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
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.
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.
EMILY COURTNEY, 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.
FERNANDO GIL, NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP FELLOW
Fernando supports SEI through K-12 educational programs such as Energize Schools, and curriculum development through BWET.
Before joining SEI, Fernando gained ample experience within the field of environmental engineering, primarily dealing with 3D modeling, renewable energy and water filtration. This includes his work with Engineers without Borders to create a solar-powered water filtration system for an orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico. Additionally, Fernando was heavily involved in outreach done by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Through his position as outreach chair, he organized dozens of STEM-based events for underrepresented students in San Diego county. He has also performed research on ocean acidification at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography.
Fernando has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of California, San Diego. He is also licensed as an Engineer-in-Training within the state of California.
Fernando supports SEI through K-12 educational programs such as Energize Schools, and curriculum development through BWET.
Before joining SEI, Fernando gained ample experience within the field of environmental engineering, primarily dealing with 3D modeling, renewable energy and water filtration. This includes his work with Engineers without Borders to create a solar-powered water filtration system for an orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico. Additionally, Fernando was heavily involved in outreach done by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). Through his position as outreach chair, he organized dozens of STEM-based events for underrepresented students in San Diego county. He has also performed research on ocean acidification at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography.
Fernando has a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of California, San Diego. He is also licensed as an Engineer-in-Training within the state of California.
GEORGE SPENCER, PROJECT COORDINATOR
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, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Giselle supports K-12 educational programing at SEI, including Energize Schools and 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 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, PROJECT COORDINATOR
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.
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.
JACK NAYLOR, ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR
Jack serves as Accounting Coordinator, supporting 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 serves as Accounting Coordinator, supporting 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 MANAGER
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.
JESSICA REDDEN, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Jessica supports K-12 educational programming at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Prior to joining SEI, Jessica interned at the City of Berkeley Zero Waste Division. There she implemented composing and recycling systems in city facilities, conducted zero waste staff trainings, and developed employee zero waste guides and resources. She is ecstatic to join the SEI team and continue to pursue her passion for sustainability education.
Jessica recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of California, Berkeley.
Jessica supports K-12 educational programming at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Prior to joining SEI, Jessica interned at the City of Berkeley Zero Waste Division. There she implemented composing and recycling systems in city facilities, conducted zero waste staff trainings, and developed employee zero waste guides and resources. She is ecstatic to join the SEI team and continue to pursue her passion for sustainability education.
Jessica recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of California, Berkeley.
KATIE ROGERS, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Katie leads 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 leads 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.
KATY HALLAL, OPERATIONS COORDINATOR / EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Katy serves as Executive Assistant, 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 Executive Assistant, 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, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Kerry Stanwyck serves as SEI’s 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 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.
LAUREN AZZOLA, PROJECT COORDINATOR
Lauren supports K-12 educational programming at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Recently relocated from Boston, Lauren brings a background in energy technology and education from her internship experiences at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, MIT’s Energy Initiative, and EnerNOC, Inc., an Enel Group company. In her roles, she worked on a number of projects including Massachusetts’ solar rebate program, organizing the Discover Energy Pre-Orientation program for MIT freshmen, and processing incoming orders for Demand Response programs and Energy Intelligence software. She’s very excited to continue to learn and grow in her new role at SEI!
Lauren recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Law and Public Policy from Northeastern University.
Lauren supports K-12 educational programming at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Recently relocated from Boston, Lauren brings a background in energy technology and education from her internship experiences at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, MIT’s Energy Initiative, and EnerNOC, Inc., an Enel Group company. In her roles, she worked on a number of projects including Massachusetts’ solar rebate program, organizing the Discover Energy Pre-Orientation program for MIT freshmen, and processing incoming orders for Demand Response programs and Energy Intelligence software. She’s very excited to continue to learn and grow in her new role at SEI!
Lauren recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Law and Public Policy from Northeastern University.
LAWRIE MANKOFF, ASSOCIATE PROJECT COORDINATOR
Lawrie supports the K-12 education programs at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
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 recently received a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Analysis with a focus on environmental policy from Scripps College.
Lawrie supports the K-12 education programs at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
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 recently received 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.
LIZ FITZPATRICK, ASSOCIATE PROGRAM MANAGER
Liz manages SEI’s Southern California workforce education and training programs from her base in San Diego. She is a technical education specialist, working on the Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps programs to support students, teachers, faculty, interns, and Fellows to create leaders in the new green energy workforce.
Prior to joining SEI, Liz worked for environmental consulting, remediation and engineering design firms. In her previous position, Liz was as an environmental engineer at Good Earthkeeping Organization where she focused on initial project design and reporting for gas thermal remediation projects internationally. Liz then traveled in Southeast Asia and spent time volunteering with Save Elephant Foundation in Thailand where she taught local children about sustainable practices and truly realized her passion for environmental education.
Liz received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Connecticut and is a registered Engineer in Training (EIT).
Liz manages SEI’s Southern California workforce education and training programs from her base in San Diego. She is a technical education specialist, working on the Energize Schools, Energize Colleges, and Climate Corps programs to support students, teachers, faculty, interns, and Fellows to create leaders in the new green energy workforce.
Prior to joining SEI, Liz worked for environmental consulting, remediation and engineering design firms. In her previous position, Liz was as an environmental engineer at Good Earthkeeping Organization where she focused on initial project design and reporting for gas thermal remediation projects internationally. Liz then traveled in Southeast Asia and spent time volunteering with Save Elephant Foundation in Thailand where she taught local children about sustainable practices and truly realized her passion for environmental education.
Liz received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Connecticut and is a registered Engineer in Training (EIT).
LUCA SOERGEL, OPERATIONS/ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE
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.
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, PROJECT COORDINATOR
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.
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.
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. She is also Project Manager for the 2020 Bay Area Green Careers Conference. 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. She is also Project Manager for the 2020 Bay Area Green Careers Conference. 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, NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP FELLOW
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.
YESENIA PEREZ, NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP FELLOW
Yesenia supports the K-12 educational programs at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Yesenia comes to SEI with a background in environmental education through her experiences at various organizations throughout the greater Bay Area such as Bay Area Scientists in Schools and Conscious Kitchen where she worked to address food inequities and climate change education. Prior to SEI, Yesenia served as a research assistant for the Energy and Environmental Policy Lab at UC Berkeley. Through her research, Yesenia mapped varieties of climate governance and analyzed a range of institutional features that impact climate policy outcomes.
Yesenia recently received a Bachelor of Science in Society and Environment with a focus in Global Environmental Politics & Policy. She also holds minors in both Global Public Health and Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley.
Yesenia supports the K-12 educational programs at SEI, including Energize Schools and Zero Waste Marin.
Yesenia comes to SEI with a background in environmental education through her experiences at various organizations throughout the greater Bay Area such as Bay Area Scientists in Schools and Conscious Kitchen where she worked to address food inequities and climate change education. Prior to SEI, Yesenia served as a research assistant for the Energy and Environmental Policy Lab at UC Berkeley. Through her research, Yesenia mapped varieties of climate governance and analyzed a range of institutional features that impact climate policy outcomes.
Yesenia recently received a Bachelor of Science in Society and Environment with a focus in Global Environmental Politics & Policy. She also holds minors in both Global Public Health and Public Policy from the University of California, Berkeley.