Previously, Dru supported the communications teams at environmental policy nonprofits Earthjustice and California Climate and Agriculture Network, and she has also coordinated environmental education programs in summer camp and after-school settings. She has Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy and Environmental Studies from Wesleyan University.
Dru primarily supports the K-college education programs and Zero Waste Marin at SEI.
Before joining SEI, Dru coordinated sustainability programs at Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland, where she taught a course on environmental leadership and worked to integrate sustainability into the school’s curriculum, culture, and physical campus. Previously, Dru supported the communications teams at environmental policy nonprofits Earthjustice and California Climate and Agriculture Network, and she has also coordinated environmental education programs in summer camp and after-school settings. She has Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy and Environmental Studies from Wesleyan University.
ELIZABETH BAGLEY, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Bagley is a Program Director at SEI primarily building sustainability leaders through partnerships with higher education institutions.
Elizabeth’s interdisciplinary background spans academia, business, and the nonprofit sector. Before joining SEI, Elizabeth led Drawdown Learn at Project Drawdown where she produced Climate Solutions 101, directed sustainability efforts at the California Academy of Sciences, and designed the science content for video games at LeapFrog. Elizabeth frequently speaks about climate solutions and was invited to create the LinkedIn Learning class, “An Employee’s Guide to Sustainability” which has engaged tens of thousands of learners from around the world. An experienced environmental educator, Elizabeth worked as a naturalist in Glacier National Park, taught middle and high school science in Louisiana, developed K-12 professional development for teachers, and designed a science communication course for graduate students.
Elizabeth holds joint PhDs in Environment & Resources and Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison where she studied how video games can encourage systems thinking about complex environmental topics.
Elizabeth Bagley is a Program Director at SEI primarily building sustainability leaders through partnerships with higher education institutions.
Elizabeth’s interdisciplinary background spans academia, business, and the nonprofit sector. Before joining SEI, Elizabeth led Drawdown Learn at Project Drawdown where she produced Climate Solutions 101, directed sustainability efforts at the California Academy of Sciences, and designed the science content for video games at LeapFrog. Elizabeth frequently speaks about climate solutions and was invited to create the LinkedIn Learning class, “An Employee’s Guide to Sustainability” which has engaged tens of thousands of learners from around the world. An experienced environmental educator, Elizabeth worked as a naturalist in Glacier National Park, taught middle and high school science in Louisiana, developed K-12 professional development for teachers, and designed a science communication course for graduate students.
Elizabeth holds joint PhDs in Environment & Resources and Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison where she studied how video games can encourage systems thinking about complex environmental topics.
EMILY COURTNEY, SENIOR PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Emily Courtney is the Director of the K-College education initiatives at SEI. At SEI she manages holistic school programs designed to make it easy and affordable to green school facilities while engaging students in energy conservation, education, and leadership. Emily has managed programs ranging from high school energy auditing internships to county-wide zero waste school initiatives. She has led curriculum development and teacher training in an array of sustainability fields, including solar design, green transportation, energy auditing, financial analysis for sustainability projects, climate change, and biomimicry.
Emily has a background in environmental, job skills, and entrepreneurship education. Prior to joining SEI, she was the Director of Green Technology Education at Laney College in Oakland, CA. Her focus is serving individuals and communities at the dynamic intersection of our economic, ecological, and social justice goals. Emily holds an MBA in Sustainable Enterprise from the GreenMBA program at Dominican University and a BA from Whitman College.
Emily Courtney is the Director of the K-College education initiatives at SEI. At SEI she manages holistic school programs designed to make it easy and affordable to green school facilities while engaging students in energy conservation, education, and leadership. Emily has managed programs ranging from high school energy auditing internships to county-wide zero waste school initiatives. She has led curriculum development and teacher training in an array of sustainability fields, including solar design, green transportation, energy auditing, financial analysis for sustainability projects, climate change, and biomimicry.
Emily has a background in environmental, job skills, and entrepreneurship education. Prior to joining SEI, she was the Director of Green Technology Education at Laney College in Oakland, CA. Her focus is serving individuals and communities at the dynamic intersection of our economic, ecological, and social justice goals. Emily holds an MBA in Sustainable Enterprise from the GreenMBA program at Dominican University and a BA from Whitman College.
GEORGE SPENCER, PROGRAM CONSULTANT
George uses he/they pronouns. He supports SEI’s education programs, focusing on Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to starting with SEI, George completed two years as an Americorps member, working with Education Outside as an instructor at Starr King Elementary in San Francisco. During his time, he focused on delivering STEM curriculum, modified to project-based and inquiry learning frameworks to activate students’ eco-literacy education. With a background in outdoor and experiential education, he is passionate about providing formative experiences for students in the outdoors to inspire a sustainable future.
George graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in 2016 with a BS in Environmental Health Science from the Gillings School of Global Public Health.
George uses he/they pronouns. He supports SEI’s education programs, focusing on Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to starting with SEI, George completed two years as an Americorps member, working with Education Outside as an instructor at Starr King Elementary in San Francisco. During his time, he focused on delivering STEM curriculum, modified to project-based and inquiry learning frameworks to activate students’ eco-literacy education. With a background in outdoor and experiential education, he is passionate about providing formative experiences for students in the outdoors to inspire a sustainable future.
George graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill in 2016 with a BS in Environmental Health Science from the Gillings School of Global Public Health.
GISELLE SERAFIN, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Giselle supports K-12 educational programing at SEI, including Energize Schools and Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to SEI, Giselle was a fellow for the Latinxs and the Environment Initiative at UC Berkeley. Through the initiative, she created and led the curriculum for an Introduction to Latinxs and the Environment class and a Latinxs and the Environment Internship program, which centered cultural identity and issues of the environment to prepare the next generation of Chicanx/Latinx student leaders in the environmental justice movement. She found her love for environmental education by interning with Berkeley Unified School District’s middle school garden and nutrition program and the Center for Cities and Schools Y-PLAN high school mentorship program.
Giselle recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences with a minor in Education from the University of California, Berkeley.
Giselle supports K-12 educational programing at SEI, including Energize Schools and Climate Corps Education Outside.
Prior to SEI, Giselle was a fellow for the Latinxs and the Environment Initiative at UC Berkeley. Through the initiative, she created and led the curriculum for an Introduction to Latinxs and the Environment class and a Latinxs and the Environment Internship program, which centered cultural identity and issues of the environment to prepare the next generation of Chicanx/Latinx student leaders in the environmental justice movement. She found her love for environmental education by interning with Berkeley Unified School District’s middle school garden and nutrition program and the Center for Cities and Schools Y-PLAN high school mentorship program.
Giselle recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences with a minor in Education from the University of California, Berkeley.
HERNÁN GALLO-CORNEJO, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Hernán oversees SEI’s communications, supports the Climate Corps program, and supports K-12 educational programming.
Prior to joining SEI, Hernán developed a background in environmental justice and water conservation through his positions at the Robert Redford Conservancy, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control and the Long Beach Water Department. Through his position at a water department, Hernán supported California’s largest lawn conversion program to promote water conservation and sustainability in Southern California. Previously, Hernán served at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Office of Environmental Justice and Tribal Affairs where he worked on educational and workforce development programming geared toward communities impacted by lead pollution in Southeast Los Angeles.
Hernán has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Policy with a focus on environmental justice and a minor in French from Pitzer College. He is currently enrolled in a Certificate in Project Management with the University of San Diego.
Hernán oversees SEI’s communications, supports the Climate Corps program, and supports K-12 educational programming.
Prior to joining SEI, Hernán developed a background in environmental justice and water conservation through his positions at the Robert Redford Conservancy, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control and the Long Beach Water Department. Through his position at a water department, Hernán supported California’s largest lawn conversion program to promote water conservation and sustainability in Southern California. Previously, Hernán served at the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Office of Environmental Justice and Tribal Affairs where he worked on educational and workforce development programming geared toward communities impacted by lead pollution in Southeast Los Angeles.
Hernán has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Policy with a focus on environmental justice and a minor in French from Pitzer College. He is currently enrolled in a Certificate in Project Management with the University of San Diego.
HANNAH MARYANSKI, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Based in Los Angeles, Hannah supports SEI’s education and workforce programs, including Energize Schools and Climate Corps.
Before joining SEI, Hannah gained a background in environmental studies and food systems at Santa Clara University, where she also completed a fellowship on the ethics of climate neutrality and worked as a research assistant analyzing fair trade certifications and environmental sustainability. As part of her Master’s at the University of Southern California, she consulted on the California Clean Energy Jobs Act K-12 Program. Her career also spans admission counseling at the University of Southern California and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as working at a legal services nonprofit through a post-graduate service fellowship.
Hannah has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Environmental Studies from Santa Clara University and a Master of Public Administration degree with a Certificate in Public Financial Management from the University of Southern California.
Based in Los Angeles, Hannah supports SEI’s education and workforce programs, including Energize Schools and Climate Corps.
Before joining SEI, Hannah gained a background in environmental studies and food systems at Santa Clara University, where she also completed a fellowship on the ethics of climate neutrality and worked as a research assistant analyzing fair trade certifications and environmental sustainability. As part of her Master’s at the University of Southern California, she consulted on the California Clean Energy Jobs Act K-12 Program. Her career also spans admission counseling at the University of Southern California and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as working at a legal services nonprofit through a post-graduate service fellowship.
Hannah has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Environmental Studies from Santa Clara University and a Master of Public Administration degree with a Certificate in Public Financial Management from the University of Southern California.
JACK NAYLOR, ASSOCIATE ACCOUNTING MANAGER
Jack manages the financial records and reporting of SEI’s programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Jack worked for three years as a Staff Accountant in the Business Services Office at Dominican University.
Jack holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Communications from Boston College. He also earned a Masters of Business Administration degree in Global Management from Dominican University of California while serving as Head Coach of the Lucas Valley Lightning Swim Team.
Jack manages the financial records and reporting of SEI’s programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Jack worked for three years as a Staff Accountant in the Business Services Office at Dominican University.
Jack holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Communications from Boston College. He also earned a Masters of Business Administration degree in Global Management from Dominican University of California while serving as Head Coach of the Lucas Valley Lightning Swim Team.
JAKE POLLACK, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Jake Pollack is a Program Manager at SEI. Jake’s primary focus is on higher education and workforce development.
Before joining SEI, Jake worked at the University of Oregon running a professional certificate in Sustainability Leadership for mid-career professionals. He also served as adjunct faculty in the Public Policy, Planning and Management department, guiding graduate students through an applied interdisciplinary program covering climate resilience and environmental justice.
Previously, Jake has worked in international settings in higher education, mentoring and training students in aspects of sustainability ranging from cross-cultural communication to organizational transformation. His Ph.D. research examined interdisciplinary and collaborative models of sustainability and a new triple bottom line of resilience, integrity, and commitment.
His sustainability career began in ecovillages and grassroots centers of innovation. He is now a leader in city-scale sustainability initiatives and cultivating cross-sector platforms for professionals who wish to accelerate and incubate projects that address our most significant community sustainability challenges.
Jake Pollack is a Program Manager at SEI. Jake’s primary focus is on higher education and workforce development.
Before joining SEI, Jake worked at the University of Oregon running a professional certificate in Sustainability Leadership for mid-career professionals. He also served as adjunct faculty in the Public Policy, Planning and Management department, guiding graduate students through an applied interdisciplinary program covering climate resilience and environmental justice.
Previously, Jake has worked in international settings in higher education, mentoring and training students in aspects of sustainability ranging from cross-cultural communication to organizational transformation. His Ph.D. research examined interdisciplinary and collaborative models of sustainability and a new triple bottom line of resilience, integrity, and commitment.
His sustainability career began in ecovillages and grassroots centers of innovation. He is now a leader in city-scale sustainability initiatives and cultivating cross-sector platforms for professionals who wish to accelerate and incubate projects that address our most significant community sustainability challenges.
JAMIE WOLLUM, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Jamie supports SEI’s educational programming, specifically focusing on the Climate Corps Education Outside program.
Before joining the team at SEI, Jamie has been facilitating environmental stewardship and ecoliteracy learning for students in the SF Bay Area since 2017. She first taught garden science to grades K-5 as an Education Outside Americorps fellow at Francis Scott Key elementary school in SFUSD, then led trips for young learners at San Francisco’s teaching garden, Garden for the Environment. Drawing on her background in food and farming, experiential education, and program development, Jamie aims to uplift a generation of curious, mindful, and motivated leaders taking on the challenges of our changing world.
Jamie graduated from Tufts University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.
Jamie supports SEI’s educational programming, specifically focusing on the Climate Corps Education Outside program.
Before joining the team at SEI, Jamie has been facilitating environmental stewardship and ecoliteracy learning for students in the SF Bay Area since 2017. She first taught garden science to grades K-5 as an Education Outside Americorps fellow at Francis Scott Key elementary school in SFUSD, then led trips for young learners at San Francisco’s teaching garden, Garden for the Environment. Drawing on her background in food and farming, experiential education, and program development, Jamie aims to uplift a generation of curious, mindful, and motivated leaders taking on the challenges of our changing world.
Jamie graduated from Tufts University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology.
JENNY LOW, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Jenny serves as Project Coordinator at SEI and supports sustainability workforce initiatives including Climate Corps and Energize Colleges.
Prior to joining SEI, Jenny has worked in the higher education sphere to move sustainability programs and initiatives forward. In her prior position as a Sustainability Coordinator at Occidental College, she built connections across the campus community, empowered student organizations, and managed wide-ranging sustainability programs from waste diversion to energy savings projects. She also standardized utility datasets and guided the Occidental Sustainable Investment Fund committee to start allocating their $3.5 million budget for major energy efficiency upgrades.
Jenny holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Integrative Biology from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Environmental Science and Management from the Bren School at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Jenny serves as Project Coordinator at SEI and supports sustainability workforce initiatives including Climate Corps and Energize Colleges.
Prior to joining SEI, Jenny has worked in the higher education sphere to move sustainability programs and initiatives forward. In her prior position as a Sustainability Coordinator at Occidental College, she built connections across the campus community, empowered student organizations, and managed wide-ranging sustainability programs from waste diversion to energy savings projects. She also standardized utility datasets and guided the Occidental Sustainable Investment Fund committee to start allocating their $3.5 million budget for major energy efficiency upgrades.
Jenny holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Integrative Biology from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Environmental Science and Management from the Bren School at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
KATIE ROGERS, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT
Katie consults on SEI’s communications and marketing efforts, supporting program teams working on a variety of environmental education and sustainability capacity-building projects.
Prior to joining SEI, Katie worked in marketing and advertising in California, New York City, and Seattle.
Katie holds a Masters of the Environment degree in Sustainability Planning & Management from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Anthropology from University of California, Santa Barbara.
Katie consults on SEI’s communications and marketing efforts, supporting program teams working on a variety of environmental education and sustainability capacity-building projects.
Prior to joining SEI, Katie worked in marketing and advertising in California, New York City, and Seattle.
Katie holds a Masters of the Environment degree in Sustainability Planning & Management from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Anthropology from University of California, Santa Barbara.
KATHERINE CHEN, NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP FELLOW
Katherine supports SEI’s K-12 educational programs and workforce development, including Zero Waste Marin, Energize Schools, and Climate Corps.
In joining SEI, Katherine brings her experience in outdoor youth science education, recreational leadership, and stewardship, connecting young people of many ages and backgrounds with the outdoors. Upon graduating from UC Santa Cruz, she joined Climate Corps as an Energize Colleges Fellow and Sustainability UX Associate at San Mateo County Community College District, where she supported over 20 inspiring Energize Colleges interns in energy and electrification projects. She brings a combined passion for understanding people’s attitudes and cultural relationships with the environment, and finding ways to create programs and experiences that inspire personal connections with nature, especially as they address historical barriers to access in nature and sustainability work.
Katherine earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Environmental Studies and General Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Katherine supports SEI’s K-12 educational programs and workforce development, including Zero Waste Marin, Energize Schools, and Climate Corps.
In joining SEI, Katherine brings her experience in outdoor youth science education, recreational leadership, and stewardship, connecting young people of many ages and backgrounds with the outdoors. Upon graduating from UC Santa Cruz, she joined Climate Corps as an Energize Colleges Fellow and Sustainability UX Associate at San Mateo County Community College District, where she supported over 20 inspiring Energize Colleges interns in energy and electrification projects. She brings a combined passion for understanding people’s attitudes and cultural relationships with the environment, and finding ways to create programs and experiences that inspire personal connections with nature, especially as they address historical barriers to access in nature and sustainability work.
Katherine earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Environmental Studies and General Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
KATRINA HAGEDORN, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Katrina supports SEI’s Green Workforce and K-College education programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Katrina developed a diverse background in sustainability and education. As a Fellow for the Harvard Office of Undergraduate Education, Katrina developed and implemented an unprecedented program that teaches students how to found innovative startups for social impact. In this role, she acted as guest lecturer and curriculum developer for 2 new Harvard undergraduate courses while supporting the growth of students and startups. Previously, Katrina worked as a Research Assistant for the Harvard Office for Sustainability to support Harvard’s Fossil Fuel Neutral by 2026 goal and inform University staff on best industry practices. Additionally, as a Sustainability Intern, Katrina furthered the Harvard University Sustainability Goals through project implementation, program development, recommendation and benchmarking reports, and community engagement campaigns.
Katrina has a Bachelor’s degree in Integrative Biology with a secondary in Energy and Environment from Harvard University.
Katrina supports SEI’s Green Workforce and K-College education programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Katrina developed a diverse background in sustainability and education. As a Fellow for the Harvard Office of Undergraduate Education, Katrina developed and implemented an unprecedented program that teaches students how to found innovative startups for social impact. In this role, she acted as guest lecturer and curriculum developer for 2 new Harvard undergraduate courses while supporting the growth of students and startups. Previously, Katrina worked as a Research Assistant for the Harvard Office for Sustainability to support Harvard’s Fossil Fuel Neutral by 2026 goal and inform University staff on best industry practices. Additionally, as a Sustainability Intern, Katrina furthered the Harvard University Sustainability Goals through project implementation, program development, recommendation and benchmarking reports, and community engagement campaigns.
Katrina has a Bachelor’s degree in Integrative Biology with a secondary in Energy and Environment from Harvard University.
KATY HALLAL, OPERATIONS COORDINATOR
Katy serves as Operations Coordinator, supporting SEI’s day-to-day operations.
Prior to joining SEI, Katy worked as a medical administrator and an architect. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from UC Berkeley, earned a Sustainable Practices Certificate from Dominican University, and is a graduate of the Environmental Forum of Marin.
Katy serves as Operations Coordinator, supporting SEI’s day-to-day operations.
Prior to joining SEI, Katy worked as a medical administrator and an architect. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from UC Berkeley, earned a Sustainable Practices Certificate from Dominican University, and is a graduate of the Environmental Forum of Marin.
KERRY STANWYCK, PRINCIPAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Kerry Stanwyck serves as SEI’s Principal Operations Director. Kerry directs business and finance operations for SEI, focusing on financial management, human resources, legal, finance and regulatory compliance, board of directors and staff processes, establishing operational protocol and internal controls. Kerry collaborates with the executive director on organizational management, fiscal planning, staffing, company policy. Kerry has over 25 years of experience in supervisory and managerial capacities, including fiscal management in the nonprofit sector, and assistant directing and production management for film and television.
Kerry Stanwyck serves as SEI’s Principal Operations Director. Kerry directs business and finance operations for SEI, focusing on financial management, human resources, legal, finance and regulatory compliance, board of directors and staff processes, establishing operational protocol and internal controls. Kerry collaborates with the executive director on organizational management, fiscal planning, staffing, company policy. Kerry has over 25 years of experience in supervisory and managerial capacities, including fiscal management in the nonprofit sector, and assistant directing and production management for film and television.
LAWRIE MANKOFF, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Lawrie supports the Climate Corps program, K-12 educational programming and SEI's communications.
Prior to joining SEI, Lawrie gained experience in environmental education by planning a series of energy efficiency workshops at elementary schools with Sustainable Claremont, and supporting citizen science and marine conservation education programs at REEF Environmental Education Foundation. Recently, she interned with the oceans team at Conservation Law Foundation where researched and wrote about issues related to their marine conservation campaigns. Lawrie is thrilled to continue in her passion for environmental education at SEI.
Lawrie has a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Analysis with a focus on environmental policy from Scripps College.
Lawrie supports the Climate Corps program, K-12 educational programming and SEI's communications.
Prior to joining SEI, Lawrie gained experience in environmental education by planning a series of energy efficiency workshops at elementary schools with Sustainable Claremont, and supporting citizen science and marine conservation education programs at REEF Environmental Education Foundation. Recently, she interned with the oceans team at Conservation Law Foundation where researched and wrote about issues related to their marine conservation campaigns. Lawrie is thrilled to continue in her passion for environmental education at SEI.
Lawrie has a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Analysis with a focus on environmental policy from Scripps College.
LISA RISTORUCCI, OPERATIONS MANAGER
Lisa is the Operations Manager at SEI with a focus on program support to facilitate optimal operations.
Lisa has a strong background in Environmental Activism in Marin County. Prior to joining the SEI team, Lisa was the founder and CEO of a successful errand and delivery company based in both Los Angeles County and the Bay Area. She holds a Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature from UCLA.
Lisa is the Operations Manager at SEI with a focus on program support to facilitate optimal operations.
Lisa has a strong background in Environmental Activism in Marin County. Prior to joining the SEI team, Lisa was the founder and CEO of a successful errand and delivery company based in both Los Angeles County and the Bay Area. She holds a Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature from UCLA.
LUCA SOERGEL, ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR
Luca serves as the Operations / Accounting Associate, supporting SEI’s day-to-day operations, programs, and financial reporting and recording.
Prior to joining SEI, Luca worked as a Banker and Administrative Assistant. Luca holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and a minor in History of Art and Architecture from University of California, Santa Barbara.
Luca serves as the Operations / Accounting Associate, supporting SEI’s day-to-day operations, programs, and financial reporting and recording.
Prior to joining SEI, Luca worked as a Banker and Administrative Assistant. Luca holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and a minor in History of Art and Architecture from University of California, Santa Barbara.
MEERA PARTHASARATHY, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Meera serves as Associate Program Manager at SEI and supports sustainability workforce initiatives including Climate Corps, Energize Careers and Energize Colleges.
As a licensed architect in Ohio, she has over twenty years of experience in the building industry with projects ranging from healthcare institutions to high-performance, green single-family & multi-family housing. She has worked both on the design side including LEED Platinum certified homes and on the compliance side for national green building & energy standards with energy modeling of multi-family housing projects.
In 2003, she founded the central Ohio based nonprofit, Columbus Green Building Forum, which has advanced the practices of sustainability through state-wide education programs and outreach efforts. Meera worked closely with The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, several local middle and high school districts in Ohio in establishing sustainability focused curriculum in these institutions.
Meera serves as Associate Program Manager at SEI and supports sustainability workforce initiatives including Climate Corps, Energize Careers and Energize Colleges.
As a licensed architect in Ohio, she has over twenty years of experience in the building industry with projects ranging from healthcare institutions to high-performance, green single-family & multi-family housing. She has worked both on the design side including LEED Platinum certified homes and on the compliance side for national green building & energy standards with energy modeling of multi-family housing projects.
In 2003, she founded the central Ohio based nonprofit, Columbus Green Building Forum, which has advanced the practices of sustainability through state-wide education programs and outreach efforts. Meera worked closely with The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, several local middle and high school districts in Ohio in establishing sustainability focused curriculum in these institutions.
NATHAN MCKENZIE, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Nathan manages workforce development and public agency programs for SEI, including Climate Corps and the Sustainable Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Fund. In addition, Nathan oversees SEI’s sustainable housing programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Nathan was an Assistant Researcher at Innovative Mobility Research where he conducted surveys, data analysis, and literature reviews on transit-oriented development innovations and best practices.
Nathan has a Bachelor of Science in Conservation and Resource Studies from University of California, Berkeley.
Nathan manages workforce development and public agency programs for SEI, including Climate Corps and the Sustainable Energy and Economic Development (SEED) Fund. In addition, Nathan oversees SEI’s sustainable housing programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Nathan was an Assistant Researcher at Innovative Mobility Research where he conducted surveys, data analysis, and literature reviews on transit-oriented development innovations and best practices.
Nathan has a Bachelor of Science in Conservation and Resource Studies from University of California, Berkeley.
PAUL JOHNSON, PACIFIC NORTHWEST EXPANSION LEAD
Paul Johnson leads the expansion of programs and services at SEI, specifically in the Pacific Northwest region.
Paul brings more than 45 years of experience developing and managing clean energy policies and programs in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. He designed, delivered, and implemented energy efficiency and sustainability programs over the course of 30 years with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Paul is a trained Climate Reality Project Leader and educates diverse community groups and leaders about climate change, its impacts, and solutions.
Paul Johnson leads the expansion of programs and services at SEI, specifically in the Pacific Northwest region.
Paul brings more than 45 years of experience developing and managing clean energy policies and programs in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. He designed, delivered, and implemented energy efficiency and sustainability programs over the course of 30 years with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Paul is a trained Climate Reality Project Leader and educates diverse community groups and leaders about climate change, its impacts, and solutions.
PETRUT ABABEI, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Petrut assists with the K-12 sustainability education efforts at SEI and provides support for the Climate Corps program. He has a strong interest in education and is passionate about integrated solutions to climate change induced challenges.
Prior to joining SEI, Petrut was a Teach for America corps member in Oakland, during which time he taught middle school technology and engineering classes at Education for Change Public Schools. Together with his students, he extensively used design thinking and project-based learning tools to engage with topics such as computer assisted design and modeling, automation and robotics, and basics of green architecture.
Petrut has a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Arizona State University and a Master of Science in Resource Efficiency in Architecture and Planning from HafenCity Universität Hamburg, Germany.
Petrut assists with the K-12 sustainability education efforts at SEI and provides support for the Climate Corps program. He has a strong interest in education and is passionate about integrated solutions to climate change induced challenges.
Prior to joining SEI, Petrut was a Teach for America corps member in Oakland, during which time he taught middle school technology and engineering classes at Education for Change Public Schools. Together with his students, he extensively used design thinking and project-based learning tools to engage with topics such as computer assisted design and modeling, automation and robotics, and basics of green architecture.
Petrut has a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Arizona State University and a Master of Science in Resource Efficiency in Architecture and Planning from HafenCity Universität Hamburg, Germany.
SHARON HOLLEY, ASSOCIATE CONTRACTS MANAGER
Sharon manages SEI’s contracts, supporting our partnerships and programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Sharon managed programs in zero waste, housing and homelessness, tidal and shoreland management, and NASA DEVELOP climate research internships for undergraduate and graduate students. Through her position at NASA, Sharon supported the Earth Science Directorates’ climate research projects, managing interns working directly with NASA Scientists in their specific fields of climate research. In addition, Sharon managed outreach and partnership coordination for NASA within Chesapeake Bay. Previously, Sharon served for Washington State Department of Natural Resources managing contracts and policies for tide lands and shore lands in Elliot Bay, the Green/Duwamish Estuary, and the greater Puget Sound.
Sharon holds a Master’s in Science and Space Policy from George Washington University, a Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from The Evergreen State College.
Sharon manages SEI’s contracts, supporting our partnerships and programs.
Prior to joining SEI, Sharon managed programs in zero waste, housing and homelessness, tidal and shoreland management, and NASA DEVELOP climate research internships for undergraduate and graduate students. Through her position at NASA, Sharon supported the Earth Science Directorates’ climate research projects, managing interns working directly with NASA Scientists in their specific fields of climate research. In addition, Sharon managed outreach and partnership coordination for NASA within Chesapeake Bay. Previously, Sharon served for Washington State Department of Natural Resources managing contracts and policies for tide lands and shore lands in Elliot Bay, the Green/Duwamish Estuary, and the greater Puget Sound.
Sharon holds a Master’s in Science and Space Policy from George Washington University, a Master’s in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from The Evergreen State College.
SOPHIA ZUG, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Sophia is a Program Director primarily supporting K-College education initiatives at SEI. Sophia manages statewide high school programs designed to engage and empower sustainability leadership. Sophia has led curriculum development focused in technical topics such as sustainability engineering, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Sophia has managed programs from energy conservation competitions to paid internship programs for college students. She leads program assessment, tracking, and reporting.
Before joining SEI, Sophia worked with school districts throughout the Bay Area on energy benchmarking and solar design.
Sophia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics with a minor in Energy and Resources from the University of California, Berkeley.
Sophia is a Program Director primarily supporting K-College education initiatives at SEI. Sophia manages statewide high school programs designed to engage and empower sustainability leadership. Sophia has led curriculum development focused in technical topics such as sustainability engineering, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Sophia has managed programs from energy conservation competitions to paid internship programs for college students. She leads program assessment, tracking, and reporting.
Before joining SEI, Sophia worked with school districts throughout the Bay Area on energy benchmarking and solar design.
Sophia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics with a minor in Energy and Resources from the University of California, Berkeley.
STEPHEN MILLER, DEPUTY DIRECTOR
While broadly supporting SEI, Stephen's program focus is on higher education and workforce initiatives, including directing SEI’s Energize Colleges and Climate Corps programs. Stephen also serves as Adjunct Faculty at Skyline College in San Bruno in the Science, Math & Technology Division to support the Climate Corps Climate Protection Professional graduate certificate.
Before SEI, Stephen worked to implement U.S. Department of Energy programs out of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Office, in support of energy-sustainable communities and the market adoption of solar energy across that 7-state region. Prior, Stephen directed market research for a new ventures division of Exelon (PECO Energy), after conducting similar work for a quantitative market research firm. In 2004, Stephen was one of 30 Philadelphia-area associates selected to complete the Environmental Leadership Program's pilot regional training series for emerging environmental leaders. Stephen holds a master's degree in business administration from St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, and an undergraduate degree in business from The Pennsylvania State University.
While broadly supporting SEI, Stephen's program focus is on higher education and workforce initiatives, including directing SEI’s Energize Colleges and Climate Corps programs. Stephen also serves as Adjunct Faculty at Skyline College in San Bruno in the Science, Math & Technology Division to support the Climate Corps Climate Protection Professional graduate certificate.
Before SEI, Stephen worked to implement U.S. Department of Energy programs out of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Office, in support of energy-sustainable communities and the market adoption of solar energy across that 7-state region. Prior, Stephen directed market research for a new ventures division of Exelon (PECO Energy), after conducting similar work for a quantitative market research firm. In 2004, Stephen was one of 30 Philadelphia-area associates selected to complete the Environmental Leadership Program's pilot regional training series for emerging environmental leaders. Stephen holds a master's degree in business administration from St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia, and an undergraduate degree in business from The Pennsylvania State University.
STEPHANIE DOI, FUNDRAISING AND DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE MANAGER
Stephanie implements and collaborates on fundraising initiatives, community and corporate partnerships, and advocacy and communication efforts to support SEI’s mission and programming.
Prior to joining the SEI team, Stephanie worked as a development professional at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California in San Francisco managing and supporting fundraising campaigns and events, individual giving and donor correspondence, community partnerships, and communications.
Stephanie enters the sustainability space with a professional, volunteer, and personal background focused on cultural sovereignty, community building, and racial equity. She looks forward to working in the sustainability and education sphere with a community-centric lens to reimagine and build an equitable and sustainable world. She graduated from Claremont McKenna College in 2017 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Human Rights, Genocide, and Holocaust Sequence.
Stephanie implements and collaborates on fundraising initiatives, community and corporate partnerships, and advocacy and communication efforts to support SEI’s mission and programming.
Prior to joining the SEI team, Stephanie worked as a development professional at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California in San Francisco managing and supporting fundraising campaigns and events, individual giving and donor correspondence, community partnerships, and communications.
Stephanie enters the sustainability space with a professional, volunteer, and personal background focused on cultural sovereignty, community building, and racial equity. She looks forward to working in the sustainability and education sphere with a community-centric lens to reimagine and build an equitable and sustainable world. She graduated from Claremont McKenna College in 2017 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Human Rights, Genocide, and Holocaust Sequence.
TTRISS WILLIAMS RENARD, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
TTriss is a consultant to Berkeley Unified School District, partnering to develop and implement its district-wide Sustainability Plan. Through curriculum development, grant writing and instructional support, she advances SEI’s academic programs – namely, Energize Schools.
TTriss came to SEI after six years in Paris, where she worked at the historic COP21, and developed a project-based curriculum as a Profession Libérale, designing and leading workshops in sustainability education for young English language learners. Prior to her time in France, she developed advanced models for inventory management during six years as an analyst and planner.
Through a strategy and systems lens, she is dedicated to innovation for a sustainably equitable future.
TTriss holds an MBA from San Francisco State University with focus on Sustainability and Decision Sciences, and a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and French from Scripps College.
TTriss is a consultant to Berkeley Unified School District, partnering to develop and implement its district-wide Sustainability Plan. Through curriculum development, grant writing and instructional support, she advances SEI’s academic programs – namely, Energize Schools.
TTriss came to SEI after six years in Paris, where she worked at the historic COP21, and developed a project-based curriculum as a Profession Libérale, designing and leading workshops in sustainability education for young English language learners. Prior to her time in France, she developed advanced models for inventory management during six years as an analyst and planner.
Through a strategy and systems lens, she is dedicated to innovation for a sustainably equitable future.
TTriss holds an MBA from San Francisco State University with focus on Sustainability and Decision Sciences, and a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and French from Scripps College.
TYLER VALDES, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Tyler supports SEI’s K-12 educational programming in San Diego, including Energize Schools and Energize Colleges.
Tyler comes to SEI with a strong background in sustainability, environmental education, and climate science communications. As an early-career professional, Tyler has had experience working for universities, nonprofits, and local government supporting cultural and behavioral change through educational programming. During his graduate studies, Tyler served as the UC San Diego Carbon Neutrality Initiative Student Engagement Fellow and as an intern with the Port of San Diego’s Energy and Sustainability team. Previously, Tyler served at the UC Irvine Sustainability Resource Center where he managed innovative student projects and programs that advanced community resilience to climate change.
Tyler holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Earth System Science from UC Irvine and a Master’s Degree in Climate Science and Policy from Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego.
Tyler supports SEI’s K-12 educational programming in San Diego, including Energize Schools and Energize Colleges.
Tyler comes to SEI with a strong background in sustainability, environmental education, and climate science communications. As an early-career professional, Tyler has had experience working for universities, nonprofits, and local government supporting cultural and behavioral change through educational programming. During his graduate studies, Tyler served as the UC San Diego Carbon Neutrality Initiative Student Engagement Fellow and as an intern with the Port of San Diego’s Energy and Sustainability team. Previously, Tyler served at the UC Irvine Sustainability Resource Center where he managed innovative student projects and programs that advanced community resilience to climate change.
Tyler holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Earth System Science from UC Irvine and a Master’s Degree in Climate Science and Policy from Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UC San Diego.