College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Community Sustainability

Advisor: Dr. Adam Zwickle

Ash is a seasoned contributor in community sustainability and sustainable business, with decades of experience in environmentally focused non-profits, environmental consulting, and roles in both the public and private sectors, as well as higher education. Currently, they serve as an Adjunct Professor at Loyola University Chicago, where they teach sustainability assessment, planning, and sustainable business management. Previously, Ash inspired the next generation of leaders in sustainability as a faculty member at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids.

In addition to their academic contributions, Ash has held several key roles in the field. Notably, they are currently a Research Associate and Project Manager at the Toxic Action Lab, where they engage in community-wide engagement and research. Their experience also includes serving as a Senior Consultant in Energy & Environment at Public Sector Consultants and as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Michigan State University, where they directed strategic initiatives and championed campus-wide sustainability efforts.

As a researcher, Ash focuses on community sustainability, climate change, and coalition development. Their dedication to advancing environmental causes is evident in the numerous grants they have secured for impactful projects. Ash has received several accolades, including the MSU University Distinguished Fellowship and the Hazel and Karen Kiser Endowed Fellowship Honorable Mention, among other leadership achievements.

Currently, Ash is pursuing a Ph.D. in Community Sustainability with an interdisciplinary focus on sustainability, environmental sociology, ecology, and feminist theories. This advanced research builds on their foundational education, which includes a Masters of Management degree with a specialization in Organizational Development & Sustainability Leadership from Aquinas College. Ash also holds an Executive Education Certificate in Leadership in Sustainability from Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Their educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Sustainable Business and an Advanced Study Certificate in Design & Innovation Management from Ferris State University's MBA Program, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a dual major in Communications from Aquinas College.

Beyond their professional roles, Ash actively participates in leadership and advisory positions within various organizations and committees dedicated to climate justice, sustainability, and community development. Driven by a passion for sustainability and a commitment to fostering positive change, Ash remains a formidable advocate in the realms of environmental stewardship and sustainable development.