Adela Contreras | [email protected] 

Hi! My name is Adela Contreras and I live and work in the Pacific Northwest. On my weekends, I love to paddle board, adventure with my dog, and go to farmer's markets. On weekdays, I serve the public as a natural resource planner and support local agriculture.

Alexander Liesegang | [email protected] 

Alex graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning in 2025. During his undergraduate studies, Alex did research on how our scientific understanding of climate change has evolved since 1970, as well as ways to quantify the flood protection value of wetlands. He also worked with Tree Davis through the College Corps to plant many trees around Davis. He is now a 2nd-year in the Environmental Policy and Management masters program at UC Davis, researching electric vehicle battery recycling. He also works for the California Public Utilities Commission. He focuses on turning research into actionable outcomes that help the most people possible!

Alexis Tarantino | [email protected] 

Hi, I'm an Air Pollution Specialist working on climate change policy at the California Air Resources Board. If any of you are feeling nervous about graduating, just know that I was extremely nervous too in your spot, so you're not alone! I love helping people job search and I'm here to support your overall transition from school to the workforce (or grad school).

Amanda Wong | [email protected] 

Aloha! My name is Amanda, and I'm from Hawai'i, where I graduated with my undergraduate degree in Environmental Science, with a focus on plant science and conservation, from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. I'm currently a PhD student in Ecology, and my research focuses on plastic pollution in California agriculture, microplastic impacts on soil microbial communities, and the effects of realistic microplastics on plant growth.

Amy Martin | [email protected] 

Amy Martin is the Principal of Transit Fare Programs at the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), the government agency responsible for regional transportation planning and financing in the San Francisco Bay Area. She joined MTC in 2026 after ten years working as a transit fare technology and policy consultant helping transit agencies across the U.S. answer questions about how riders pay and how much it costs to take transit. She is a 2013 UC Davis EPAP graduate and received her Master's in City Planning from UC Berkeley in 2017.

Andrew Tom | [email protected]

Andrew Tom graduated from UC Davis in 2016 (ESM - Climate Change & Air Quality Track) and has since followed a nontraditional path: augmenting his environmental foundation with data science and software engineering. His career has spanned climate-risk analytics, geospatial data, and technology startups, translating complex environmental challenges into practical tools and insights. He now works in San Francisco advising several mission-driven startups measuring the physical impacts of climate change on real estate to help global investors make more informed investment decisions.

Angee Doerr | [email protected]

Dr. Angee Doerr is an Associate Professor of Practice with Oregon Sea Grant and Oregon State University. She works on marine social-ecological systems, focusing primarily on commercial fisheries and aquaculture. Angee is also a Captain in the US Navy Reserve, with more than 24 years of combined active and reserve service.

Angela Calderaro | [email protected] 

Ms. Angela Calderaro is currently the Environmental Program Manager for the Delta Ecosystem Enhancement unit in Division of Multibenefit Initiatives at Department of Water Resources. She has 20 years of experience in biological fieldwork, environmental permitting and regulations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-calderaro-seniorscientistregulatory/

Annie Chen | [email protected] 

Annie is the owner of a small business, Sciencely Handmade, a 5-year, global sustainability award winning brand to "smuggle" science into high-touch events and lifestyle items. Annie has 13 years of mentoring experience and has been around the world in North America, Europe, and Asia, working in the field of environmental science communication.

Atley Keller | [email protected] 

I work as a Public Participation Consultant for Stantec Water Resources, Planning, and Management Group. I work on integrated water management across the state; however, my current focus is on California groundwater and assisting Groundwater Sustainability Agencies with governance, engagement, and facilitation support.

Brandi Coley-Lott |  [email protected] 

I was born and raised in San Diego, and immediately returned to my hometown once finishing undergrad. I've worked for San Diego County's Dept of Environmental Health & Quality for almost 10 years. I am currently pursuing the REHS professional certification with CDPH. Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and community events. I am the oldest of four siblings and the first in my immediate/most of my extended family to follow a traditional college to career path.

Brandi Goss | [email protected] 

I am a transplant from Florida who fell in love with California's river working on salmon monitoring with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in the shadow of Mount Shasta. I also have public policy experience working for the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, the regulatory arm of CAL FIRE. My graduate work centered on the effects of beaver dam analogues to aquatic food webs.

Brett Hanshew | [email protected]

Brett Hanshew is a seasoned consulting biologist with over 16 years of professional experience and an academic background in freshwater ecology, herpetology and invasive species. His current role as Principal Technical Consultant at Sequoia Ecological Consulting includes business development, project delivery, and serving as technical advisor for the Sequoia team for complex regulatory and biological issues.

Camille Kustin | [email protected] 

I went to UC Davis and loved my undergraduate time there. Since UCD, I went to grad school, have had a variety of jobs (it took some time to figure out the right fit), and many life experiences. I hope to work with a mentee on approaching their future holistically and to provide guidance on their path forward in life.

Clarissa Simnick | [email protected] 

Clarissa Simnick is a graduate student in the Environmental Policy & Management program at UC Davis. She holds a B.S. in Horticulture and a Graduate Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction from Purdue University. Prior to graduate school, she has worked in agricultural and environmental education.

Dan Ritzman | [email protected] 

I direct the Sierra Club's Conservation Campaign, our effort to protect lands, water and wildlife across the country. I have a strong background in campaign development and grassroots organizing. My passion is being an advocate for the conservation of treasured landscapes and wildlife. In doing so, I believe in actively engaging with communities to build campaign success. My deep experience in national and local constituency building, public outreach, partnership building, advocacy, and government relations have enabled me to develop and implement national conservation strategies.

Daniela Turner | [email protected] 

Daniela Turner (she/her) is an Associate Transportation Planner at Caltrans District 11 in San Diego, where she performs long-range planning for the State Highway System. She began her career as a planner in the Caltrans Division of Rail and Mass Transportation in Sacramento. Daniela graduated from UC Davis with an Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning degree in 2019.

Eliana Bono | [email protected] 

Eliana enjoyed her studies at Davis in EPAP with a minor in communication. She spent her time at the arboretum, working at two different California public agencies as part of UC Center Sacramento, and interning at a mitigation banking company. Post graduation, she got a job in philanthropy working at Silicon Valley Community Foundation in operations. She is currently based in the Bay Area, working full time and applying for a Master of Nonprofit Management, as she discovered her passion is staying in the social impact space.

Emily Kehmeier | [email protected] 

Emily is a Senior Manager at Energy Solutions, focusing on the clean energy transition -- especially electric demand flexibility, building electrification, and the intersection between the two. As a program manager for load flexibility programs, her role involves coordination with diverse stakeholders such as contractors, manufacturers, and policy makers to advance market transformation and demand flexibility outcomes.

Faith Sunga | [email protected] 

Faith Sunga is a 2nd year Master's Student at UC Davis studying Environmental Policy & Management, specializing in Environmental Justice and Water Resource Management. She also holds an internship as a Student Assistant at the State Water Resources Control Board where she assists with projects ranging from mapping water pollution sources to supporting the advancement of the State Water Board's, Racial Equity Action Plan.

Geneva Iversen-Krampitz | [email protected] 

I work at the State of California Wildlife Conservation Board as an Environmental Scientist focusing on riparian restoration and increasing the quality and availability of habitat for several endangered salmonids. I also serve as a tribal liaison for our organization and am a contact point for tribes seeking funding for restoration projects throughout the state. In my off time I dance Hula and ‘Ori Tahiti with a local Hālau.

Gracyna Mohabir | [email protected] 

My career experience rests in implementation and development of California's landmark climate, air pollution, and clean transportation policies. I advocate at state agencies, the legislature, and local government settings. My guiding focus is climate justice!

Guo Cheng | [email protected] 

I'm Guo Cheng. I was an international UCD student with ESM major, graduating in 2019. I pursued Master of Forest Conservation at the University of Toronto, graduated in 2022. I've worked at a private tree care company for almost 3 years, and worked at public sector for 2 years.

Haley Schrader | [email protected] 

Hello, I'm Haley! I am currently a plant biology PhD candidate in the School of Biological Sciences at Washington State University. My research focuses on photosynthetic enzymes, thermotolerance, and carbon concentrating mechanisms. I use techniques involving biochemistry, molecular biology, and physiology to understand photosynthesis in plants adapted to hotter and drier environmental conditions. I became interested in plant biology while I was an undergraduate at UC Davis majoring in Environmental Science and Management. I conducted my honors thesis in the Brady Lab studying tomato root growth and realized how much I loved lab work. After graduating, I worked in a commercial lab for a biotechnology company for several years before ultimately going back to graduate school. I'm happy to chat about graduate school and working in industry!

Holly Murphy | [email protected] 

My name is Holly Murphy and I'm a transportation planner with GHD. I graduated UC Davis in 2022 and I'm passionate about transportation equity and community building. In my free time, I am a part of my local Strong Towns Chapter and Neighborhood Association, and I enjoy biking around town, swimming in the river, and seeing live music.

Jeremy Ketchum | [email protected]

Jeremy Ketchum is California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division Chief of Environmental Analysis. Jeremy began working for Caltrans as an Environmental Planner in the Oakland District 4 office in 1999 before moving to work in the Marysville/Sacramento District 3 office in a similar capacity, where he was promoted to Senior in 2004. During his time in the Districts, Jeremy had the opportunity to work on many complex projects including Willits Bypass, Lake 29 Expressway and various carpool projects in the Sacramento area. He also served as a member of Team Tahoe. Beginning in 2012, he joined the office at Headquarters as an Environmental Coordinator as a liaison to the Oakland and Los Angeles offices. In 2017, he was promoted to Assistant Division Chief for the Division of Environmental Analysis and began serving as the alternate for the California Secretary of Transportation and as an ex officio Coastal Commissioner. In 2022, Jeremy advanced to Division Chief of Environmental Analysis.

John Cadiz | [email protected] 

John Cadiz is a PhD candidate in Transportation Technology and Policy at UC Davis and an Energy Systems Analyst Graduate Intern at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. His work focuses on clean transportation, energy systems, alternative fuels, and climate policy, with experience spanning national laboratories, government, academia, and the private sector. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from UC Berkeley and a Master of Urban Planning from USC.

Judi Eppele | [email protected] 

Judi Eppele is a graduate student in the Community Development Graduate Group (CDGG) at UC Davis, and will be starting an MSc in Sustainable Development through University College Dublin this Fall, offered remotely. Her research focuses on environmental education and global sustainability, and is built upon the foundations of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and active learning strategies.

Julia Au | [email protected] 

Julia is the Senior Outreach, Education and Compliance Manager at RethinkWaste and is responsible for a variety of waste reduction and outreach programs for residents and businesses, along with policy and legislation. Julia has extensive prior experience in environmental policy and outreach/education programs mostly in the public sector, having previously worked at County of San Mateo and San Francisco Environmental Department. Julia also worked at Californians Against Waste and California Product Stewardship Council.

Karla Enriquez | [email protected] 

Karla Enriquez is a strategic business leader with a proven track record of delivering complex, enterprise-level programs. As Director of Business Strategy at AT&T, she leads cross-functional teams to execute technology and operational transformation initiatives.

Kendal Hicks | [email protected] 

My name is Kendal Hicks and I work as a Senior Environmental Planner at ICF in Sacramento, CA. I graduated from UC Davis in Spring 2018 and helped create the Waterway Stewardship Internship for the Arboretum Learning by Leading program. In my free time, I love to work out, dance, try new restaurants in Sac, and visit my hometown in Plumas County.

Kendra Breiland | [email protected] 

I'm a Principal at Fehr & Peers, a transportation planning and engineering firm. I became interested in transportation through my EPAP studies where I learned how important our transportation choices and underlying policies are to human impacts on the environment. I lead our PNW office (Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland) and spend most of my time leading projects for cities and counties that help people reduce their reliance on private vehicles. Prior to Fehr & Peers, I received my MA in Urban Planning from UCLA.

Kirsti Carr | [email protected] 

Kirsti Carr is a PhD student in the Ringelman Avian Ecology Lab at UC Davis. She previously worked as an avian ecologist for Point Blue Conservation Science, specializing in nonbreeding shorebird research and conservation, while spending summers conducting breeding surveys in the Alaskan Arctic. Her current research focuses on migratory shorebird movement ecology and habitat selection across the annual cycle.

Kristin Drumm | [email protected] 

Kristin Drumm is a Senior Project Planner at the Marin County Community Development Agency. She has led projects for the Marin Countywide (General)Plan, Local Coastal Program, multiple community and specific plans, ordinances, and minor to complex development applications. She is currently a member on the Transportation Authority of Marin Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee and is a former member of the Novato Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.

Lara Ibrahim | [email protected] 

I am passionate about environmental science and building strong, connected eco-communities where everyone can make a real impact. With a background in watershed science and law I have developed a career in natural resource management. Outside of work, you'll usually find me spending time outdoors, swimming, or unwinding with sewing and embroidery.

Leigh Hiura | [email protected] 

Leigh Hiura (she/her) is a masterful operations professional with over ten years of experience making nonprofits run smoothly. As Mosaic's Operations Manager, Leigh supports and streamlines Mosaic's IT systems and back-end processes to ensure our team can stay laser focused on strengthening environmental movement infrastructure.

Levi Gray | [email protected] 

I started as an undergrad with a strong interest in herpetology and research and got great opportunities and experience from professors at UCD. However, I was clueless about what career paths there were aside from research and it took me time to figure that out on my own. I still do some research internationally but my job is focused on conservation in southern California.

Luigi Zialcita | [email protected] 

Hello! I'm Luigi, I graduated from UC Davis in 2022 with a B.S. in Environmental Science & Management. I currently work at the Bureau of Land Management in Gunnison, Colorado, doing a healthy mix of ecological monitoring, GIS, botany, and rangeland health. Outside of work, I love running, hiking, skiing, or really anything that gets me out into our wonderful public lands!

Maaike Lagunas | [email protected] 

Maaike Lagunas works in environmental education and communications. She graduated from UC Davis with a B.S. in Environmental Science and Management and a minor in Spanish in 2020. She then moved to Michigan, where she got her M.S. in Environment and Sustainability Education, Communication and Behavior Change from the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability in 2023. For the past three years, she has worked in communications and public outreach for a small nonprofit, the Huron River Watershed Council. Maaike recently moved back to California where she aims to continue her work in inspiring environmental stewardship of our natural resources.

Madison Wong | [email protected] 

Madison is a third-year Master of Science/Juris Doctor student at UC Berkeley focused on environmental, clean energy, and climate change law. She is passionate about advancing practical, equitable solutions to environmental challenges and enjoys working at the intersection of science, policy, and law. Outside of school and work, she is usually rock climbing, reading, writing, or spending time with guide dog puppies in-training.

Manny Rin | [email protected] 

Manny began his career in college as a student leader with CALPIRG. Now he directs the New Voters Project, working with staff and students to make sure the young people are represented in our democracy. He also directs the Student PIRGs staff recruitment efforts, helping to identify, recruit, and empower up and coming leaders to organize with us full-time. Previously the executive director of Change Corps, Manny has extensive experience leading campaigns, including working with MoveOn.org and Everytown for Gun Safety. Manny lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he enjoys running, playing trivia with friends, and reading books with his toddler.

Margo Ghia | [email protected] 

Living in Vermont, I am a Senior Planner in a Regional Planning Commission. Working with very rural communities, I work with them on environmental issues, but also cross disciplines into transportation, emergency, energy, and land use planning.

Marisa Rodriguez | [email protected] 

Marisa is an environmental policy advocate with a professional background in urban planning, legislative advocacy, and community outreach. After graduating with her B.A. in Environmental Policy at UC San Diego, Marisa worked in the private sector as a community planner at Rincon Consultants, where she worked on projects with communities across the state related to CEQA, land use and zoning, housing, and transportation. She is now in her second year of her Master's at UC Davis in Environmental Policy and Management and working at the Planning and Conservation League, a non-profit in Sacramento, advocating for impactful land use, environmental justice, and climate legislation.

Matt Fairris | [email protected] 

I am a land use economics consultant for public sector jurisdictions throughout the country, with a focus on Northern CA and the Pacific Northwest. We provide technical analysis to inform public policy in the areas of land use, housing, economic development, and community development. I have been with the company for 11 years, including 8 years in our Davis office before relocating to Portland, OR.

Matthew Bronson | [email protected] 

I serve as City Manager in Grover Beach near San Luis Obispo and worked previously for the City of Charlotte, County of Marin, and City of San Mateo. My EPAP degree gave me awareness and knowledge in policy analysis with a focus on environmental issues that positioned me for graduate school and then a career in local government. 

Megan Nguyen | [email protected] 

Megan Nguyen (they/she) is a community builder, environmental professional, and creative communicator with more than 10 years of experience bringing people together through events, storytelling, education, and public engagement. As the Community Events Manager at Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST), Megan creates programs that connect thousands of people with nature while making the outdoors and environmental field more welcoming and accessible. They also co-founded the Northern California chapter of Conservationists of Color and organize with Environmental Professionals of Color Bay Area, creating spaces for connection, professional growth, and mutual support.

Megan Powers | [email protected] 

My name is Megan Powers and I have been a Grants Manager for the Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program (MLRP) at the CA Dept. of Conservation for the last 16 months. Since graduating from Davis in 2020 with a major in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning and a minor in Sociology, I have worked in various natural resource agencies within the public sector. My current position as a Grants Manager in DOC's Division of Land Resource Protection has allowed me the opportunity to support and improve a newer grant program dedicated to providing funding to grantees in overdrafted groundwater basins so that they can develop and implement multibenefit land repurposing projects to meet the regional groundwater sustainability goals.

Melissa Enoch | [email protected] 

Melissa Enoch is Assistant Commissioner for the Bureau of Environmental Planning and Analysis (BEPA) at NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) leading many of DEP's environmental and integrated water management planning efforts, including capital planning and operations and maintenance for the NYC Green Infrastructure Program. Melissa has over 15 years of experience in environmental planning, stormwater management, and land use review in state and local government and holds an M.S. in environmental science and an M.P.A. from the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University.

Michael Jimenez | [email protected] 

For the last 13 years, I have owned my own land use consulting business assisting clients with their residential and small commercial properties. The primary service I provide my clients is to obtain approvals from local and state agencies to develop their properties. Throughout my 40 year career, I have worked in both the public and private sectors as well as held numerous volunteer positions in both non profits and government commissions. All of this was made possible based on the comprehensive and real-world knowledge and skills I obtained in the EPAP program as well as my extra-curricular activities and programs at UC Davis.

Michael Smith | [email protected] 

Michael is a PhD student in the Energy Systems program at UC Davis. He currently studies demand response, load shifting, and energy efficiency in California specifically, though he is also interested in international energy issues as well. For his Masters and Bachelors degrees, he studied Agricultural Engineering at UC Davis and Clemson University.

Mina Bedogne | [email protected] 

I am an AmeriCorps alumna (CivicSpark and California Climate Action Corps) and seasonal California State Parks employee passionate about ecological restoration and beneficial fire. In my free time, I love to explore public lands and participate in local Prescribed Burn Association activities. Feel free to reach out about any of these topics!

Mina Swintek | [email protected] 

My name is Mina, I graduated from UCD in 2022 with my BS in ESM and focus in GIS. I am now in my 3rd year as a Data Scientist working with the USDA Sustainable Agricultural Water Systems Unit, where our work, in collaboration with UCD, primarily involves evapotranspiration research in wine grapes, almonds, and olives. My day-to-day tasks include coding, cloud-based database management, and real-time data visualization. I also lend a hand to the Field and Drone teams when the need arises. I'm excited to mentor for a second year and I'm looking forward to providing any guidance I can!

Morgan Shepherd | [email protected] 

Morgan Shepherd is a fourth year PhD student at Colorado School of Mines, focusing on quantifying demand flexibility potential of residential electricity customers. Prior to coming to Mines, Morgan graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Environmental Science and Management. She then worked at the California Energy Commission on a variety of projects like the Load Management Standards, CalSHAPE, and building performance standards.

Nathan Lee | [email protected] 

Nathan Lee (he/they) is a double Aggie pursuing his master's degree in Environmental Policy and Management. They work at the California Strategic Growth Council and are broadly interested in environmental justice as it relates to interconnected forms of social liberation. In his free time, they like to read, bird watch, and bake.

Nathaniel (Nate) Roth | [email protected] 

As the Chief Scientific and Data Advisor, I provide guidance to the California Department of Conservation's use of data, scientific computing, and geographic information. A primary goal is improving the use of data in informing decision-making within the department and in partnership with a wide variety of partners. My background is in Geography/GIS with substantial interests in land use policy, climate change, natural hazards, and transportation.

Nicholas Funk | [email protected] 

Experienced environmental consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the civil engineering industry. Skilled in renewable energy facility siting, water resource management, water risk assessment, water target setting, sustainability, environmental permitting, and project management. Strong community and social services professional with a Master of Science (M.S.) focused in Water Resources Science and Energy Analysis.

Corporate and business unit strategy; goal and target setting (SBTi, net zero, RE100); reporting and communications (CDP, GRI, SASB, UNGC, etc.); materiality assessment, stakeholder engagement; energy/GHG/water/waste management; renewable energy procurement.

Paola Vargas | [email protected] 

I am born and raised in Los Angeles, where I currently reside. I'm a Community Organizer for the Long Beach/South Bay region, which means I not only work personally with community members impacted by industrial pollution and other forms of systemic harm, but I also engage in policy development, advocacy, education building, state/national public engagement, community event planning, and more. I became increasingly passionate about environmental justice at UC Davis, having come from a frontline community myself, and have continued my advocacy in the grassroots organizing that I do.

Patrick Henderson | [email protected] 

Born on the East Coast and raised in White Pines, CA. Mr. Henderson is a California water and public policy veteran, managing Government Affairs and Rural Policy for the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit headquartered in West Sacramento. Prior to joining RCAC, Mr. Henderson spent nearly a decade with the California State Water Resources Control Board as the Surface Water Quality Portfolio analyst with the Office of Legislative Affairs and as the Nonpoint Source and DoD Site Cleanup program analyst for the Division of Water Quality. He began his state service with the Governor's Office of Planning and Research (now the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation) staffing Governor Brown's Drought Task Force and assisting with negotiation of the State Groundwater Management Act in 2014. Mr. Henderson earned a B.A Political Science from UC Davis in 2014, and worked as a student assistant for Davis' Department of Plant Biology. His previous work includes GPS surveying and trail construction for the US Bureau of Reclamation, serving as a wildland firefighter for the US Forest Service, and ballroom dance instruction.

Qirui Long | [email protected] 

Qirui Long is a PhD candidate in Aerospace Engineering at Cornell University. His research focuses on agrivoltaics, renewable energy systems, environmental modeling, and sustainable energy–agriculture integration. He previously earned an M.S. from Stanford University and a B.S. from UC Davis.

Rebecca Payne | [email protected] 

Rebecca Payne is an environmental biologist with experience in federal and state environmental permitting, mitigation planning and agreement development, conservation easement development and review, wetland and mitigation policy, wetland delineation, California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM), aquatic habitat assessment, environmental impact assessment, stormwater management, and public outreach. Rebecca has over 20 years of wetland delineation experience.

Robert Vergara | [email protected] 

Robert Zuniga | [email protected] 

Multimedia and communications specialist focusing on the relationship between grassroots and the public. Experience includes 4 years of involvement in video production and editing, social media content creation, analytics and evaluation, and project management, collaborating with wildlife and humanitarian agencies (including the National Park Service, Limitless Horizons Ixil, and the Peace Corps).

Ryan Swanson | [email protected] 

I'm an environmental scientist with an environmental consulting firm, Environmental Science Associates (ESA), based in Seattle, WA. I specialize in marine and nearshore infrastructure, guiding clients through the regulatory process, as well as performing environmental and biological analyses of a wide array of construction projects, including working with partners at the University of Washington to deploy scientific measurement devices in marine waters (e.g., hydrophone arrays, buoys, experimental devices).

Sachi Srivastava | [email protected] 

I am a Master's student at UC Davis in the Graduate Group in Ecology. Broadly, my background and experience is in vegetation (forest and agro-) ecology, environmental justice advocacy, field research, and prescribed fire! My research in the Safford Lab at UC Davis focuses on how climate change and long distance seed dispersal are interacting to reshape high elevation forest structure in California's Sierra Nevada. I’m happy to chat about careers in ecology, restoration, and land management!

Sam Shelton | [email protected] 

I've been a transportation planner working at local, countywide and regional governments for over 25 years. When I'm not helping folks, plan, fund and build things like highways, train stations and bike paths, I enjoy traveling with my family and playing PC games with my 9th grader.

Serina Moheed | [email protected] 

Serina Moheed is a PhD Candidate in the Evolutionary and Ecology Department at UC Davis studying marine infectious diseases in seagrass meadows. In her free time, she loves to bake and spend time with friends.

Shelbie Ishimaru | [email protected] 

Susana Calderon | [email protected] 

My name is Susana (she/they) and I have been in the utility forestry industry for 6 years. My work experience ranges from working with PG&E, US Forest Service, US Geological Survey, and the Department of Energy. I graduated from UC Davis in 2019 with a B.S. in ESM with a concentration in Air Quality and Change Change and graduated from Colorado State University in 2023 with a Masters in Natural Resource Stewardship with a concentration in Forest Sciences. My passion lies between the trees and an office desk, and I hope to help any mentee find their passion and navigate through this great big world.”

Tallulah Story | [email protected] 

My name is Tallulah (she/her) and I am a PhD student in the graduate group in ecology and a member of the Brown lab (based out of Bodega Marine Lab). I am a Eugene-Cota Robles and NSF-GRFP fellow! I am also a first-generation college graduate interested in mentoring students who want to pursue graduate school or careers in science communication. I am originally from Hawai'i and my research interests sit at the intersect of marine ecology and disease ecology, with a specific emphasis at understanding host-microbe-disease interactions in foundational marine species.

Victoria Fletcher | [email protected] 

Hi! My name is Victoria Fletcher, and I graduated in the fall of 2023 with a B.S. in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning, with a focus in City and Regional Planning.

While at UC Davis, I joined several clubs, became a committed member of the Woman's Club Ultimate Frisbee Team, Rogue, worked in two different labs, and participated in a study abroad program during my final summer as a student.

Since graduating, I've been working for the UC Davis Putah Creek Riparian Reserve as a Naturalized Lands Technician, stewarding a variety of landscapes from Putah Creek and its former channel to reserve lands, urban-rural transition areas, and highly disturbed sites with a focus on improving ecological function and ecosystem health, while working with students and community members to foster the next generation of land stewards.

Zach Wendling | [email protected] 

I worked in the private sector for five years as an environmental scientist restoring surface water ecosystems. After receiving a Ph.D. in environmental policy, I've lead public-facing research projects into translating environmental metrics into policy-relevant communication tools.

Jeff Lapp | [email protected] 

Currently the Senior Science Policy Advisor at the National Association of Wetlands Managers (NAWM). Prior to joining NAWM he spent over 32 years with the Environmental Protection Agency, primarily in the wetlands program. His technical skills include conducting wetlands identification training for both novice and experienced delineators from state and federal programs. An avid botanist and horticulturalist, he raises a multitude of plants including Sarracenia and Rhododendrons.

Erica Pencak | [email protected] 

Erica Pencak is a Senior Attorney in Defenders of Wildlife's Biodiversity Law Center, where she works to develop, implement and defend long-lasting solutions to stem the decline of biodiversity, strengthen the implementation of the Endangered Species Act, and expand protections for imperiled wildlife and their habitats on federal lands and in our oceans.
Erica joined Defenders with fourteen years of experience as a trial attorney in the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, where she served in both the Environmental Enforcement and Environmental Crimes sections. Her work included litigating civil penalties under the Clean Water Act for the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and combatting illegal logging through the Lacey Act’s criminal enforcement provisions. She began her legal career as an Honors Attorney Fellow in the Environmental Protection Agency’s regional office in San Francisco.

Prior to law school, she worked as a research associate at the Environmental Law Institute and interned at numerous environmental organizations, including the Center for International Environmental Law, the United Nations Environment Programme, Environmental Defense, the Sierra Club, and Defenders of Wildlife. Erica holds a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and a B.A. from the George Washington University. She completed a one-year study abroad program at the London School of Economics.

Adrianna Champagne | [email protected] 

Adrianna Champagne-Zamora is a planning professional with experience in transportation and housing, and a recent UC Davis graduate with a M.S. in Community Development. She has extensive experience in research, policy, and community engagement, with a focus on uplifting historically underserved communities. Her work has centered on active transportation planning and equity-centered engagement, most recently as an Active Modes Intern with the Sacramento Area Council of Governments and as a Mobility and Sustainability Fellow with the City of Sacramento.

Ariana Hernandez | [email protected] 

Ariana Hernandez holds a B.A. in Environmental Planning and Policy from UC Davis and an Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from UCLA. She has worked at UCLA on drinking water and wastewater equity initiatives, advancing inclusive planning for underserved communities. Ariana now serves on the City of Sacramento's Climate Action and Sustainability Team, where she supports efforts in urban forestry, EV charging infrastructure, and community-focused climate outreach.

Ben Gerhardstein | [email protected] 

Ben Gerhardstein is an Environmental Health Scientist with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At ATSDR he helps to protect communities in the Pacific Southwest from exposure to pollutants from hazardous waste sites. He has worked on a range of environmental public health issues at CDC, including healthy community design, bicycle and pedestrian safety, environmental justice, and chemical policy. Ben also co-founded and helps lead Walk Bike Berkeley, an all-volunteer safe streets advocacy organization in Berkeley, California. An adventurous soul, Ben is an avid rock climber, wilderness trekker, and urban cyclist.

Camille Randolph | [email protected] 

Camille Randolph is an Equity Analyst in the Caltrans Director's Office of Equity and Tribal Affairs, where they work on the implementation of transportation equity initiatives across the Department. Camille earned their Master's degree in Race, Ethnicity, and Conflict and brings a background in racial and environmental justice. Prior to joining Caltrans, Camille worked in the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, as a Program Analyst for the California Racial Equity Commission and as an Executive Fellow at the California Strategic Growth Council where they led efforts on Tribal inclusion in competitive grant programs, increasing capacity in state housing and transportation agencies, and supporting community partners in accessing millions in federal funding.

Carrie Ng | [email protected] 

Carrie Ng is an Attorney-Adviser at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and interprets and applies the Federal Power Act, Natural Gas Act, National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and other laws in orders and memoranda addressing energy project development applications. During law school, Carrie gained practical work experience in energy and environmental matters at the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office, Small Business Utility Advocates, Oregon Department of Justice, and Earthrise Law Center. In her free time, Carrie enjoys trying new restaurants, playing board games, and building community.

Catherine Foster | [email protected] 

Catherine has worked in the climate and resilience space for over ten years and has a particular passion for climate equity, intergovernmental collaboration, and strategic evaluation. She currently serves as a Senior Planner with the Governor's Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) supporting the Extreme Heat and Community Resilience Program. Prior to joining LCI, Catherine worked with the Strategic Growth Council as a Program Analyst for the Community Assistance for Climate Equity (CACE) team supporting the Regional Climate Collaboratives (RCC) program. She holds a Bachelor of Art in Political Science, with a minor in Global Peace & Security, from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Master of Public Administration, with a concentration in Environmental Policy, from the University of Washington.

Changtong Wu | [email protected] 

Changtong is an ESG Consultant at Deloitte China. He holds the Sustainable Investing Certificate issued by CFA Institute and the Sustainability Excellence Associate credential issued by ISSP.

Christina Saldana | [email protected] 

Christina Throne is a Quality Control Analyst in Direct Materials at Lonza, where she supports product integrity by ensuring materials meet strict quality standards. She graduated from UC Davis in 2022 with a degree in Environmental Science and Management. She currently lives in Rio Vista with her husband, along with their two dogs and four cats.

Clancy McConnell | [email protected] 

I'm a geographer, planner, and landscape ecologist. My current day job at Yolo County is running the Cache Creek Area Plan, an environmental management program that involves riparian ecosystem management, administrative oversight of off-channel aggregate mines and their subsequent reclamation to habitat, agricultural mitigation, and more. In my spare time, I'm an affiliate researcher at UC Davis, where I study a variety of environmental issues and build GIS tools for land managers. My past and current research informs river restoration, tree species ranges, forest management, zoning for conservation, climate change adaptation, and historical ecology. I also taught GIS and ecology at UC Davis for over seven years, have mentored over 20 undergraduate students, and spend my time off exploring and admiring California's natural landscapes. I enjoy working in a team and helping others by volunteering.

Dan Xie | [email protected] 

Dan (pronounced Dawn) is the National Political Director for the Student PIRGs, where she manages environmental campaign strategy, coordinates legislative priorities, and manages coalition relationships. Dan started as an organizer working in California for 5 years, and has worked on issues ranging from water quality and expanding marine protected areas, to climate solutions and expanding public transportation.

Elena Hernandez | [email protected] 

Elena Hernandez (she/her) is a senior project manager and researcher at the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation. Elena has worked at the Luskin Center since the fall of 2019. Her research includes the evaluation of the Strategic Growth Council’s Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) program, the nation’s most comprehensive investments in local climate action. As a staff researcher, Elena collects qualitative and quantitative data for outputs and outcomes of TCC projects.

Elena graduated with master’s degrees from UCLA in urban and regional planning and public health, with a concentration in environmental health sciences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental studies from UCLA. Elena brings her lived experience growing up in the Inland Empire to lead environmental equity work for vulnerable communities.

Eleni Jacobson | [email protected] 

Growing up in car-dependent suburbs of San Francisco radicalized me against single occupancy vehicle travel, and my career since 2017 centers around helping others find other options to get around.

Ellie Coon | [email protected] 

Hi, I'm Ellie Coon, a graduate student at UC Davis researching the social infrastructure behind Central Valley growers and how a deeper understanding of farmer-led networks can facilitate the shift toward regenerative agriculture. I have experience partnering with Cooperative Extension on agroforestry research and real-world implementation outcomes. This work supports my overall goal of creating outreach materials that bridge the gap between science and on-farm practice.

Emilie Changeux | [email protected] 

Emilie is a masters student in the Environmental Policy and Management Program and a researcher with the Global South Center at UC Davis. With a background in environmental social science and justice, her work centers on building equitable access to food systems and public resources through participatory engagement. At the Global South Center, Emilie supports binational transportation planning collaboration across the Baja California-California border region, with a focus on advancing decarbonization, mobility, and equity for border communities.

Emily Malton | [email protected] 

Hello! I'm an environmental scientist with the State Water Resources Control Board. My work is primarily focused on implementing lead and copper drinking water regulations.

Francisca (Mar) Ruger | [email protected] 

I am currently in my 3rd year working in the public sector, as an Environmental Program Manager at Caltrans headquarters. I spent the majority of my professional career (23 years) working in the private sector for an environmental consulting firm. I also spent a few years assisting in research projects working for the UCD Institute of Transportation Studies.

Isabella Buford | [email protected] 

Isabella worked as a CAES Dean’s Office peer advisor for 3 years and graduated from EPAP in 2021. After working at the UC Davis ECLS, she went on to pursue a master’s of science at Tufts University in the Boston area. Isabella is now the Community Planning Manager with the City of Providence, RI. Isabella is originally from Southern California and is a proud mixed-race woman who is passionate about environmental justice, green infrastructure, and youth engagement. Feel free to ask her about her favorite book of the year, current album on replay, or the next event she is hosting! 

Izidor (Izzy) Brisco Schofield | [email protected] 

Hello, my name is Izzy and I just started my career in transportation planning at a consulting firm in Sacramento! I would love the opportunity to help guide a mentee through transportation-related opportunities at Davis and securing a career in the field of transportation.

Jaclyn Lea | [email protected] 

Jaclyn is a Policy Associate II at Atlas Public Policy, where she leads research and analysis on transportation electrification, building decarbonization, and federal climate investments. Jaclyn holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning from UC Davis.

Jacob Cools | [email protected] 

I was a 25-year old freshman (2007) at UC Davis who was in the middle of a 22-year career in the Marine Corps. I ended my active duty career an Environmental Engineering Management Officer at Marine Corps Air Station. I retired to Central Oregon in 2024 and am working as an Environmental Analyst for a power company. My 4 years at Davis (including UC Berkeley Summer Forestry program) were the most significant years of my life.

Jacqueline (Jackie) Su | [email protected] 

I'm Jackie Su, a UC Davis EPAP and ECN alumna. I started grad school (UCLA; Master's in Urban and Regional Planning, transportation focus) right after undergrad. Currently, I'm a Transportation Planning Manager at LA Metro. In my role, I manage the environmental clearance and design of transit and active transportation corridors. I also manage a number of pedestrian- focused infrastructure grants with local jurisdictions.

Jason Hill | [email protected] 

Hallie Dugar | [email protected] 

I’m Hallie Dugar, a 2023 graduate in Environmental Science & Management. After graduating I worked in both public and private sectors. I started in Floor Analysis for the California State Assembly for about a year before moving to a business development position for a start-up working on food waste vaporization. This carried me into September of 2025 where I moved to London for my Master’s degree in Smart Energy and the Built Environment, which centered around decarbonization of the energy system. Just a few weeks ago, I submitted my thesis on exploring retrofit pathways using machine learning and intelligent optimization. Now, I’m working towards obtaining my graduate visa and exploring jobs in the renewable energy/ decarbonization field as an expat in England!

Jess Lam | [email protected] 

Jessica Lam is a Senior Market Specialist at Microsoft, where she focuses on climate innovation, low-carbon materials, and supply chain decarbonization. Her work spans market development, procurement, and investment strategies that help bring emerging climate technologies to commercial scale. Through her involvement with Microsoft’s Climate Innovation Fund, she works at the intersection of business, technology, and sustainability. Prior to joining Microsoft, Jessica worked in climate philanthropy and consulting. As a mentor, Jessica offers perspectives on sustainability careers, navigating cross-functional organizations, and translating academic interests into real-world impact. Jessica has a B.S. in Environmental Policy and Planning from the University of California Davis, and a Master of Environmental Management in Economics from Duke University.

John Peconom | [email protected] 

John Peconom is a Program Manager with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Washington DC. John is responsible for conducting environmental reviews of energy infrastructure projects consistent with the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act. John has experience with natural gas transmission pipelines projects and associated facilities, hydroelectric projects, and their impacts on the environment. When not working, John spends a lot of time on foot, on a bike, and in a kayak.

Julie Newton | [email protected] 

Julie is currently the Environmental Coordinator with Sacramento County, overseeing the County’s environmental review program, including CEQA compliance, mitigation monitoring and South Sacramento Habitat Conservation Plan implementation. She has B.S. Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning from UC Davis, with a focus on regional planning and a minor in GIS. She also has a Professional Science Masters from Oregon State University in Environmental Science. Her past professional experience also includes work in land use planning and remote sensing. While attending UC Davis she was a member of the Equestrian Team, competing in hunter/jumpers and dressage, and worked at the Equestrian Center as a riding instructor and barn manager.

Kathleen Schaefer | [email protected] 

Dr. Kathleen Schaefer is a civil engineer and flood management expert with decades of experience in the field. Now partially retired, she serves on the Marin Civil Grand Jury and a number of government, non-profit, and for-profit boards, and works with the California Department of Water Resources on its "State as a Community" program.

Kelly Trujillo | [email protected] 

Kelly J. Trujillo was appointed to the Solano County Superior Court bench in January 2024 by Governor Gavin Newsom. Prior to her appointment, Judge Trujillo was an attorney for 17 years practicing mostly in the area of municipal law. Judge Trujillo graduated from UC Davis in 2003 with a Bachelors of Science in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning. She then attended Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon where she graduated with honors in 2006.

Kelsey Kruger | [email protected] 

My background is a mix of soil science, ecology, and agronomy, starting with a B.S. in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems from UC Davis and then getting my M.S. in Agroecology from the University of Wisconsin Madison. While getting my M.S. I researched how farm management practices influence phosphorus concentrations in runoff. After graduating, I worked in a lab researching the impact of fire on soil and soil microbes. I am currently an Environmental Scientist at the SF Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board where I issue Water Quality Certifications and Waste Discharge Requirements under the Section 401 of the Clean Water Act and the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act. In my free time I enjoy birding, cycling, and baking bread!

Kimberly Evans | [email protected] 

I'm a Master's student in the Graduate Group in Ecology at UC Davis. My research focuses on a migratory fish species (Sacramento splittail) in the San Francisco Estuary. I help to run the Suisun Marsh Fish Study, a long-term fish monitoring program.

Lauren Timmons | [email protected] 

Lauren is an Environmental Scientist with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and earned her M.S. in Soils and Biogeochemistry from UC Davis. Her graduate research focused on how wildfire affects soil health recovery in California forests, and her experience has taken her from field and laboratory research to a career in state government. She is excited to share what she has learned along the way about research, graduate school, and building a career in environmental science.

Mackenzie Moore | [email protected] 

I graduated summer of 2024 from UC Davis with my BS in Environmental Science and Management with an emphasis in Ecology, Biodiversity, and Conservation. I now work as an Air Quality Inspector for the Maricopa County Air Quality Department. Currently, most nights after work, you can find me working on my grad school homework, but when I have free time, I enjoy fiber arts, watching rom-coms, cooking new recipes with my fiancé, getting a sweet treat, thrifting with friends, and attending a local women's run club.

Marjorie Rhodes | [email protected] 

Inspired by her time volunteering, interning, and working at various environmental organizations, Marjorie started her career in the environmental horticulture field during her time studying Environmental Science and Management at UC Davis. After graduating in 2021, she then worked as a horticulturist at the Fullerton Arboretum, and now has been a Restoration Project Manager working with coastal sage scrub ecosystems since January 2024. Currently, she is also pursuing a Master's of Science in Biology at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Outside of being a full-time plant person, Marjorie greatly enjoys practicing her creative side through drawing and crocheting, as well as running and skating.

Matthew Chu | [email protected] 

After graduating with my EPAP degree, I've had a unique career path in waste management and environmental consulting. I hope to share my experiences and provide insight on your potential career path.

Matthew MacLachlan | [email protected] 

My website has my information www.matthewmaclachlan.com/

Md Musfiqur Rahman Bhuiya | [email protected] 

I am an international student from Bangladesh. I am pursuing PhD in Transportation Technology and Planning. I have completed my bachelor and masters in Urban and Regional Planning from Bangladesh. Later, I completed my masters in Geography as well as masters in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering. 
My research focuses on mobility justice and transportation equity, with a focus on identifying policy interventions to improve mobility of people of disabilities.

Priya Shukla | [email protected] 

Priya Shukla (she/her) is currently a Senior Associate at Strategic Earth Consulting, where she supports Tribal and community engagement for multiple environmental projects. She has spent over a decade studying how climate change impacts California coastal systems, including kelp forests, seagrass beds, oyster farms, and whale populations. She received her PhD in Ecology and Bachelor's in Environmental Science and Management from UC Davis as well as a Master's in Ecology from San Diego State University. She has also written for Forbes Science, taught 'K-to-Grey' populations via public education programs in the Bay Area, and worked at the science-policy interface as a COMPASS Policy Engagement Fellow and Science Engagement Specialist with the California Ocean Science Trust.

Rob Tull | [email protected] 

I have worked in environmental planning and engineering in the private sector for the last 40 years. I have experience with water, wastewater, agriculture, and water resources management projects with USBR, DWR, USACE, NRCS, and local municipal agencies.

S. Mohsen Fatemi | [email protected] 

S. Mohsen Fatemi is an Associate Researcher in the Department of Economics and a PhD candidate in Public Administration at the University of Kansas. His research focuses on environmental and energy policy, utility governance and regulation, energy justice, climate resilience, and organizational behavior and compliance. His interdisciplinary background spans architecture, urban planning, public administration, and applied energy research.

Sanjay Marwah | [email protected] 

I have worked as a researcher and educator in environment, sociology, criminology, criminal justice, transportation, and economic for over 30 years. I love connecting theory & research to policy/practice.

Tom Kimball | [email protected] 

Tom Kimball is an experienced environmental researcher whose career began with foundational work at the UC Davis Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory and Moss Landing Marine Labs. He later transitioned to the State Water Quality Control Board before bringing his extensive regional expertise to the USGS Western Ecological Research Center (WERC).