Fellows and Ambassadors
Meet the 2024-25 Fellows and Ambassadors
Hometown:
Hockessin, Delaware
Current student status:
I am a first-year student in the Full-time MBA Program. I have an anticipated concentration in supply chain and operations management.
Educational background:
B.S. in Chemical Engineering (University of Delaware, 2020)
What are some fun facts about yourself?
Metal is my favorite music genre, and I play the guitar!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Like Ray, I believe that business can be a force of good in this world. I have been committed to pursuing sustainability opportunities in my education and career thus far. In my undergraduate chemical engineering studies, I minored in environmental engineering and environmental sustainability so I could be equipped with a foundation of knowledge and skills that would allow me to act sustainably in a historically harmful profession (oil and gas). Through my professional career as a manufacturing process engineer and power plant engineer, I worked with environmental compliance personnel to find process improvements or alternate waste technologies that would reduce our emissions and/or plastic wastes.
I am very passionate about the concept of the circular economy, so in my daily life I try my best to recycle and use reusable products. When I moved to Atlanta from Delaware, I opted not to bring my car with me and am pushing myself to walk or bike wherever I go.
From the fellowship, I would like to get a better understanding of how sustainable business solutions are implemented in the real world. Ultimately, I want to be part of a bigger movement where sustainability can be profitable as well as good for the planet and people.
Where are you from?
Jakarta, Indonesia
Current student status:
I am a first-year industrial and systems engineering major with a concentration in analytics and data science.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I love to sing!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
As an educational host for a TV show for three years, I’ve incorporated sustainability into the program. The show reaches over six million households. I’ve discussed topics such as how to recycle waste into useful products (like a bookshelf made of used cardboard) and inspiring stories of sustainability pioneers. I have traveled to rural areas to shoot stories about forest conservation and have interviewed people who made a career creating crafts out of waste. As an industrial and systems engineering major, I am learning how to optimize processes to maximize resource efficiency. I’ve pursued this by creating tech-sustainability projects such as Ecologia, a platform promoting recycling through a recommender and gamified incentives. The project won first place in the University of Southampton’s Sustainable Business Competition.
Hometown:
São Paulo, Brazil
Current student status:
I am a first-year industrial engineering major and am considering the operations research concentration path.
What are some fun facts about yourself?
My dad’s side of the family is from Greece, so I can speak a little bit of Greek! I also had the chance to live in Florida throughout middle school and the beginning of high school.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is rooted in the belief that innovative thinking can drive transformative change. In 11th grade, I developed a sustainable energy storage system using a sand battery to address the energy needs of the underserved region of Caraíva, Brazil. This project earned praise from engineers, reinforcing my determination to create solutions that make a tangible impact on communities in need. Later that year, I designed a satellite plan to reduce educational inequality across Brazil. This proposal led me to the final phase of the Brazilian Satellite Olympiad, further encouraging me to harness technology to tackle pressing social challenges. I also had the opportunity to intern at Schneider Electric. As the Fortune 500 company’s first high school student, I developed a project focused on distributing safe, clean energy to remote communities in need. In my future career as an engineer, I aim to integrate sustainability into every aspect of my work, employing quantitative methodologies to optimize decision-making processes in complex and unpredictable environments, particularly in emerging countries.
Hometown:
Duluth, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year business administration major with a concentration in accounting.
What are some fun facts about yourself?
I worked as a barista for two years and finally mastered latte art!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I believe that small, consistent efforts can create meaningful change, whether in the community or at home. Early in high school, I started assisting with the Adopt-A-Road program at my spiritual center, where I helped organize volunteers for biweekly clean-ups. At home, my family and I prioritize sustainable practices as well, such as recycling and composting food for our backyard garden. My involvement extends further through my support of my spiritual center’s annual tree-planting events – a straightforward yet impactful way to give back to the environment. In addition, I volunteer at an animal rescue shelter, caring for abused and neglected animals; these moments with the animals are especially fulfilling. To align with my values on sustainability, I also focus on sustainable fashion by reusing and redesigning clothing, often thrifting and tailoring pieces to express my style while reducing waste.
Hometown:
Columbia, Maryland
Current student status:
I am a third-year industrial and systems engineering major with a minor in sustainable cities.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I can recite the 50 states in alphabetical order!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I was taught from a young age to value people and the natural world around me. In middle school, I started writing for a community newsletter, promoting sustainable living habits and sharing stories about local farms and nature centers. I wanted to illustrate how environmental issues affect our lives and the responsibility we all have for our collective future. I continued my environmental advocacy work throughout high school, receiving a Gold Award to bring awareness of sustainable practices to an international level through social media. But sustainability isn’t just about the environment; there are also the economic and social equity factors that must be held in a careful balance to become truly sustainable long-term. Ray C. Anderson understood this, and his namesake Center is actively working to spread these connected ideas into industry and education. I have full intent to pursue an engineering career where I can innovate ideas that too integrate sustainable practices that protect the environment, local economies, and all social groups.
Where did you grow up?
Atlanta, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year student in the Full-time MBA Program.
Educational background:
B.A. in Sociology, Minor in Education (University of California, Santa Barbara; 2020)
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have lived in five countries: South Africa, France, the US, the UK, and Japan. Traveling has shaped my understanding of sustainability a lot. In particular, living in California and Japan and visiting Haiti gave me a glimpse into the huge array of challenges and successes with waste management around the world.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Sustainability is of key importance to me. I believe that it’s our calling to preserve our collective quality of life, and to pass light, joy, and opportunity on to future generations. This is my personal mission, and I believe that sustainability is a mindset that can be integrated into any role or industry. If we all take the resources and needs of our planet into consideration in our respective spheres of influence, our impact will be huge.
Prior to coming to Scheller, I was an elementary teacher and received a grant to spearhead a composting initiative and source compostable alternatives to single-use plastics for our cafeteria. That initiative, which garnered support across the community and involved every individual at our school, reduced our CO2e emissions by over 18,000 lbs. in its first year. The most meaningful part of the experience was driving innovation that included students, staff and faculty in the process and took various stakeholders’ needs into account. When it comes to moving ESG initiatives forward, I believe that integrity, empathy, patience, and diplomacy are essential.
Hometown:
Suwanee, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a second-year public policy major.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Earlier this year, I spent four months in Italy as an au pair.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Public policy majors are taught to take on a large focus. This is incredibly important while developing and understanding public policy initiatives. However, it is also important to enrich our own communities. In 2019, I combined my passion for cooking with my drive for sustainability and started a social media account focused on sustainable recipes. I connected with brands such as Cedars, Lotus Foods, and Coconut Bowls, which gave me the opportunities to share my recipes under their image. I have noticed that many people are turned off by the idea of incorporating plant-based recipes into their cooking. My goal is to remove the stigma surrounding plant-based meals and to bring into light how delicious and sustainable recipes can be! I have also found a passion for urban gardening through my school and community. Urban gardening allowed me to foster social interactions while learning about waste reduction, resource efficiency, and reduction of carbon footprints. In the future, I hope to continue educating others about my passions while taking a sustainable approach.
Hometown:
Dallas, Texas
Current student status:
I am a student in the Executive MBA Class of 2025, specializing in the Management of Technology (MOT) concentration.
Background:
I earned my B.S. in Marketing with honors from Hampton University in 2006. Since then, I have gained nearly 20 years of experience in the technology sales and consulting industry.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I enjoy combining adventure and relaxation, whether by hiking scenic trails, exploring international cuisines through cooking, indulging in wine tastings, or finding balance through exercise, meditation, and yoga. Traveling allows me to experience the world beyond my own perspective, and I’m always eager to discover new destinations and flavors.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Sustainability is a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life, shaping my actions and decisions. My vision is to integrate sustainability practices into every aspect of my business and personal endeavors, driving meaningful, lasting impact on the environment and society.
As the founder and principal of Pearson Stephens, I am committed to embedding sustainability into our consulting services. We are expanding our capabilities to include green technology solutions, sustainable data management, and strategies that help clients reduce their environmental footprint through efficient operations and responsible resource use. A major initiative I am leading involves developing a comprehensive sustainability assessment framework for our clients, empowering them to identify opportunities to implement practices aligned with global sustainability standards.
On a personal level, I strive to live sustainably by transitioning my home to renewable energy, increasing my reliance on ride-sharing, and reducing waste through mindful consumption. For me, sustainability is not just a trend but an enduring commitment and a shared responsibility. Through these efforts, I aim to create a ripple effect of positive change that resonates across my professional pursuits and daily life.
Hometown:
Houma, Louisiana
Background:
I received my B.S. in Kinesiology, Human Movement: Pre-Physical Therapy from Louisiana State University in 2012. I am a non-traditional software engineer. In 2016, I attended Operation Spark, a coding boot camp in New Orleans, to transition into the tech industry.
Current student status:
I am a second-year Evening MBA student with a concentration in strategy and innovation and an anticipated graduation date of May 2025. I am in the final semester of TI:GER (Technology Innovation: Generating Economic Results).
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I was born in the United States and am a U.S. citizen, but I lived in the Philippines from the age of nine months until six years old. I am half Nigerian, and I visit Nigeria and Ghana every December.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I am from a community where the oil and offshore drilling industry has been the economic backbone. However, catastrophic events like the 2010 BP oil spill have wreaked havoc on our region’s wildlife and ecosystems. My vision for our city’s future involves diversifying into sustainable industries, such as solar panel manufacturing. This transition would not only provide viable employment opportunities but also allow residents to maintain their livelihoods while preserving the environmental integrity of our community.
I have experienced multiple hurricanes. Hurricane Ida in 2021 led to a three-week power outage in New Orleans due to poor infrastructure. This experience displaced me for almost a month and ultimately led to my decision to leave my beloved New Orleans for Atlanta. I’ve been actively seeking ways to improve storm readiness and infrastructure primarily in low-income communities. To channel my frustration into action, I produced a civic engagement hackathon to develop the technology workforce and establish a culture of civic participation in New Orleans. The hackathon focused on storm resilience and improving responses to extreme weather events. It successfully brought together coders, designers, engineers, civic leaders, and students at the University of New Orleans to co-create solutions.
Hometown:
Carrollton, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year student in the Executive MBA Program and will graduate in December 2025. My specialization is management of technology (MoT).
Background:
In 2000, I received two undergraduate degrees from the University of Georgia: a BBA in Accounting and a B.A. in French. In 2006, I received a certificate of professional French studies with a concentration in business from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. I am a certified public accountant in the state of Georgia.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I studied accounting because I wanted to speak French.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Early in my career, I realized that at the end of each day I wanted to be able to say that I have done something to make this world a little bit of a better place. Professionally, I decided I wanted to work with nonprofits. I am energized by my clients’ work and absolutely love supporting them through my role as an external auditor, accountant, and business advisor. When I was exposed to the alternative business structure of a cooperative, I pivoted my professional focus to that. I see cooperatives as combining the passion for changing the world that the nonprofit sector has with the inherent self-interest of the capitalist system in which we operate. By shifting the power of the business to the employees who work there, the consumers who shop there, or the residents who live there, almost everyone benefits. In the past ten years of my career, I have become an expert business advisor to cooperatives that have changed their communities for the better, and I love every moment of this work.
Hometown:
Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
Current student status:
I am a fourth-year general industrial engineering major.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I grew up in a city at an altitude of 1900 meters, and my hometown’s cuisine includes a variety of poisonous fungi (not toxic if fully cooked).
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I consistently seek ways to reduce my environmental impact and adjust my habits based on what I learn about sustainability. I’ve become more mindful of waste reduction by organizing and sorting trash properly and taking steps to prevent overconsumption. After recognizing the wastefulness of bulk buying during sales, I shifted my approach, opting for more frequent, smaller purchases, significantly reducing my food waste. I also prioritize sustainable transportation, relying on public transit in Atlanta and choosing ride-sharing with multiple passengers whenever possible. I only use a personal vehicle for essential activities like moving or long trips.
While my professional experience in sustainability is still developing, I’ve started aligning my data analysis with sustainability goals. For example, for group projects in a course on energy and the green economy, I’ve applied my knowledge to energy efficiency calculations, helping assess ways to reduce energy consumption. My goal is to integrate sustainability into both my personal and professional life, focusing on sustainable industrial practices, sustainable urban development, and data-driven solutions.
Hometown:
Marietta, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a fourth-year public policy major concentrating in environmental and energy policy and minoring in microeconomics of strategic analysis.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I’m a huge live music fan, and I’ve made it a goal to experience every concert venue in Atlanta. So far, I’ve been to 11!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is rooted in both my personal and professional experiences. My goal is to merge economic growth with environmental responsibility in a way that promotes sustainable development. Studying public policy and economics has given me a solid foundation for analyzing this intersection, and has equipped me with a deep understanding of the policy and economic frameworks that influence sustainability. Throughout my time at Tech, I have worked on projects with various sustainability initiatives, such as developing a strategy to achieve 30% sustainable aviation fuel usage at a UPS Anchorage hub and exploring the regulatory policy behind making consumer products, like washing machines, more efficient and sustainable. These projects combine technical, economic, and policy challenges, all while reinforcing sustainability. Moving forward, I plan to deepen my expertise in environmental policy and sustainability by pursuing studies and seeking roles that allow me to make an impact. My studies and experiences have reinforced my belief that sustainability is not just a moral obligation but an essential economic strategy.
Hometown:
Hyderabad, India
Current student status:
I am in my first semester of pursuing the Master of Sustainable Energy and Environmental Management (MSEEM) degree with a focus on advanced research methods.
Educational background:
I received my B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from Amrita School of Engineering in 2014, and my MSc in Mechanical Engineering from Coventry University in 2016. I have worked in sustainability technology and strategy for seven years.
What are some fun facts about yourself?
I love geography and history (I often combine the two). I can also speak six languages.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is one of the most important aspects of my life. I have worked in the sustainability field for the past eight years, specifically in the clean fuels, renewable energy, and green cities verticals. I have immense ambition towards decarbonization and strongly believe a carbon neutral world is possible in my lifetime.
I was a leader for the corporate social responsibility team when I was managing multiple wards of my city in transitioning to bio-toilets and sustainable waste management. I also was the technology pioneer for the implementation of clean fuels for transportation pilot projects in India. I have garnered experience on how to navigate both corporate and governmental sides of the sustainability journey.
Hometown:
San Diego, California
Current student status:
I am a first-year computer science major focusing in the threads on intelligence and devices. I also hope to minor in either math or robotics.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I can speak three languages and love learning more!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I have made it my personal mission to live more responsibly and to advocate for eco-friendly practices. I have integrated sustainable practices into my daily life, from carrying reusable bags and water bottles to adopting a plant-based diet. During my senior year of high school, I was a policy intern at Councilmember Joe LaCava’s office in San Diego. I worked on initiatives aimed at reducing the district’s carbon emissions and improving public transportation infrastructure and advocated for projects that prioritize green spaces and eco-friendly building materials.
In my academic journey, I have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge of sustainability, especially in city planning and policy. I am particularly drawn to the concept of smart cities, where technology is utilized to create energy-efficient, accessible environments for all residents. I envision cities that are eco-friendly and socially sustainable, designed to meet the needs of diverse populations. Ultimately, my commitment to sustainability is rooted in a desire to leave behind a world in which our current and future generations can thrive.
Hometown:
Orlando, Florida
Current student status:
I am a part-time student majoring in chemical and biomolecular engineering and interning at a consulting firm in environmental services and energy project coordination. I have a minor in sustainable cities and the certificate in sustainable business.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
My whole closet is thrifted!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
This summer, as a sustainability compliance intern at Spirit AeroSystems, I was able to implement and integrate sustainable practices into various aspects of the manufacturing operations for airplanes. I implemented a sustainable transportation proposal to improve the site’s efficiency while cutting carbon emissions. I was also able to help divert manufacturing plastic waste to a non-profit recycling center. During the internship, I also participated in Georgia Tech’s Carbon Reduction Challenge. The project deepened my understanding of how manufacturing can integrate more sustainability into their process and operations.
I envision a career in which I can contribute to sustainability from a compliance/legal perspective and by improving processes within manufacturing environments. My goal is to advocate for stricter controls on harmful chemicals to promote more sustainable practices within the chemical industry. To achieve this, I plan to pursue an environmental law degree, which will equip me with the expertise needed to influence environmental regulations and ensure compliance in various industries.
Hometown:
Acworth, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a second-year business administration major with a concentration in operations and supply chain management. I am also pursuing certificates in entrepreneurship and sustainable business.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have visited three of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.”
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is a newer aspect of my daily life that emerged during my senior year of high school in an environmental science course. While in this course, I learned about the “tragedy of the commons” and began to understand the implications that disruptive human and business activities may have on our environment. Additionally, this course and the knowledge it brought to me led to me altering my daily habits. For example, after learning that the average ten-minute shower uses nearly 20 gallons of water, I began to strive to use less water in my everyday life. Other changes to my daily schedule included carpooling with friends, using public transportation when possible, and helping my mom save seeds to act more sustainably and create an expanding, beautiful garden in our backyard. I have taken the initiative to continue these practices while also encouraging my friends and family to do the same. I want sustainability to be an integral component of both my future life and career. My keen interest in the aerospace industry is something I would love to pair with a more enhanced knowledge of sustainable business practices and programs.
Hometown:
Atlanta, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a third-year student with two majors: civil engineering, and industrial and systems engineering with a concentration in operations research. I also have a minor in Spanish.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Scuba diving is one of my favorite hobbies. I particularly like to swim with sharks.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in my awareness of the environmental challenges we face and my desire to contribute positively for my generation and those to come. Personally, I prioritize green methods of transportation whenever feasible. I find that walking, running, and biking not only reduce my carbon footprint but also significantly enhance my well-being. At Georgia Tech, one notable initiative I undertook was raising the temperature of the air conditioning in unused rooms in my fraternity house. The effort has contributed to energy savings and carbon reduction; it also has raised awareness among my peers about the impact of small changes on energy consumption. Additionally, during my co-op rotations, I carpooled with colleagues. This practice not only reduced our collective carbon footprint but also allowed me to forge new friendships and strengthen professional relationships through our shared commutes. The conversations during these car rides often revolve around sustainability topics, further reinforcing our commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
Hometown:
Downingtown, Pennsylvania
Current student status:
I am a second-year business administration major, concentrating in finance.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I once hiked up Cascade Mountain in Lake Placid, New York, during a snowfall. The six-hour trek through the snow was tough, but the view at the top made it all worth it!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Sustainability isn’t just an interest – it’s at the heart of who I am. It shapes the way I live, the choices I make, and how I see my future. I carry reusable bags to the grocery store, avoid single-use plastics, choose eco-friendly products, drive an electric vehicle, and help my mom grow fresh produce at home. These everyday habits seem small, but they’re intentional steps towards protecting a world I care about.
This passion weaves through my work as well. As a senior consultant with Epic Intentions, I helped Purposeful Gourmet Foods analyze trends in Meals on Wheels’ sales data to reduce waste and cut down on unnecessary packaging. In the Finance Society, my research into sustainable investments has shown me how finance can be a powerful way to drive impact. Volunteering with the Society of Women in Business and at my local food bank keeps me connected to the community I strive to support.
My goal is to take this passion further and become a venture capital partner, investing in sustainability-driven startups that drive change. To me, being a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow” means caring deeply about the world and acting on it every single day.
Hometown:
Atlanta, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year industrial engineering major pursuing a concentration in supply chain engineering.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I was born in Ukraine and lived there until about seven years ago when I moved to Atlanta and started my life in the United States.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
From a young age, I was taught about the importance of the environment and how we treat it. As a kid, I explored the forest and went mushroom picking with my family, which helped me fall in love with nature. Sustainability is a core part of how I now live my daily life. Throughout high school, many of the volunteer events I organized for the International Club were centered around improving the community through increased sustainability. During one of our fundraisers, volunteers cleaned trash around our high school and then gave a presentation to students on the importance of keeping our environment clean. One of the main reasons I am passionate about pursuing supply chain engineering is the impact that improving efficiency can bring. Wasting less improves our carbon impact and enhances organizational performance. The future of business is one that is net zero, achieved in part through sustainable supply chains.
Hometown:
Dalton, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a third-year industrial engineering major with a concentration in analytics and data Science. I am also pursuing a minor in environmental science.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I love fragrance and have made my own perfume.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
The most important practice in my personal commitment to sustainability is being a mindful consumer. I prioritize reusability, buy less and buy better, and consider a product’s full lifecycle.
Growing up in the “Carpet Capital of the World,” I had a firsthand experience of how pollution affects minority communities. I know people who work night shifts at carpet factories in order to make ends meet, and some are suffering health effects from doing so. My parents are Vietnamese immigrants, and one of their reasons for leaving Vietnam was pollution. The people around me are my motivations to continue the conversation of sustainability in my daily life.
I participate in organizations such as ElectrifyGT to continue the mission of environmental responsibility at Georgia Tech. I was a recent intern at Saia LTL, where I also participated in the Carbon Reduction Challenge and advocated for a sustainability initiative about retrofitting diesel-fueled trucks to run on compressed natural gas. I believe I can contribute to my generation’s fight for the future and leave an ongoing impact for the changemakers that come after me.
Hometown:
Peachtree City, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year student in the Full-time MBA Program and plan to have a concentration in finance and sustainability.
Background:
I received a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering from Louisiana State University in 2019. I have spent the last five years optimizing field operations and conducting research on enhanced oil recovery.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have worked in the most northern point of America, which borders the Arctic Ocean. I missed the polar plunge but dipped my foot in the water (you wouldn't want to swim in it!).
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Sustainability means a few different things to me, the first of which is self reliance. If you are self reliant, then you no longer burden others. You can lift small burdens by doing household chores or pulling your weight in a project. You can also contribute to reducing a problem as large as climate change by reducing your personal carbon footprint. I have tried to implement carbon-saving tactics into my everyday life, with the simplest being a reduction in vehicle emissions.
At my last job, I was able to switch lab workers from single-use plastic weigh boats to reusable versions. While this was a small change in everyday operations, the savings in plastic waste added up quickly.
As a Fellow, I look forward to the opportunity to work with other individuals focused on creating a more sustainable future.
Hometown:
Brookhaven, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a second-year industrial and systems engineering major with a concentration in analytics and data science and a minor in German.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have visited 30 countries and am a huge fan of ecotourism.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Seeing natural wonders on family camping trips around the United States, coupled with learning about the threats to the preservation of these places, established my passion for sustainability. I take small steps in every aspect of my daily life in order to reduce my impact. I avoid single-use packaging, always carry a reusable water bottle, and shop secondhand. About three-quarters of the clothes I own are pre-loved. It brings me special satisfaction when someone compliments my outfit, knowing that I saved the clothes from a landfill.
As a part of the Building for Equity and Sustainability VIP at Georgia Tech, I worked with the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance to devise an action plan for increased community engagement. We analyzed components of sustainable design and researched the unique history of the Atlanta West End neighborhood in order to preserve its culture for future generations. Working with this nonprofit and others has exposed me to the strength and passion that organizations centered around sustainability have – and has inspired me to lead my own nonprofit or sustainable startup in the future. I am excited to grow as a leader in sustainability as a part of this program and prepare myself for a meaningful and impactful career!
Hometown:
Falls Church, Virginia
Current student status:
I’m a second-year chemical and biomolecular engineering major with a sustainable cities minor.
What are some fun facts about yourself?
In my free time, I love to crochet clothing to go thrifting. I also like to write raps on Band Lab.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My personal commitment to sustainability, right now, mostly focuses on my materialistic consumption. I limit the amount of things I buy, thereby reducing things that eventually go to a landfill. I repair clothes that rip or have holes and revamp clothes I’ve fallen out of love with into “new” clothes that are trendy yet sustainably made. Professionally, I’m interested in how we source and use energy. Over the summer, I interned at the Center for Bioenergy and Bioproduct Innovations, researching an environmentally friendly and recyclable solvent to sustainably produce ethanol, a biofuel. On campus, I’m involved with research looking at direct air capture technology and its potential for mass use. As a side project, I’m also researching how energy is used within certain buildings on campus to see if there are ways we can reduce usage. I’ve joined Electrify GT, which is looking to electrify aspects of the campus. Eventually, I hope to work in a role that reduces carbon emissions or reduces the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.
Hometown:
Powder Springs, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a first-year industrial and systems engineering major following the analytics and data science track.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am a boxer.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Growing up in Metro Atlanta, I witnessed the fast pace of trees falling, suburbs being built, and traffic increasing. It became my mission to minimize the environmental damage I cause as much as possible. Though public transportation and walkability is limited in my hometown, I keep my Honda vehicle in Eco Drive mode and turn my vehicle off when it’s stationary. I recycle, turn off the lights when they’re not in use, and carry a reusable water bottle. Now as a student at Georgia Tech, I get around by walking, taking MARTA, riding a bike/scooter, or using rideshare in an effort to reduce my carbon footprint. As an intern with an environmental engineering firm, I collaborated with the City of Cartersville to monitor the water quality of the Etowah Watershed and create project plans and steps to increase the quality. I gained experience in working with the EPA to improve a municipality’s environment. In my career, I aim to work for companies that have sustainability at the forefront of their projects and daily operations.
Hometown:
Athens, Georgia
Current student status:
I began the Evening MBA Program in January 2024, I plan to have concentrations in strategy and innovation, and sustainability. My anticipated graduation date is May 2026.
Educational background:
B.S. in Chemical Engineering (Georgia Institute of Technology, 2014)
M.S. in Analytics (Georgia Institute of Technology, 2019)
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I went on a safari for my honeymoon and managed to spot the Big 5 (leopard, lion, rhino, elephant, and buffalo)!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
My commitment to sustainability is grounded in the belief that consistent actions can create significant change when it comes to protecting our environment. In my personal life, I make use of public transportation or walk whenever possible. Part of the reason why my wife and I decided to move to our current home was due to its walkability. Additionally, I’ve transitioned to supporting clothing brands that place a heavier emphasis on sustainable practices. Professionally, I work as a reliability engineer and operate mainly in heavy industry (oil and gas, mining, specialty chemical, fertilizer). My work has given me a glimpse into the practices at a wide number of organizations. While many (most) of these organizations have sustainability initiatives, I believe there is significant room for improvement and advancement. In this fellowship , broadly speaking, I want to learn how sustainability intersects with economics, policy, and societal impact, which will equip me to think more critically about solutions.
Hometown:
Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India
Current student status:
I am in the Executive MBA Program, Class of 2025, with a focus on the global business track.
Educational Background:
B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering (Sri Venkateswara University, 2004)
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I recently started roller skating! It’s been a great way to challenge myself physically and mentally, and I enjoy the process of mastering a new skill that requires balance, focus, and persistence.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
Like Ray, I believe in challenging conventional systems and embracing innovative, sustainable approaches to address global challenges. Sustainability is more than a philosophy for me; it’s a commitment I practice daily.
On a personal level, I make conscious choices that reflect my commitment to sustainable living – choosing stairs over elevators, prioritizing walking, and practicing mindful consumption. I also approach problem-solving with empathy, understanding different perspectives, which I believe is essential in creating impactful solutions.
Professionally, my experience in supply chain management has shown me the potential for optimizing resources and reducing waste. I focus on improving operational efficiency through technological innovations, ensuring processes are both cost-effective and environmentally responsible. I am dedicated to finding ways to reduce waste and enhance sustainability in operations, continually seeking to integrate circular economy principles in the systems I help design.
I see Ray’s legacy as a call to action: one that requires innovation, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future.
Hometown:
Bangkok, Thailand
Current student status:
I am a second-year electrical engineering major concentrating in electric energy systems and electronic devices.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am fluent in three languages: English, Thai, and Chinese.
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I grew up in Bangkok, a vibrant metropolitan city surrounded by nature on its outskirts but challenged by pollution. This environment inspired me to take proactive steps to improve my community’s sustainability. In eighth grade, I collaborated with a supermarket chain to eliminate plastic bags, setting a precedent that other chains followed. The following year, I founded an environmental club that partnered with Thai universities, the United Nations, and NGOs to organize beach clean-ups and raise awareness about single-use plastics. During the pandemic, I implemented a waste-sorting system at my high school, repurposing collected plastic recyclables into PPE suits.
This passion followed me to Georgia Tech, where I’ve had the chance to contribute directly to my campus. Currently, I serve as the president of ElectrifyGT, a sustainable consulting club focusing on decarbonization strategies for carbon-dense or fossil fuel-emitting infrastructure on campus. My long-term career goal is to be in a leadership position or to work in a company focused on sustainable energy solutions, such as improving solar panel efficiency or enhancing electric vehicle performance. I aim to contribute to a future where clean energy is affordable and accessible.
Hometown:
Roswell, Georgia
Current student status:
I am a fourth-year double major in environmental engineering and applied languages and intercultural studies. I am also minoring in Chinese.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I love to dance salsa and bachata! It’s fun to meet new people both on and off campus!
What makes you a “Ray C. Anderson of tomorrow”?
I have been interested in sustainable living and sustainable development since high school. I am conscious of my day-to-day actions, such as biking whenever possible and reusing items such as water bottles and grocery bags. In the past year, I participated in research of the microbiome in the Kendeda Building (a LEED-certified building) to determine if the microbiome diversity in sustainable buildings differs from that in a “non-sustainable” building. This is ongoing research. I am also the environmental justice chair for the Georgia Tech chapter of the NAACP. As a participant in the 2024 Carbon Reduction Challenge, I learned about measuring carbon savings and the importance of considering cost savings when approaching carbon reductions. My internship at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions has inspired me to continue learning about sustainable remediation techniques and other sustainable energy methods outside of solar energy. My end goal is to work within a sustainability team at a company.