ENVIRON 201: Ecological Issues for Professor John Benedict. Communicated multifaceted ecological issues effectively, facilitated real-world learning activities, and engaged 150 total students in discussions related to sustainability and environmental challenges. Coordinated the creation of coursework, managed deadlines, collaborated with other instructors, and adjusted teaching strategies to meet the needs of a diverse student population.

Master of Science in Environment and Sustainability, specializing in Sustainability and Development

For my Masters Capstone Project, I worked on a team of UM graduate students to investigate the effectiveness of multi-stakeholder collaboration approach promoted by the UNDP FACS to support the transition to more sustainable food and agricultural commodity systems. We also contributed to implementing and refining the Signals of Change framework for documenting food and agricultural systems transformation through multi-stakeholder dialogue and collaboration.

Performed in-depth technical reviews of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance documents for analysis and benchmarking (of real estate/infrastructure entities). Verified policies, reports, and data for multiple ESG categories compared to international sustainability standards. Conducted calls with clients to provide feedback on their ESG data and reporting. Gained familiarity with several international sustainability rating systems/assessments for built environment (incl. LEED, WELL, BREEAM, GRESB, etc.).

Conducted research on socioeconomic resiliency strategies as they pertain to dryland agricultural communities in rural West Africa to develop a community resiliency toolkit. Supported and tested the development of the participatory climate/FCV resilience toolkit in pilot countries.

Delegated vendors and consumers through adaptive servant-leadership to hold two markets per week, year-round. Collaborated with Michigan Fair Food Network to analyze and develop informational marketing campaigns regarding food assistance programs. Facilitated food sovereignty development to increase Michigan Bridge and Double Up Food Bucks usage among local food-insecure populations.

Cultivated culturally relevant edible crops, herbs, and flowers to feed clients experiencing food insecurity. Empowered clients through horticulture therapy programs to foster healing and growth. Communicated with local community leaders to fundraise. Educated clients and volunteers to grow their own food and inform on the local food system, while simultaneously leading volunteer groups of twenty people.

Improved the regenerative farming system through extensive training in sustainable agricultural practices to increase net yield and soil fertility. Maintain relations with donors in order to ensure the continuity of our mission to donate our entire harvest to local food banks and shelters. Exerted physical labor and operated heavy machinery to progress the development of the farm and crop production.