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Meet the Summit Speakers
Education Session:
Environmental Literacy – The Key to Inspired, Authentic, and Rigorous Learning
Dr. Timothy Baird is a nationally recognized speaker and author on school leadership, sustainability, and innovation. He works with the Green Schools National Network supporting school districts on school sustainability. He also serves as the co-chair of the District Leaders’ Working Group for The California Environmental Literacy Initiative, and as a board member for the Classroom of the Future Foundation. He earned his Ed. D. from the University of Southern California and his MA, administrative credential, teaching credential, and BA from California State University, Fullerton.
Dr. Baird has served for 39 years as a public-school educator. He has served as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent during his career. He recently retired as superintendent of the Encinitas
Union School District. During his 10-year tenure in Encinitas, the district earned the California and U.S. Green Ribbon District distinction in 2014. Under Dr. Baird’s leadership, EUSD built Farm Lab, a 10-acre organic farm and student research and design center, that provides organic food to the food service program and functions as a research and design facility for all
district students. The Encinitas Union School District has also earned numerous awards for sustainability, educational programs, technology use, student
performance, and innovation.
Education Sessions:
Catalyzing Environmental Action Through School Board Policy
Matthew Belasco is the Director of Maintenance, Operations, and Transportation for the Pittsburg Unified School District. Mr. Belasco is currently leading a diverse team, overseeing the daily management of maintenance, safety and custodial services of school buildings and grounds, as well as the bussing and transportation needs for the 10,500 student District. He is working collaboratively with colleagues to institute a Net Zero Energy operation. He has initiated strategic energy management policies and procedures that have saved monies, as well as reduced consumption of natural resources. In the grounds department, he is working at reducing the use of pesticides and chemicals to maintain weed and pest control. Mr. Belasco also has procured a new School bus fleet consisting of Propane and Zero emission, full electric buses.
Mr. Belasco was the former Director of Child Nutrition at Pittsburg Unified, where he received an invitation from the US President’s office to have District students assist with the Fall Harvest of the White House garden with the First Lady. His career has included work at Tracy and Stockton Unified School Districts, Head Start, and private restaurants Overall, he has over 25 years in the Education management field.
Education Sessions:
Creating Sustainability: From Initial Design, to Implementation, to Next Steps
Katie Bezayiff is a dedicated educator with over 11 years of experience, having taught in Gilroy, San Jose, and now in Fullerton. She has made a lasting impact as a PBIS coach, helping her school achieve Platinum status for its positive behavioral programs. Katie also pioneered the Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program at Maple, successfully leading it for the past seven years.
Katie contributed to the development of the current initiatives and sustainability practices at her school, with a strong focus on environmental literacy at the elementary school level. Her efforts centered around project-based and experiential learning, collaborating with fellow teachers and administrators to create a hands-on, immersive educational experience for students.
Her work has earned her several accolades, including being named California League of Educators Region 11 Teacher of the Year, a top California finalist, and one of OC Parenting’s Top 20 Teachers in 2024.
Katie holds a psychology degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a master’s degree and teaching credential from the University of California, Irvine. She has a deep love for children’s literature, with the Harry Potter series and “Pickle Things” among her favorite books.
Education Sessions:
What’s New for 2025 in the Energy Code
Embodied Carbon and CALGreen
Nick Brown is President of Build Smart Group, an independent energy consultancy focused on California’s residential and nonresidential energy modeling, energy code, and building performance. He supports builders and architects in creating energy-efficient living and commercial spaces. Nick is a Certified Energy Analyst (CEA) for residential and an Associate Energy Analyst (AEA) for nonresidential projects, accredited by the California Association of Building Energy Consultants (CABEC). As a Subject Matter Expert on the Energy Code Ace statewide education team, he teaches classes for Southern California Edison on topics including Net Zero Design, All-Electric Homes, Heat Pumps, and PV and Battery Systems. Currently, Nick is involved with a CalSEED team researching phase change material applications in HVAC systems. He has been a member of CABEC’s Board of Directors since 2018.
Nick holds a BA in Economics from Princeton University and an MBA in Manufacturing from the University of Michigan. His hands-on experience includes a deep energy retrofit of his own home in 2014 and an All-Electric Net Zero Carbon ADU built in 2022, which serves as a living lab. Before founding Build Smart, he was President of Merlex Stucco, a $15 million manufacturer in Southern California for 15 years.
Education Session:
Building Excellence: The Blueprint for High-Performance Environments & the Financial Advantage
As the Technical Director for CHPS (Collaborative for High Performance Schools), Alex Buchanan leads a team to certify school buildings across the country. She brings broad experience and expertise to advancing sustainable school design, advocates for green building practices, and supports design teams in creating healthier, more energy-efficient learning environments. Before joining CHPS, Alex worked as a commissioning engineer, consulting on projects aiming for energy-efficient design and green building certifications, with a focus on K-12 schools and higher education. She also gained hands-on experience in construction management with a design-build firm, deepening her understanding of building design and construction. Alex is a LEED AP BD+C and holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Iowa State University and a Master of Architecture from the University of Colorado Denver.
Education Session:
Climate Action Planning – Scary Beast or Launchpad for Positive Transformation?
Cody Carpino serves as a Program Director in Northern California specializing in the planning and implementation of K-12 and community college projects. Previously, he was Principal in Charge of Learning Environments for an architecture firm where he managed multiple projects in various delivery methods. He brings a wealth of experience in project management and construction administration as well as strives for effective communication with all clients and team members.
Cody is a licensed architect and currently serves as President on the American Institute of Architects Central Valley Board of Directors.
Education Session:
Environmental Literacy & Indoor Air Quality: A Community Schools Based Response
Marc Carrel, President & CEO, joined Breathe Southern California in that role in 2017, and since then, has expanded the organization’s successful and impactful programming, broadened its service area (from one county to six counties), strengthened its advocacy efforts, and grown it budget. Prior to joining Breathe SoCal, Marc spent nearly a decade at the South Coast AQMD where he managed community and public affairs programs including coordinating briefings and workshops for civic leaders, government officials, and community members on air quality and clean technologies. He led the South Coast AQMD’s environmental justice (EJ) programs and planned their first three annual EJ conferences. He also oversaw federal government relations and public policy efforts where he established a national coalition to promote clean transportation technology and was successful in obtaining key provisions in two major federal transportation laws to make it easier to clean the air in Southern California.
Education Session:
How Our Rain Gardens and Bioswales Build and Provide the Best Learning Environment for Our Children
Dr. Cecile Carson is a recognized leader in developing innovative litter, illegal dumping, recycling, and civic engagement programs. Cecile’s career spans 30 years in government, nonprofit, and academic settings and serves as the Executive Team Leader for Keep California Beautiful. In her role with KCB, Carson manages the Clean California Community Designation and K-12 programs as part of the Caltrans Initiative and Climate Action Days in 12 counties in collaboration with CalVolunteers. She has served as a coordinator and lead researcher on creating participatory science litter methodology through a US EPA grant in partnership with SacState. She serves on the Executive Team for the California Resource Recovery Association (CRRA) K-12 Technical Council. Dr. Carson conducts nationwide research, including Louisiana’s first statewide litter plan, Texas and Louisiana roadway litter study, and a baseline study on Pennsylvania and South Carolina litter law enforcement. She obtained a doctorate in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University.
Education Session:
Building Excellence: The Blueprint for High-Performance Environments & the Financial Advantage
As Chief Eco-Sustainability Officer for the Los Angeles Unified School District, Christos Chrysiliou is responsible for visioning, development and implementation of sustainability and energy initiatives with the goal of reducing the District’s carbon and water footprint, increasing campus greening, and promoting climate literacy. Prior to this position, Christos served as the Director of Architecture and Engineering (A&E) Services for over a decade with the Facilities Services Division of the LAUSD. He has been at the forefront of LAUSD’s efforts to promote sustainable design practices, the clean energy and decarbonization transition, campus ecology and healthier, more eco-friendly school environments.
Education Session:
A District-Wide Comprehensive Approach to Sustainability in Schools
Lisa Clarke is the founder and executive director of Sustainable Marin Schools, an organization committed to reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainability in K-12 public schools. With a background as an epidemiologist in cancer research, Lisa’s journey into sustainability began when she came to understand that climate change is the most significant threat to public health that our children will face.
Her hands-on experience with zero waste programs at her children’s elementary school, combined with extensive research into best practices nationwide, led her to establish Sustainable Marin Schools. Her mission is clear: to help schools curb their carbon footprints, reduce waste, create green, climate-resilient campuses, and empower students to become environmental advocates and future leaders in the green economy.
Currently, Lisa partners with the Novato Unified School District, delivering comprehensive programs in Zero Waste, Decarbonization, Campus Greening/Resilience, and Environmental Literacy across 10 schools. In this presentation, she will share her approach, the successes and challenges encountered along the way, and how this model can inspire and be replicated in other districts to make lasting environmental impacts.
Education Session:
CLASS Study Hall – Leveraging Federal Programs to Further Sustainability
Alison Diaz is the Founder of Environmental Charter Schools, and the Executive Director & CEO that has lead a dynamic team to develop award-winning schools. Environmental Charter High School is ranked in the top 3% of U.S. public high schools by U.S. News & World Report, and was chosen as one of three national finalists in President Obama’s Race to the Top Commencement Challenge. ECS was in the first round of schools to be given the Department of Education’s inaugural Green Ribbon Award in environmental and sustainability education and Environmental Charter Middle School – Gardena received the 2015 California Gold Ribbon Schools Award for academic excellence. ECS schools were also named as Top Los Angeles Public Schools for Underserved Students, by Innovate Public Schools. In June 2019, Alison transitioned into the role of Director of Growth and Sustainability. In this role, she focuses on school growth, leading the expansion of high quality charter school seats into which ECS middle schoolers may matriculate through the launch of ECHS Gardena in 2020-2021. She also manages mission-aligned green school facilities development, management and operations, spearheads sustainability initiatives, liaises with national and local green school partners and oversees development, partnerships and advocacy.
Education Session:
Engage Students to Take Action to Conserve Resources, Protect the Environment, and Prepare for Climate Change
Jess Dominick is a Sustainability Specialist at the San Mateo County Sustainability Department who coordinates youth climate education programming for middle and high schoolers. With a background in environmental education, community engagement, and sustainable design, they work towards cultivating curiosity and passion in the outdoors and in the classroom.
Education Session:
Building Excellence: The Blueprint for High-Performance Environments & the Financial Advantage
Eric Driever has been the Principal Architect at the Division of the State Architect HQ /Codes and Standards since October 2021, he is responsible for management of DSA access, fire/life safety and sustainability programs, for regulation development and interpretation for CALGreen for schools and for CBC Chapter 11B Access Code. As the Principal Architect he is also responsible for oversight of the CASp Program and the Executive Director of the Historical Building Safety Board.
Eric has 9 years prior experience as Senior and Supervising Architect with the Department of General Services/RESD and managing the Access Barrier Removal Program, in addition to responsibilities as Senior and Supervising Architect. Eric Driever has 15 years’ prior experience in private architectural firms focused on schools and other commercial projects.
Education Session:
School Greening through the Safe Clean Water Program
Simone Drucker is a designer with over 15 years of multi-disciplinary experience. Her passion for graphic design, studio arts, and California’s diverse ecosystems and plant communities brought her to landscape architecture. In her design work and research, she looks for opportunities to bring the influence of native ecosystems into programmed spaces, blurring the urban-wildland interface to enlighten, educate, and empower people. Simone has worked on designs for over a dozen LAUSD School Sites, which include Green Infrastructure strategies. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Art in Industrial Design from Rhode Island School of Design and her Landscape Architecture Certificate from UCLA. She is based in our Los Angeles studio.
Education Session:
Exploring Subsurface Irrigation for Lawns, Shrubs & Tree’s
Horticulturalist Nick Federoff has been a staple in green communications since 1986. He travels the country addressing contemporary environmental issues for the trades and consumers alike. Since 1988 he’s been hosting a weekly 2-hour syndicated radio show heard throughout the country along with a daily vignette. He is entering his 27th season his award winning weekly television show, Things Green, that airs on PBS|KLCS TV Saturday mornings at 9AM and has produced/featured in over 650 “In the Garden” segments for CBS|KCAL 9 News, Los Angeles. In addition he has was the first communicator induced into the Green Industry Hall of Fame.
Education Session:
California Schools Face the Heat: Innovative HVAC Solutions for Energy Efficiency and Safer Air
John Fraser-Mifsud (JFM) serves as the President of Seeley International Americas, a fully owned subsidiary of Seeley International, a global leader in climate control solutions headquartered in Australia. With a Master’s degree in Architectural and Building Design Science from the University of Sydney, John earned multiple prestigious university awards, with his research on Thermal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality in the Built Environment achieving honours and high distinction.
With over 35 years of experience, John has consistently led innovation in heat pump and refrigeration technologies, carving a prominent path in the development of advanced, energy-efficient solutions. He now spearheads efforts to promote the most efficient cooling technology available today, positioning himself at the cutting edge of sustainable climate solutions .John’s mission goes beyond technological advancement—it encompasses a holistic approach to improving the built environment.
His work focuses not only on reducing carbon footprints and optimizing energy use but also on enhancing the quality of life through improved indoor conditions. His vision spans diverse industries and applications, where he strives to tackle multifaceted challenges with innovative, human centered solutions, always driving towards excellence in both sustainability and human well-being.
John lives in the United States, Minnesota.
Education Session:
Reusables in the Cafeteria: A School District’s Journey to Zero Waste
Celeste Felix has been employed at the Nutrition Policy Institute for three years. During this time, she has applied her knowledge in Master of Public Health Nutrition to various studies that concentrate on federally funded food programs for young children and their families in the U.S., including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and the National School Lunch Program.
Education Sessions:
Catalyzing Environmental Action Through School Board Policy
Growing Minds, Greener Futures: Integrating SEL and Environmental Literacy through Nature-Based
Learning
Sustainability in Action: Building a Culture of Climate Resilience in Schools
Gloria Harwood is the Coordinator of Environmental Literacy for Laguna Beach Unified School District and co-chair of the CAELI District Innovation Hub. With a master’s in environmental studies from California State University, Fullerton, Gloria has led projects focused on air quality and access to green spaces. She plays a role in LBUSD’s sustainability task force, guiding instructional efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
Gloria directs all Green Teams across the district, providing students and staff with opportunities to engage in sustainability projects. She directs professional learning for educators, integrating environmental literacy into classroom practices, while also fostering community partnerships that connect learning with local environmental actions.
Her work expands to mental health and nature connections, place-based learning, and outdoor education, conducting living schoolyard assessments to create sustainable outdoor spaces. Gloria also leads the district’s Green Ribbon Award application, highlighting LBUSD’s environmental achievements. Through her leadership, she ensures that sustainability and environmental literacy are central to the district’s educational mission
Education Session:
School Greening through the Safe Clean Water Program
Dr. Dustin L. Herrmann is currently the Principal Scientist and Director of the Research Program at the Southern California nonprofit organization TreePeople. His 15+ years of research is on many facets of social-ecological systems grounded in an educational training in urban ecosystem ecology. In his role at TreePeople, he leads projects that incorporate this scientific expertise with community engagement, environmental education, and environmental planning. The objective of the work is to improve social equity and climate resilience in greater Los Angeles through nature-based solutions. He brings specialized knowledge in field and data science around understanding urban ecosystems and extensive experience in multi-disciplinary and cross-organizational collaborations.
Education Session:
Creating Sustainability: From Initial Design, to Implementation, to Next Steps
Christine Hervey-Murray is a highly skilled educator with over two decades of teaching experience at Maple School in the Fullerton School District.
Throughout her career, Christine has been involved in various school and district initiatives and committees, including technology integration, assessment, and professional learning. She has mentored new teachers and piloted programs in social science and English language development (ELD).
Christine holds a Masters degree in Teaching from Southern Oregon University and a Psychology degree from Western Oregon University.
Christine dreams that her students will experience the same joy she felt as a child, building tree forts in the forest and as an adult exploring the ocean’s waves. She hopes they develop a deep love for both land and sea, learning creativity, resilience, and peace from the natural world, just as she did growing up surrounded by its beauty.
Education Session:
Engage Students to Take Action to Conserve Resources, Protect the Environment, and Prepare for Climate Change
Julie Hilborn is the Coordinator of Environmental Literacy and Sustainability at the San Mateo County Office of Education. She joined SMCOE in September of 2022 after a multi-faceted career in the formal and informal science and environmental education sectors across K-12 and the university levels. She supervises the Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Initiative at SMCOE, which provides support to San Mateo County Schools in prioritizing environmental literacy and integrating environmental sustainability and climate-ready practices across school campuses, curriculum, community, and culture. Julie holds a BA In Human Biology from Stanford, an MA from San Jose State, an administrative credential from SMCOE and a teaching credential from San Francisco State. Her husband Tim is a middle school technology teacher, with whom she shares twin 13 year-old boys. They all enjoy hiking and traveling together in the mountains of California.
Education Session:
Sustainable Solutions: Designing a Net-Zero Energy Campus
Tess Hooper is a Project Manager with The Energy Coalition (TEC) and supports Education and Workforce Development through curriculum development, educator engagement, and supervising California Climate Action Corps Fellows. Tess received her Master’s from the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management at UC Santa Barbara in 2020 and completed her thesis on the analysis of the environmental impacts of environmental education on nature preserves. Before graduate school, Tess was a middle school Science and STEAM teacher in Philadelphia. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Tess likes to spend her free time backpacking, hiking, and motorcycling.
Education Session:
Preparing Our Youth for Careers Focused on
Climate Change Mitigation
Dana Howard is the Director of Communications, Outreach, Recruitment and Enrollment (CORE) for the California Conservation Corps. Seeing first-hand how the CCC’s mission transforms the lives of young adults motivates him to spread the word about the tremendous impact the Corps makes daily. Dana oversees the CCC’s communication, marketing and outreach and develops the heart touching stories of how the Corps is setting lives on a positive and fulfilling direction. He also leads CCC recruitment and enrollment in developing a smooth enrollment process and targeting under-represented segments of California’s young adults.
Prior to the CCC, Dana served the state of California as Deputy Director of Communications and Public Relations for Covered California. He helped lead and implement the communications strategy for Covered California’s historic first open enrollment. Dana was the principal spokesperson for the exchange as well as innovating new communication platforms to keep service channels, consumers, and stakeholders informed about critical developments in obtaining health coverage.
Education Session:
Growing Minds, Greener Futures: Integrating SEL and Environmental Literacy through Nature-Based Learning
Megan Humphreys, LCSW, PPSC is a skilled mental health professional with a decade of experience in the educational field. Her expertise in child and adolescent mental health, combined with her understanding of the educational landscape, empowers her to guide schools in creating nurturing and supportive learning environments. Megan’s passion for the intersection of mental health and nature has led her to specialize in implementing effective nature-based interventions, providing students with opportunities to connect with the natural world and improve their overall well-being.
Education Session:
The Inflation Reduction Act and Schools: New Unlimited, Uncapped Reimbursements for Clean Energy Technologies
Matthew Juchniewicz is an accomplished Facilities and Operations Leader with a visionary approach to strategic facility management, capital project leadership, and sustainability initiatives. He started his career at a very young age, working with his father at their family-owned janitorial services company. With over a decade of experience in facilities oversight, and 15 years of experience in the education sector. Matt has become a driving force in facility management with an approach that prioritizes operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
As the Director of Support Operations Services for the Yolo County Office of Education (YCOE), Matt spearheaded the Yolo County Schools Resiliency and Sustainability Project, which will make history as the first independent microgrid for a county office of education in the United States. Despite limited resources, Matt’s leadership positioned YCOE as a national leader in energy resilience, cost efficiency, and climate action. This groundbreaking project serves as a model for other organizations looking to enhance their sustainability practices while improving operational outcomes. His tenacity also helped secure state funding through the School Facility Program for YCOE in nearly 4 decades.
Education Session:
School Facility Program and Energy Efficiency Funding – Proposition 2
Rebecca Kirk was appointed Executive Officer for the Office of Public School Construction by Governor Newsom in January 2024. She has nearly 17 years of experience in California state government, including previous positions as the Deputy Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at the California Gambling Control Commission, Assistant Program Budget Manager for Higher Education and School Facilities at the California Department of Finance, Communications and Policy Manager at the Division of the State Architect, Sustainability Manager for the Department of General Services, and several previous roles at the Office of Public School Construction. She earned a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and completed the Leadership for the Government Executive Program through the California State University, Sacramento.
Education Session:
School Facility Program and Energy Efficiency Funding – Proposition 2
Brian LaPask has worked for the Office of Public School Construction (OPSC) for all 22+ years of his State service. Brian previously served multiple roles at OPSC as both Operations Manager and Policy Manager in Program Services. His prior OPSC service includes being both a Project Management Supervisor and Project Manager. Brian has lengthy experience with all programs offered at OPSC, as well as helping to manage the legislative and policy functions within the office.
During his tenure, Brian has focused on developing efficient and fluid day-to-day operational procedures, staff development, building internal and external relationships, providing outstanding customer service, and building a solid reputation with stakeholders. Brian is also integral to developing both action and statewide policy items heard at the State Allocation Board (SAB), as well as briefing members on the contents of the entire agenda prior to each SAB meeting.
Prior to State service, Brian worked for Bel Air Market for eleven years during high school and college. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Sacramento.
Education Session:
Sustainability in Action: Building a Culture of Climate Resilience in Schools
Dr. Chad Mabery is an accomplished educational leader with over two decades of experience in K-12 education. Currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services for Laguna Beach Unified School District, Dr. Mabery oversees a wide array of programs, including instructional development, curriculum design, assessments, and career education pathways. He holds a Doctorate in Education Leadership from UCLA and continues to serve as a guest lecturer, mentor, and panelist, sharing his insights into the evolving landscape of education. In addition, Dr. Mabery has presented at numerous national and state conferences, contributing thought leadership on topics such as future-focused education, collective system efficacy, and learner-centered education.
At LBUSD, Dr. Mabery has been a key leader in driving sustainability initiatives, focusing on reducing environmental impact, enhancing health and wellness, and advancing environmental education. The district’s 10-year facilities master plan aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 through energy efficiency improvements, solar power expansion, electric vehicle charging, and reducing natural gas usage. The district’s plan also prioritizes embedding environmental literacy across all grade levels, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship aligned with California’s Environmental Principles and Concepts.
Education Session:
Creating a Schoolyard Forest Pilot
Lauren McKenna, MLA (she/her), is a Senior Program Manager at Green Schoolyards America. After studying natural science and studio arts at Loyola Marymount University (2011) and two years as an AmeriCorps volunteer, she worked in various Pacific Northwest locales, including GIS mapping with the City of Tacoma, environmental education in Portland, Seattle and the Cascade Mountain foothills, and community engagement at a botanical conservatory. She graduated from the Master of Landscape Architecture program at Cal Poly Pomona in 2020, through which she learned about the connections between schoolyard design and environmental justice, and how these spaces are rich opportunities for connection to nature and community. She hopes to share the spiritual, mental, and physical health benefits of access to nature, and be an advocate for green space equity in underserved communities.
She can be found spending time with her dog, or sketching chaparral plants in the San Gabriel Mountain foothills.
Education Session:
Environmental Literacy & Indoor Air Quality: A Community Schools Based Response
Jonathan Mercado, Manager of Environmental Programs, oversees environmental programs, education and community engagement initiatives related to environmental and clean technology for Breathe SoCal. He is currently the project lead for multiple government grants including; the California Air Resource Board and the California Energy Commission as well as partnerships that brings together community-based organizations, technology companies, and university researchers to implement air quality improving programs and community advocacy and environmental awareness. He is the lead on several other of Breathe SoCal’s community engagement projects, including NextEra Energy electric school bus-to-grid project, and guiding stakeholder education and engagement for the new EV charging hub supporting rideshare vehicles at Los Angeles International Airport.
Education Session:
Growing Minds, Greener Futures: Integrating SEL and Environmental Literacy through Nature-Based Learning
Amelia Miscione is a Student Support Specialist with Laguna Beach Unified School District who provides support to students and families with mental health and wellness.
Education Session:
CLASS Study Hall – Leveraging Federal Programs to Further Sustainability
Shannon Oliver is a key member of NBI’s Leadership and Market Development Program, working with a range of organizations working to decarbonize the built environment. He focuses on supporting school districts across the U.S. to set, plan for action, and achieve climate and carbon reduction goals.
He is a sustainability expert with 20 years of experience and documented success in program development and management covering operational, social, and financial sustainability in large, complex organizations. Shannon has built a strong focus on navigating ambiguous, emerging, and diverse issues touching climate, energy, water, waste, transportation, engagement, and behavior change.
Education Session:
Sustainable Solutions: Designing a Net-Zero Energy Campus
Bahar Pahlevani is a Senior Project Coordinator with The Energy Coalition (TEC) and supports Education and Workforce Development through community outreach, educator engagement, curriculum development, and supervision of California Climate Action Corps Fellows. Bahar worked in veterinary medicine and wildlife research before receiving her Master of Science in Conservation Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. In her free time, Bahar enjoys working on art projects, rock climbing, and road trips to new places.
Education Sessions:
Living Labs of Tomorrow: Pioneering Net Zero in Education
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS): Meeting the Challenge of Infrastructure Development
Yash Patel serves as the Associate Director of Facilities, Planning, Sustainability & Construction at SBCCD. He holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering with an emphasis on energy systems. Yash has steered the district towards the development of sustainability plan and zero-net-energy master plan, while driving innovation in SBCCD’s bond projects. His unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovative practices has not only earned the district widespread recognition but has also significantly transformed its environmental impact.
Education Session:
Preparing Our Youth for Careers Focused on
Climate Change Mitigation
JP Patton leads the California Conservation Corps in our commitment to expand our reach to young adults and to protect California’s natural resources through environmentally focused work that makes California an even better place for all.
On November 1, 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed JP to serve as the CCC Director. JP’s career with the CCC started in 2021 as a Deputy Director over Region 1. As Deputy Director, he supported multiple Northern California CCC centers all actively engaged in mission critical work of Corpsmember development, natural resource conservation, climate resilience, and emergency response.
JP graduated from New York University and served as a senior manager for many years in the world of outdoor recreation, outdoor education, people development and natural resource conservation.
As the Director of CCC, JP is passionate about increasing pathways to careers for the Corpsmember community; championing diversity, equity, and inclusion; and expanding the corps movement across the globe.
Education Session:
Soaking it All In: Creating and Sustaining Stormwater Schools through Nature-based Solutions
Mikaela Randolph is the Associate Director of Regional Programs at Green Schoolyards America. In this role, Mikaela champions school greening in the Southern California region, with an emphasis on schoolyard forests in an effort to combat extreme heat on school grounds, where children have access during the day. In addition to her knowledge on greening, Mikaela brings knowledge of pairing stormwater management on schoolyards to support increased school greening across the Southern California region.
Mikaela is born and raised in Los Angeles, CA and holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Urban Studies and Communication Studies from Loyola Marymount University and a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Southern California. Mikaela is a mother to a teenage girl, a champion of play and nature access for all.
Education Session:
The Inflation Reduction Act and Schools: New unlimited, uncapped reimbursements for clean energy technologies
James Richmond, CEM, brings 38 years experience in renewable and energy-efficiency project development and funding for public schools and non-profits, having developed $60M in grant funding in California alone. With a long history as an Energy Manager, James has a unique perspective on getting your energy savings projects started, funded, and completed. His firm, First Note Finance inc, is a Green Energy Champion, and a regular contributor to the Green Technology educational programs.
Education Session:
School Greening through the Safe Clean Water Program
Matt Romero is a landscape designer inspired by creating transformative public places for community benefit. Matt embraces the potential for landscape architecture to offer environmental justice solutions while working with the community’s needs. He is interested in providing sustainable, impactful environments through socially and ecologically sensitive, community-driven design. Matt possesses attention to creative detail and a collaborative ethos that he brings to a variety of projects at Studio-MLA – from master planning and parks to K-12 and high education campuses.
Education Session:
Building Excellence: The Blueprint for High-Performance Environments & the Financial Advantage
Mary Ruppenthal has over 29 years of professional architectural experience and expertise specializing in educational projects throughout California. She is committed to collaborating with Districts, stakeholders, professional industry partners, and communities in shaping environments that elevate and enhance user engagement, performance, equity, health, and wellness and maximize educational and community outcomes.
She has been a Board Member of the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) since 2019 and is serving as the current NorCal/Nevada Chapter President; and earned her M. Arch from UC-Berkeley and B.SC. in Architecture from UW-Milwaukee.
Education Session:
Creating a Schoolyard Forest Pilot
Jessie Salazar is the founder and President of SLA, a Design-Build Social Enterprise that focuses on school greening, urban forestry, and workforce development. He holds a bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and an associate of arts in Behavioral Science from Santa Monica College. With a passion for social impact, Jessie founded SLA in 2014, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers individuals with barriers to employment through a pre-apprenticeship program, preparing participants for union apprenticeships. Under Jessie’s leadership, SLA has completed over 30 school greening projects across disadvantaged communities in Southeast Los Angeles, working with cities like Lynwood, Compton, Bell Gardens, and South Gate. He is a licensed landscape and tree contractor. Jessie’s dedication to community enrichment extends beyond urban landscapes, as he continues to advocate for environmental education and sustainability. His mission is to foster economic opportunities and green spaces in underserved areas through a holistic, people-centered approach.
Education Session:
Reusables in the Cafeteria: A School District’s Journey to Zero Waste
As a Green and Clean Purchasing Coordinator with CEH, Ben Schleifer has hands-on experience working with the entire school community (students, teachers, custodians, administrators, active parents) to convert school cafeterias from single-use plastic and toxic laden compostables to safer reusables. He plans and conducts waste audit and foodware assessments with students, analyzes the cost benefits for the transitions and develops key resources for school and other organization to make the switch and make sure it is long lasting. He uses his graduate degree in Neuroscience to understand how toxic chemicals can affect the brain of youth, but also how to influence the people he works with to change their behavior to a safer and more sustainable lifestyle.
Education Session:
Engage Students to Take Action to Conserve Resources, Protect the Environment, and
Prepare for Climate Change
Gerald Schwartz has been coordinating the Sustainability Department Solutions to Waste Schools Program for seventeen years. During the 2023 -2024 school year, this program reached out to approximately 6,000 students and teachers via classroom lessons, field trips, assembly presentations, youth leader and teacher training workshops. Gerald has six years of experience working in formal education as a Middle School and High School Science Teacher; and three years of volunteer service in the US Peace Corps working in Nicaragua as an Environmental Educator and Promoter. Gerald earned a B.S. degree in Marine Biology and Zoology, a Masters in Science Education at San Jose State University, and holds a California Single Subject Teaching Credential in Science. He is also currently working as a part-time lecturer at San Jose State University where he teaches Geology 103, Earth Systems and the Environment, course.
Education Sessions:
Tools and Resources for TK-12 School Leaders to Become Climate Ready
Utilizing Data to Catalyze Environmental Action in California’s Schools
The Inflation Reduction Act and Schools: New unlimited, uncapped reimbursements for clean energy technologies
Stephanie Seidmon (she/her) is the Program Director at UndauntedK12, where she plays a crucial role in advancing state and national strategies for promoting healthy, decarbonized, and climate-resilient schools. She leads initiatives in California, supporting the Climate Ready Schools Coalition’s advocacy, overseeing strategic projects, and expanding networks and partnerships. Stephanie brings a decade of experience in public education and climate justice advocacy, where she has served as a celebrated teacher and instructional leader in Louisiana, Mexico, and California.
Education Session:
Climate Action Planning – Scary Beast or Launchpad for Positive Transformation?
Mr. Eric Shuler offers 30 years of experience in municipal administration and higher education leadership and is a Senior Project Manager for Brailsford & Dunlavey serving the Western Pacific region overseeing large implementation bond programs. In his role he acts an owners representative, program manager, and provides energy management and climate action planning advisory services. Mr. Shuler’s extensive operational experience brings a keen sensitivity and favorable outcomes balancing total cost of ownership, life-cycle cost with first cost considerations. Furthermore, he brings plant and utility management background with extensive knowledge in energy and sustainability management considerations with a focus balancing responsible environmental stewardship with fiscal responsibility.
Prior to joining B&D Mr. Shuler’s served the City of Baltimore as Deputy Director of the Department of General Services, Frederick Community College (FCC) as Chief of Operations, Shepherd University as Assistant Vice President Facilities & Operations, and the University California Riverside, serving in the capacity as Assistant Director of Operations and Maintenance. He holds certifications in Facilities Management, IFMA CFM and USGBC LEED AP and served FCC and Shepherd University as Chair of the Capital Planning and Emergency Management Committees, the UC Riverside Campus as Chair for the UCR Energy and Sustainability Committee.
Education Session:
Creating Sustainability: From Initial Design, to Implementation, to Next Steps
Dr. Amanda Sobremesana is an accomplished educational professional with an extensive background in K-12 education, Higher Education, and Adult Learning. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Sobremesana has held various pivotal roles including teacher, curriculum specialist, K-12 district office math administrator, and preschool-8th grade principal. She currently serves as an elementary principal in Fullerton and supervisor for student teachers at Western Governors University.
During her tenure as a principal for an urban district in LA County, Dr. Sobremesana showcased her innovative leadership by spearheading transformative initiatives. She established a pioneering LEGO Robotics Lab for students in
grades K-2, successfully implemented Project Lead the Way for students in grades 3-5, and designed an exceptional Middle School ESports and Computer Science Pathway.
Recognized for her exceptional work in social-emotional support for students, Dr. Sobremesana and her dedicated staff were honored with the prestigious 2022 California Pivotal Practice award. Furthermore, she was nominated for Administrator of the Year by the Black Student Achievement Department in her previous district, reflecting her unwavering commitment to equity and social justice for all student subgroups.
Education Session:
Living Labs of Tomorrow: Pioneering Net Zero in Education
Simon Solis is a practicing architect with 23 years of design experience focused in California practice include a diverse collection of projects in Higher Education, K12, and the Community & Culture sectors. His work ranges from libraries, classroom buildings, technical education, athletics stadiums, wellness centers, student services and community aquatics, including master plans, and facility analyses — he believes deeply in the positive impact design can have on health and wellness and educational success of students and communities his projects serve. Simon believes in a collaborative design process focused on understanding and achieving the unique needs and specific goals and vision of every client, stakeholder, and community his projects serve.
Education Session:
Utilizing Data to Catalyze Environmental Action in California’s Schools
Sarah Whiting has harbored a deep love for learning and a passion for the environment since childhood. Her journey into education began after college when she provided early intervention tutoring for autistic children. Having personally experienced unconventional learning, Sarah has dedicated her career to establishing supportive and nurturing environments for students. Over eleven years, she taught elementary and middle school science, served as a district-level STEM TOSA for three years, and held the role of a county-level K12 Strong Workforce Pathway and STEM coordinator before joining the team at Ten Strands. As an advocate for developing systems thinking and creativity, she is driven to create an educational system where students are empowered to become solutionaries capable of making a positive impact on the world.
Education Session:
Reusables in the Cafeteria: A School District’s Journey to Zero Waste
Stephanie Willits is the Recycling Coordinator for the Fremont Unified School District of California. She has been with the district for nine years managing their solid waste and sustainability programs. Her unique role is in direct partnership with the City of Fremont and allows for collaboration on various sustainability programs across the district departments that benefit the city’s Climate Action Plan goals. She is also a participant on the district’s Wellness Committee, CLEEN (Climate Literacy and Environmental Education Network) and the Garden Network. Previously, she was the Recycling Coordinator for Republic Services of Alameda County for eight years managing the commercial organics, multi-family and FUSD programs. She is a UC Santa Cruz alumna with a bachelor’s in environmental studies. Her love for the environment and all things sustainable stems from her childhood memories collecting bottles and cans with her grandparents to recycle at the Tri-Ced Community Recycling Center in Union City, California.
Education Session:
Sustainability in the Curriculum and Student Engagement
Eric Wilson works as a project manager at TreePeople in the Green Infrastructure department. In this role he oversees green schoolyard projects at various locations across the educational spectrum, from early childhood to high school. As part of this work, he helped shape the school greening curriculum.
Eric previously served as Director of Sustainability at a charter management organization in the Los Angeles metro and taught at a one-of-a-kind college preparatory school in a wilderness setting that promotes a deep connection to nature. One of Eric’s educational passions is getting students out of the classroom and into the world around them.
Eric holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology and Human Biology from Emory University in Atlanta, an M.A. in teaching from New York University, and a PhD in Educational Studies and Research from the University of Colorado Denver’s School of Education and Human Development. His dissertation — Facilities as Teaching Tools: A Transformative Participatory Professional Development Experience — focused on using the local and built environment to serve as a living textbook. This research guides his current work, specifically as it pertains to green schoolyards and converting hardscape into outdoor learning spaces.
Education Session:
Interactive Workshop: Catalyzing Systemic School Facilities Upgrades through Multi-Agency Partnerships
Susan Wright is a Program Manager at the San Mateo County Sustainability Department where she leads climate protection initiatives including energy efficiency and decarbonization, policy development, electric vehicle adoption, and climate action planning. She also collaborates with the San Mateo County Office of Education to help school districts take advantage of incentive programs and technical assistance to save energy and transition their facilities to clean energy. Susan graduated from Principia College with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and holds a Master of Public Administration from Presidio Graduate School.
Education Sessions:
Catalyzing Environmental Action Through School Board Policy
Tools and Resources for TK-12 School Leaders to Become Climate Ready
Utilizing Data to Catalyze Environmental Action in California’s Schools
Andra Yeghoian is the Chief Innovation Officer for Ten Strands, a San Francisco Based nonprofit whose mission is to build and strengthen the partnerships and strategies that brings environmental literacy to all California’s students. Andra has over 20 years of experience in education across public and private school systems, nationally and internationally, and has served in a variety of roles, including: County-Level Environmental Literacy and Sustainability Coordinator, Site-Level Director of Sustainability, Secondary Humanities Teacher, Project Manager, Professional Development Facilitator, Adjunct Faculty, and Organizational Consultant. She holds a B.A. in International Relations and a Teaching Credential from UC Davis, and an MBA in Sustainable Systems from Presidio Graduate School, and an Administrative Services Credential.
Most recently, Andra’s work has focused on implementing visionary leadership for a whole systems approach to integrating environmental and climate action across all aspects of K-12 schools: campus and operations, curriculum and instruction, community engagement, and organizational culture. Additionally, under her leadership she has supported school sites, districts, and county offices in achieving honors such as the U.S. Department of Education and California Green Ribbon Award, Bay Area Green Business Certification, and LEED Platinum Certification for New Buildings.
Education Session:
Decarbonizing the School Kitchen
Richard Young is the Director of Outreach at the Frontier Energy Food Service Technology Center (FSTC), an unbiased, commercial foodservice, research-and-training facility.
Trained as an electrical engineer, Richard started his career in alternative energy, changing from energy-generation to energy-efficiency when he joined the FSTC research team over 35 years ago. He is a contributor to the USGBC’s LEED rating system and the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program. Richard has lectured at UC Berkeley and UC Davis and taught a food service sustainability class at Diablo Valley College. Richard is a former member of the National Restaurant Association’s Conserve Advisory Council and is a past Fellow of the Hobart Center for Foodservice Sustainability. Richard is currently an advisor to the Mission College culinary education program and the Worldchefs Sustainability Education for Culinary Professionals program.
Richard focuses his efforts on translating Frontier Energy’s 36 years of food service research into practical information. He has created and delivered over 1500 presentations and classes during the last 30 years and authored numerous research reports and articles in magazines, newsletters, and on the web. He is also the creator and author of the online Foodservice Energy Efficiency Expert (Fe3) training and certification program.
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