SUSTAINABILITY ORGANIZATIONS

BLUELAB LIVING BUILDING CHALLENGE

I joined BLUElab in 2013 as a very green freshman and it was one of the most fulfilling experiences during my four years at Michigan. Throughout my involvement, I was able to learn about sustainable design, participate in design reviews, interact with various leaders in the space, lead a team as project manager, and also help see in a new generation of leaders.

LIVING BUILDING CHALLENGE

Multi-dimensional lens in sustainable design

Matt Grocoff created a project team centered around retrofitting his own home for all of us to learn about what a fully self-sustaining, integrated household design could look like in the Ann Arbor community. LBC showed me that design does not just center around technology or energy; rather, beauty, equity, site integration, and people are all important factors. Matt was incredible at using this platform to educate, collaborate, and connect with others.

PROJECT MANAGER

Continuing work and empowering others

Though my time as project manager was short, it was one of the biggest privileges and learning experiences. I helped structure our subteams, engaged in policy work with the city of Ann Arbor, grow the team, and lead events like our first sustainability salon shown here.  I loved getting to know the members of the team, trying to help them in their development or putting them in the best position to succeed. Seeing them move on to be leaders of this team or establish their own teams was the most fulfilling part.

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Giving Back to the Community

I participated in the first Development committee for the Executive board and we developed modules, trainings, and events for the entire organization of 200+ people. Empowering the next generation of leaders and project managers was the most fulfilling way to end my experience.