CESR Impact Stories

��ý�� Climate Ventures Connects Leeds MBA Students to Climate Tech Innovation

Dani Saldana Gordillo — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:03:46 +0000

��ý�� Climate Ventures Connects Leeds MBA Students to Climate Tech Innovation Dani Saldana G… Fri, 03/13/2026 - 13:03

Julie Waggoner

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on venture work, students are discovering the business opportunities in climate solutions.

Alex Kaindl (MBA'26)

When Leeds MBA students join ��ý�� Climate Ventures, they step into an experience that reaches far beyond the classroom.

They join teams working on real climate ventures. They collaborate with engineers, PhD students and investors. And they begin to see, in a tangible way, how their business education can contribute to solutions for some of today’s most pressing challenges.

For students interested in entrepreneurship, investing and sustainability, ��ý�� Climate Ventures (BCV) offers a powerful opportunity to connect academic learning with real-world application. BCV is a collaboration between CESR and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at Leeds, and the CU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, funded by Breakthrough Energy. The program is based on a model that Breakthrough Energy has rolled out at five other universities globally, including Stanford and MIT. CU is the first public university to join this group of top universities located in hubs for climate innovation.

BCV started with a seminar series teaching students about business opportunities in climate tech in fall 2025 and has continued into an incubator for early-stage climate start-ups in spring 2026. 190 attendees participated in the fall, hearing from 22 speakers including investors, CEOs and industry experts. This spring more than 30 students have formed teams to explore the viability of new climate ventures.

The program brings together students from across the university, along with community members from Colorado’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, to support and develop climate-focused ventures—giving Leeds MBA students the chance to apply their skills in an interdisciplinary, fast-moving environment.

Fostering connections to power impact

That cross-campus collaboration is part of what makes the experience so distinctive.

“It’s not often that an MBA gets to work on a project, much less be in a class, with a doctoral chemistry student,” said Katherine Ratledge, program manager at CESR and one of the leaders who brings BCV to life.

“BCV teaches engineers and business experts to work together,” said Mike McGehee, professor of engineering and a member of the BCV team. “It teaches them to identify a promising opportunity, do premarket research, refine a business plan and pitch an idea to investors and customers.”

That means moving beyond case studies and into the kind of hands-on work that defines early-stage ventures: shaping business models, exploring market opportunities and helping translate complex ideas into viable solutions.

Katrina Grosek (MBA'26)

For Katrina Grosek (MBA’26, Clean Energy Pathway), BCV has been one of the most energizing parts of her MBA experience. She joined the program while working as an intern helping to launch TerraForge Capital, a new venture fund focused on the energy transition. She said the combination of her internship with getting exposure to climate tech business opportunities every week was powerful.

“Working with the General Partner to build out the fund, while attending BCV sessions in parallel, was the most impactful form of experiential learning I’ve encountered throughout my MBA,” Grosek said. “I got a crash course in Climate 3.0 and how the industry has shifted.”

Grosek connected with the founder of AnodeWorks, an engineer developing an electrochemical manufacturing platform designed to solve the bioplastics scale-up problem, at a happy hour hosted by BCV in the fall. The pair gravitated toward each other to work together this spring thanks to their complementary combination of technical skills and investing experience. In her role as chief of staff, Grosek has helped the founder to build the team and leads business development, strategy, and investor relations.

“Talking about BCV is honestly what gets me going each day,” Grosek said. “It has been one of the best programs I’ve participated in since beginning my full-time MBA at Leeds.”

Deepening MBA skills through real-world experiences

For Jared Haltom (MBA’27, Clean Energy Pathway), BCV has created an opportunity to connect classroom learning with the realities of venture building. He first heard about the program during orientation but did not initially see how he, as an MBA student, would fit into a climate venture environment that seemed heavily technical. Once he joined, that changed quickly.

After participating in the fall seminar series, he now works on business development, financial modeling and techno-economic analysis for AnodeWorks, the same startup developing an electrochemical manufacturing platform designed to solve the bioplastics scale-up problem that Grosek is working with. His role has involved translating highly technical work into a viable market story and helping the team understand production costs, commercial potential and how to communicate with investors.

“Case studies are great, but we’re trying to solve a real problem for a real business here,” Haltom said.

That emphasis on real-world problem-solving helps students build skills that translate across industries and roles—from startup leadership and commercialization to venture capital and climate strategy. It also gives them confidence in navigating ambiguity, working across disciplines and contributing to ventures at an early stage.

Empowering climate founders

Working with MBA students offers tangible benefits for technical founders as well. Marc Manyé Ibáñez, Co-Founder and CEO of AnodeWorks and PhD student in chemical engineering, said the biggest value of BCV has been working with people who bring a different skill set.

“Working with MBA students forces us to really think about this as a real business, rather than just a science project,” Ibáñez said. “They bring a lot of rigor to our market research, but more importantly, they challenge our assumptions.”

BCV has also become a meaningful space for business students interested in building ventures of their own. Alex Kaindl (MBA’26, Sustainability Pathway), who first joined the fall BCV seminars and now participates in the incubator as a founder, said the program has offered structure, accountability and a community of people committed to climate-focused innovation. She’s exploring ideas she’s been passionate about for a long time, including community-based models for wildfire insurance and biodegradable replacements for plastic packaging, like wool that isn’t fine enough to be used to make sweaters, but could be valuable in industrial applications.

“BCV offers a support system for being an entrepreneur but also someone who cares about climate change and improving quality of life for people, planet, animals,” Kaindl said. “The facilitators are really invested in our growth and success. They give honest feedback and connect us with experts that pressure-test our ideas.”

Cultivating next-generation climate innovators

For Betsy Klein, associate director of the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, the community connections and experiential learning are central to the program’s value. BCV gives MBA students hands-on experience working with real climate startups while strengthening CU ��ý��’s broader entrepreneurship ecosystem.

“BCV is helping position CU ��ý�� as a talent pipeline for the climate innovation economy,” Klein said. She’s excited that the program offers “the opportunity to help build the next generation of climate founders, operators, and investors.”

BCV is more than an extracurricular opportunity. It is a space to explore how business skills can support innovation, collaboration and impact. It helps students imagine new professional pathways—ones that bring together purpose, problem-solving and leadership.

And in that way, ��ý�� Climate Ventures is doing more than introducing students to climate entrepreneurship. It is helping them see how their time at Leeds can prepare them to build careers—and contribute solutions—that matter.

BCV is giving Leeds MBA students a hands-on opportunity to engage with climate tech innovation through real venture-building experiences. Through seminars and an incubator program, students apply their MBA skills to early-stage climate startups while developing the next generation of climate entrepreneurs, operators, and investors.

Traditional

White

Meet Carly Simmons: Turning Curiosity Into Impact as a Sustainability Scholar

Dani Saldana Gordillo — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:10:50 +0000

Meet Carly Simmons: Turning Curiosity Into Impact as a Sustainability Scholar Dani Saldana G… Thu, 02/05/2026 - 09:10

Carly Simmons (BusAna,SupChnMgmt SRE'27), a 2025–2026 Sustainability Scholar at the Leeds School of Business, and a student who’s proving just how far passion and purpose can take you. As a junior studying Business Analytics and Supply Chain Management, with minors in Creative Technology & Design and the SRE Certificate, Carly has woven sustainability into nearly every corner of her CU ��ý�� experience. Outside her academic and leadership roles, Carly enjoys hiking, skiing, camping, scrapbooking, and baking—especially key lime pie.

Originally from Reno, Nevada, Carly chose CU ��ý�� for its nationally recognized sustainability ecosystem and strong commitment to clean energy. It didn’t take long for her to dive in. During her first year, she joined what was then the CESR Fellows Club, and ultimately helped rebrand and grow it into today’s Sustainable Business Club (SBC). Her leadership journey with SBC has been remarkable. Now serving as co-president, Carly has helped expand the club to more than 50 active members.

“For me, being involved is about surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to make a difference,” she shared. That philosophy is reflected in her involvement across campus—Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity (former Pledge Educator and VP of Community Service), Ralphie’s Closet (former President and Committee Founder), and Kappa Alpha Theta. Everywhere she goes, she looks for communities driven by purpose.

“Being part of the Scholars cohort connected me with people who are values-driven and excited to think bigger,” she said. “The networking alone has opened so many doors.”

How the Sustainability Scholars Program Helped Her Level Up

For Carly, the Sustainability Scholars Program has helped propel her forward to continue her impact-driven work. One of the biggest ways she’s grown is through the program’s stipend, which she used a portion of to attend Mountain Towns 2030, the largest mountain-community sustainability conference in the country located right here in Breckenridge, Colorado. The ability to fund that trip was transformative as it gave her firsthand exposure to Colorado’s clean-energy initiatives, connected her with leaders shaping the state’s sustainability landscape, and ultimately confirmed that this is the state where she wants to build her career.

But the impact didn’t stop there. The Sustainability Scholars community itself- students, alumni, and CESR partners- became a network that opened new doors. At CESR events, Carly connected with Evan Goodman, a former SBC executive member and SRE Certificate alum now working at KeHE. Their conversations, mentorship, and his willingness to help her navigate the application process directly supported her in landing her Business Analytics internship for this summer.

Through a combination of funded experiential learning and a values-driven professional community, the Sustainability Scholars Program has helped Carly accelerate her path, deepen her purpose, and step confidently into her next chapter.

A Project With Global Reach

Every Sustainability Scholar designs a project that reflects their personal commitment to positive impact- and Carly’s journey is a great example of how meaningful work can evolve. She initially planned a campus-based reusable cup and coffee-loyalty initiative modeled after the Moss Loyalty Program, but after running into challenges with vendor engagement, she realized a pivot was necessary.

That shift led her to one of the most meaningful collaborations of her college experience. Carly had previously taken the class Hacking the Apocalypse with Jane Zelikova, who oversees CU's Sustainability Research Initiatives and leads Sunflower Seeds For Ukraine, a humanitarian project supporting communities affected by war and ongoing energy insecurity. After hearing Jane talk about her initiative, Carly immediately knew she wanted CU students to be part of this work.

Her Sustainability Scholars project now partners directly with Sunflower Seeds For Ukraine. With support from CESR and her Scholar cohort, Carly is helping convert 40+ small solar panels into USB charging units that will be distributed across Ukraine to power essential devices. She is also organizing a campus-wide clothing drive to gather cold-weather essentials for families facing severe hardship.

This shift from a local campus initiative to an international humanitarian project highlights Carly’s adaptability, her values-driven mindset, and her willingness to act where help is urgently needed.

Carly’s Message to Future Scholars

Carly’s energy is contagious, and she leaves future students with one clear reminder:

“There’s no reason we shouldn’t all be looking at climate tech, renewable energy, or food-system sustainability. It’s our future in our hands.”

Whether you’re an aspiring Scholar or a student just starting to explore sustainability, Carly’s story is a reminder that you don’t need a sustainability major to make a sustainability impact- just curiosity, involvement, and a willingness to say yes to the opportunities that come your way.

Sustainability Scholars is currently recruiting for the 2026-2027 cohort. Learn more and apply by March 13, 2026 on our website.

Meet Carly, a 2025–2026 Sustainability Scholar at the Leeds School of Business and a student who’s steadily transforming passion into impact. The Sustainability Scholars Program has helped her take her passion for sustainable business even further. With the program’s stipend and the connections she’s made through its networking opportunities, Carly has been able to pursue projects that create meaningful change. One of her most powerful experiences has been working on the Sunflower Seeds for Ukraine initiative, where she is helping convert solar panels into phone chargers and providing warm clothing for Ukrainian communities. Read more about her!

Traditional

White

Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 19:58:02 +0000

Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 11/10/2025 - 12:58

Jane Majkiewicz

Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.

At the Sustainability Bootcamp on Nov. 7, hosted by the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility, keynote speaker Mark Kroese (pictured above), former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft, shared practical insights drawn from a career at the intersection of technology, leadership and environmental advocacy. Kroese spoke to a packed room of 180 Leeds students and guests. We are “at a unique point in history, with unprecedented tools to develop creative and innovative solutions to the world’s biggest problems." he believes. His talk blended actionable advice and optimism rooted in innovation.

Skills over process.
Complying with process is important, but igniting people with ideas and skills is how you go big, he said. As an avid mountain climber, Kroese drew a parallel to elite climber Alex Honnold—famous for his free solo ascents: “Does he follow process? No. Is he crazy skilled? Absolutely.” His takeaway: Invest in skills. They’re what drive bold, transformative action.

Federal climate subsidies are a must-have to meet sustainability goals.
There’s no way sustainability progress can happen without federal support, believes Kroese. “The might of the federal government is massive. It’s a really big hole when they pull out, and it’s a really big accelerant when they are in.”

Invigorating the blue-collar workforce.
Kroese voiced strong support for the blue-collar workforce. “I’ve long thought the trades are undervalued. Welders, electricians—these jobs are essential. Data centers aren’t building themselves.” Market forces will help reinvigorate interest in these careers.

Career strategy: passion or paycheck?
On the perennial question of following one's passion or pursuing financial stability, Kroese offered pragmatic advice: “Work your tail off in your 20s and 30s. Accumulate assets early. That gives you options later.”

Climate progress and political setbacks.
Asked how to fix climate change progress that has been undone by the current administration, Kroese said innovation gives him hope. “It is sad that there is a lot getting undone—it’s shocking, it’s demoralizing,” he admitted. “But market solutions with low-grade premiums will carry the day. If someone builds a cheap, carbon-free fusion reactor, it’ll take off—regardless of who’s in the White House.”

He urged students to keep innovating, even if policy support lags. “Some ideas may sit dormant for a few years. But our time will come. We have to innovate our way out of this problem.”

AI: bubble or breakthrough?
While not an AI expert, Kroese shared a candid view: “AI is an amazing tool—for both good and bad. I hope the good wins, and I hope we have some guardrails.” He emphasized the need for industry-led ethics and regulation, even if the path forward remains unclear.

I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values.

Mark Kroese, former general manager of sustainability solutions at Microsoft

“I can assure you that, in the long run, the thing that will set you apart is your personal brand of human traits and values. We are, after all, called human beings—not human doings,” Kroese emphasized.

The imperative to invest in AI skills is most associated with productivity and GDP growth, he explained. “Certainly, these are important things, but I want to encourage you to also invest in something far less measurable: your humanity.”

It is unique human characteristics—”the nonalgorithmic miracle that is your whole, human self”—that build integrity, trust, empathy and principles, he advised. “So go out into the workforce and be an AI-informed, but uniquely human, values-based leader.”

A Sustainability Focused Day

At the fall 2025 Sustainability Bootcamp, hosted by the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility, Trent Yang (pictured left)—��ý�� Climate Ventures team member and Leeds entrepreneur-in-residence—spoke to attendees about climate tech investing. Kyri Baker (center), CU ��ý�� assistant professor of civil systems and architectural engineering, addressed climate-related challenges posed by AI. Branding leader Brenda Tuohig (not pictured), explored the future of media and advertising in an AI-driven world. Following the plenary session, students (right) gathered into collaborative working groups.

Former Microsoft sustainability leader Mark Kroese shared practical insights on innovation, skills and market-driven solutions for climate progress at CESR’s Sustainability Bootcamp.

Off

Traditional

White

Student Spotlight: CESR Impact Intern Charlie Tell

Leo Kailus — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 19:53:18 +0000

Student Spotlight: CESR Impact Intern Charlie Tell Leo Kailus Wed, 11/05/2025 - 12:53

Charlie Tell with his summer internship managers at Greenhouse Scholars

This summer, CESR’s Impact Internships program supported Leeds student Charlie Tell to take an internship with a mission-driven nonprofit making real change. The program provides a $7,000 stipend to Leeds undergraduates who use their business skills at a registered 501c3 for the summer. Charlie, a senior studying Leadership and Management, interned this past summer at Greenhouse Scholars - an education-focused nonprofit supporting students from under-resourced backgrounds. Through the program, Charlie gained new insight into how nonprofits operate, how business skills translate into meaningful impact, and how his values continue to shape his journey.

Could you tell us about Greenhouse Scholars and what kind of work you did this past summer through the Impact Internship program?

“Greenhouse Scholars helps out in communities that are under-resourced or below the poverty line. They provide resources like educational development, scholarships for college, and workshops that help students with how to be a leader in the workplace. This summer, I worked with Greenhouse’s business practices, including a lot of work in Salesforce and Excel to try to automate a lot of the current systems, which needed work because of the nonprofit budget. By the end of the year, I got to work on the logistics of the Summer Symposium, which is the final, biggest gathering of the year for donors, scholars, and everyone to come to ��ý�� and learn more about what exactly the program does.”

What did you learn about working at a nonprofit organization, and how did the Impact Internship Program influence that experience?

“Probably the biggest takeaway from the whole experience was realizing how viable nonprofits can actually be. I always pictured nonprofits as tiny operations - someone working out of a closet with two employees and no money. But Greenhouse was a pretty big organization. They had around 30 full-time employees, all making solid wages, and they had steady funding from donors. It completely changed my perception of what a nonprofit can look like.

Also, the people working there were amazing - very impact-minded and genuinely passionate about what they were doing, which I really appreciated.”

What are some of the biggest challenges you think should be solved in the world right now, and how do you see business playing a role in the solution?

“I work during the school year in the education space for a company called Untapped in Broomfield. We train kids on executive functioning skills - planning, organization, and the things you need to succeed in school that usually aren't taught. Most of the students we work with are neurodiverse.

One thing I’ve noticed, especially with the rise of AI, is that the education system isn’t keeping up. AI is changing how students learn, and honestly, it feels like education needs a full rehaul to adapt to this shift.

In the U.S., most education is through public systems, so there’s not much room for business involvement within schools. But I think businesses can still play a big role outside traditional schooling - like what we do at Untapped. We’re not government-funded, but we still make an impact in the education sphere. I think there’s a lot of future potential for business solutions in education.”

Outside of academics and work, what personal experiences or influences have shaped the way you think about sustainability or education, and led you to pursue this opportunity?

“A big influence on who I am is the fact that both of my parents are psychologists. Growing up, I was taught to think deeply about my morals and the kind of person I want to be. That led me to study leadership and management at CU ��ý�� after moving from Ohio.

I’ve always been curious about people and what makes them who they are, which is why I gravitate toward education and leadership. Outside of school and work, I’m constantly surrounding myself with information about those topics. I think it’s helped me build empathy and think more about how I can make an impact in ways that go beyond just earning a paycheck.”

What advice do you have for current or incoming students?

“I’m a senior now, and when I started, I had the same picture everyone has about business school - land an internship at a big firm, get a return offer, and go down that corporate path.

But through my time with CESR and my internship last summer, I’ve learned that’s not the only route. There are so many other viable ways to build a career and find work that actually brings you joy - not just a paycheck.

So my advice is: don’t let the “typical” picture of success block you from finding a version of success that actually fits you.”

Charlie’s experience is a reminder that careers in business don’t have to follow a single path, and that meaningful work often sits at the intersection of purpose and practical skills. The Impact Internship program provides an unrivaled opportunity to make a real impact while eliminating the main roadblock in the nonprofit industry.

Applications are now open for students to express interest in the Impact Internship program for Summer 2026. Learn more.

This summer, CESR’s Impact Internships program supported Leeds student Charlie Tell to take an internship with a mission-driven nonprofit. Through the program, Charlie gained new insight into how nonprofits operate, how business skills translate into meaningful impact, and how his values continue to shape his journey.

Traditional

White

CESR’s Colorado by Bus Trek: Insights from Four Sustainability Students

Leo Kailus — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:38:47 +0000

CESR’s Colorado by Bus Trek: Insights from Four Sustainability Students Leo Kailus Fri, 10/17/2025 - 13:38

This fall, when students from the Leeds School of Business set out on the CESR Colorado by Bus Trek, they were journeying into the heart of our state’s sustainability movement. From Aspen to the Colorado River, this year’s trek brought together students eager to understand how climate change is shaping businesses, and how business can, in turn, shape our response to climate change.

We heard from four of those students (Elina Hjelmaker, Sam Siegal, Alex Radz, and Maren Clay) about what they learned, what inspired them most, and how the experience is shaping their outlook on sustainability and its connection with business.

What was your favorite part of the trip?

Elina:
“My favorite part of the trip was learning about Aspen One’s approach to sustainability. Their fully sustainable restaurant was especially inspiring, not only because it shows how environmental responsibility can be seamlessly woven into everyday experiences, but also because it sets a powerful example for other ski companies to follow in their footsteps.”

Sam:
“My favorite part of the trip was speaking with Pete McBride about the western water crises. I enjoyed how personal the presentation was. The photos McBride takes truly paint a descriptive picture of the water crises. McBride was also just a really cool person, and I loved hearing about his time with National Geographic and all the expeditions he has been on.

Maren:
“My favorite part of the trip was being able to talk with professionals in the sustainability industry and see what that really looks like in a business environment. In Leeds, I learn a lot about different techniques for increasing sustainability in a business, but seeing it in practice really opened my eyes to what businesses can achieve.”

What did you learn that really stuck with you?

Elina:
“On our EcoFlight tour over the Colorado River Valley, I witnessed firsthand how climate change is reshaping Colorado’s landscape. The severe drought and its impact on the surrounding land were striking, and I was also surprised by the sheer number of gas developments and plants scattered throughout the area.”

Sam:
“I learned the severity of the water crises and how the constrained water is already affecting communities. We spoke with a local farmer, and it was interesting to hear the politics behind who has the rights to the water on his own property. I also found it interesting to hear how the water crisis affects the ecosystem. Especially how though we had a strong snowfall last year in the valley, the amount of water that made it to the river was much less. Depicting the plants sucking more water than average because of the previous droughts.”

Alex:
“I never realized just how important the Colorado River is for so many people across the U.S. and how badly it’s been managed as the country has grown. In some places, the river has even run completely dry in some areas, leaving communities without water and devastating ecosystems.”

Maren:
“Something that I learned on this trip that really stuck with me is that in order to make businesses become more sustainable, you have to work on finding root issues and solving them. Sustainability isn't just replacing lightbulbs to save electricity; it's getting involved in local political environments, and advocating for making communities as a whole more sustainable. Without legislation, sustainability will not be able to be fully actualized.”

You learned about how climate is impacting businesses but also about business opportunities that can make a difference - what are you most excited about and why?

Elina:
“There are many opportunities for businesses to make a difference with sustainable practices. One example of this is how Holy Cross Energy is transforming the way communities access power by investing in renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Their goal of reaching 100% clean energy by 2030 shows how a company can lead with ambition while also inspiring other businesses to adopt similar commitments. I’m most excited about opportunities like this because they prove that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet, it can also drive innovation, build trust with communities, and set a new standard for the future of business.”

Sam:
“Some of the biggest opportunities I found was how creating a reliable, clean and constant energy source could make one of the biggest impacts. If we are able to harness all the energy that happens naturally, we can desalinize water (solving some of the water crises), energy cost would be minimal (allowing everyone access to energy), and would stop the current oil and gas production (solving the warming climate).”

Alex:
“I think many businesses are beginning to realize that they do not have to sacrifice profit to make a positive impact. Oftentimes, making business decisions with the environment in mind can lead to future savings.”

Presumably, you care about this issue and/or see the opportunities. Where do you want to put your efforts? How do you want to use your power and your talents to make an impact?

Elina:
“In my future career, I want to approach sustainability in the same innovative ways as many of the companies we visited on this trek. There are countless opportunities to create positive change, and I believe staying optimistic is key to driving progress. I also hope to use my skills to educate others on the importance of sustainable practices, helping to spread awareness and inspire action that extends beyond my own work.”

Alex:
“I just want more people to realize that protecting the environment isn’t only about being socially responsible, it’s also a smart business move. Once people see that connection, there’s more potential for innovation, investment, and real change. I want to use my voice and platform to help more people understand this.”

Maren:
“Currently, I see that my "lever" is volunteer work. Time and energy are valuable things, and if I am able to donate my time and energy to organizations, small or large, that are working to make the business world more sustainable and profitable, I will be helping contribute to that cause. Additionally, it communicates to others around me that the sustainability cause is one worth investing time (and money) to, and will encourage others to volunteer their time to causes they feel passionately about.”

Why this trip matters:

The CESR Bus Trek is more than just a trip; it’s an outdoor classroom where students embrace ethical leadership while learning about environmental impact and business innovation. Students witnessed how sustainability challenges and business opportunities intersect across Colorado’s landscapes, from flying over drought-ridden valleys to dining with conservationists and entrepreneurs.

As Elina, Sam, Alex, and Maren show, these experiences spark action, optimism, and leadership. CESR’s Colorado by Bus Trek reminds us that the business leaders of the future will be tackling more than spreadsheets and numbers, but will focus on ideas of impact, such as leadership, sustainability, and innovation.

Traditional

White

Wes Obmascik: A global perspective leads to a great internship

Sarah Arney — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 19:54:32 +0000

Wes Obmascik: A global perspective leads to a great internship Sarah Arney Thu, 09/25/2025 - 13:54

Through CESR’s Sustainability Scholars Program, Wes Obmascik (Fin’26, SRE) discovered how sustainability could shape both his studies and his career. “I originally worked at a renewable energy developer during my sophomore year,” he shared. “I found out about sustainability through CESR and through their ethics class. Then I attended a climate finance workshop - it was awesome because it combined both finance and sustainability, which I didn’t realize you could combine.”

That experience led Wes to take his research with him on his study abroad in Europe, exploring how the region approaches sustainability. “I think they are ahead culturally - small things like bag taxes meant the majority of people were already bringing their own bags,” he explained. “It gave me a global mindset.”

This global perspective ultimately helped him land a role at Lightsource BP in power markets. “They told me they wanted someone who wasn’t just a finance kid who worked in energy. They wanted someone who was committed to sustainability,” Wes said. His advice for students considering a similar pathway or program? “If you’re passionate about protecting the earth or social responsibility, there’s now a whole industry around sustainability. You can have a very successful career while also contributing to something bigger.”

Read more about Wes' Sustainability Scholars experience in this inaugural cohort interview.

Traditional

White

Shaping the Energy Transition: Lessons from a CU ��ý�� Alum

Leo Kailus — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 18:28:14 +0000

Shaping the Energy Transition: Lessons from a CU ��ý�� Alum Leo Kailus Tue, 09/09/2025 - 12:28

“Your next step is not your last step.”

That’s one of many reflections from Dave Smith (MBA '19), a graduate of CU ��ý��’s Sustainable Entrepreneurship MBA program and now a key player at Schneider Electric’s renewable energy advisory practice. In a recent conversation with CESR, Dave shared insights from his journey through the world of sustainable business, the role CU played in launching his career, and the critical challenges he’s working to solve today.

Starting Off

For Dave, Leeds was more than a business school; it was the launchpad for a mission-driven career. "What was really cool was understanding how the power of business and private enterprise can be used to solve so many social and environmental problems,” Dave recalled. “The networking opportunities were very strong.”

It was through one of those connections, a coffee chat sparked by Leeds career services, that Dave eventually landed his “dream job” at Schneider Electric. A year after graduating, that seed blossomed into a full-time role helping major corporations shift toward renewable energy.

Powering the Private Sector

Today, Dave works in business development for Schneider Electric’s global sustainability consulting team, helping companies develop and implement clean energy strategies across the world.

“We help businesses understand the financial opportunity,” Dave explained. “Cost savings, risk mitigation, access to capital - these are some of the value streams that come from adopting renewable energy in addition to ESG benefits.”

His work includes everything from helping a large apparel company achieve 100% renewable electricity usage across 45 counties to designing supplier-facing initiatives like Target Forward Renew — a program that supports decarbonization across Target’s global supply chain.

Navigating a Volatile Market

Despite recent political shifts and policy uncertainty in the US, Dave remains optimistic and busy. “We’re in a tremendously volatile time politically, which impacts energy and clean energy,” he said. “But that volatility also creates opportunity. In periods of market disruption there are winners and losers. Companies have a time sensitive opportunity to proactively engage in US wind and solar projects before tax credits expire and capitalize on strong risk-adjusted returns.”

Dave emphasized the growing importance of aligning business strategy with environmental and social responsibility. “Companies that excel at sustainability, both environmental and social, will achieve a competitive advantage over their peers, which will become increasingly evident as time goes on.”

Sustainability from Any Seat

Even in roles not traditionally labeled as “sustainable,” Dave believes every job can contribute to a greener world. “If you're in finance, you're looking for low-risk cash flows. Sustainability can help you get there. If you're in marketing, it helps with brand value. There are always connections and cross functional value.”

His advice to students: Embrace it. “Lean into your passion,” he said. “Even if you’re not in your dream job right away, every step you take can build toward it.”

That mindset led Dave to leave a corporate role at Amazon and start cold-calling solar companies looking for opportunities, a leap that eventually funded his degree and launched a career rooted in impact.

Looking Ahead

As a new father, Dave says his work feels more urgent and personal than ever. “It’s not just environmental - it’s social, too. Climate justice, access to clean energy - that’s embedded in everything we’re doing.”

Whether helping global brands navigate energy procurement or encouraging the next generation of business leaders to stay committed to their values, Dave embodies the CESR mission: building a more sustainable, just, and prosperous future through business.

Traditional

White

Career Paths: Finding Rewards in the Peace Corps

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 17:21:06 +0000

Career Paths: Finding Rewards in the Peace Corps Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 08/25/2025 - 11:21

Jane Majkiewicz

In 2025, CU ��ý�� ranked second nationally for Peace Corps volunteers. Among them are Leeds graduates who are turning global service into a launchpad for meaningful careers.

One of Ben Dant's roles in Paraguay was teaching entrepreneurship to high school students.

Kathryn Wendell, executive director of the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility (CESR), believes Leeds students are especially well-prepared for Peace Corps roles. “Any student coming from Leeds has great hard skills and collaborative teamwork experience that they can apply,” she said.

Wendell speaks from experience. She served in Ecuador, helping women entrepreneurs access microloans and business training. While her degrees in cultural anthropology and Spanish were valuable, she had to learn business skills on the job. That's not the case for Leeds students, she noted.

“Leeds students come in with relevant skills already developed. Whether it’s finance, strategy, marketing or operations, these are all transferable to local community members aspiring to strengthen their businesses and access new economic opportunities.”

From ��ý�� to Paraguay: Ben Dant’s journey

Ben Dant (Mgmt’17) was inspired by a great uncle who served in the Peace Corps, seeing the opportunity as a way to combine his interests in service, sustainability and global learning.

When Dant applied after several years of work in the music business post-graduation, he noted that he was willing to be stationed anywhere. He was initially assigned to Colombia in 2020—plans that were derailed by COVID-19. That didn’t deter him from keeping his application active, ultimately landing him in Paraguay in 2023.

“I’ve always been interested in the service angle and sustainability, and I have a real passion for learning about the world,” he said.

Dant has worked in economic development, co-teaching entrepreneurship and business planning to high school students. In Paraguay, students choose majors in high school in the same way college students do in the U.S. His school focused on technology, offering marketing, accounting and business administration topics.

Kathryn Wendell, executive director of CESR

“We helped students create business plans, in addition to forming savings groups to fund real projects. The goal was to work with government agencies to build a culture of localized entrepreneurship and financial literacy."

Outside the classroom, Dant found a deep, special connection with the community. “Paraguayans are so inviting. I was a stranger who showed up, and I got to know everyone in town over two years”—something that would be rare in the U.S., he believes.

He credits the Peace Corps with helping him build resilience and integrity. On a LinkedIn post, Dant applauded a Peace Corps friend who noted: "You show up because you gave your word,” and “You do the hard things, even when no one is watching."

“Those are two things that I could never had said better myself about how Peace Corps service has taught me about integrity and doing the work to reach the bigger goal,” said Dant. He has found the experience so rewarding that he’s serving for another year in Paraguay, working as an extension volunteer for an NGO.

Empowering youth in Thailand: Kiera Hurley’s impact

Kiera Hurley with her tourism group at a local temple.

Kiera Hurley (Mktg’23), who earned certificates in Social Responsibility and Ethics and Global Business, is serving in Thailand in the Youth in Development sector. Her decision to join the Peace Corps was driven by a desire to make a difference and immerse herself in a new culture.

“The Peace Corps has a strong legacy of developing impactful leaders across diverse fields, and I aspire to be one of them,” she said. Leeds helped propel that mindset.

“Leeds is a community full of adventurous, good-spirited and forward-thinking students, professors and staff,” she said. “My professors shared a wealth of experience and wisdom while giving us the space to form our own opinions and values. CESR curated an environment where all students felt drawn to sustainability, not just as a concept, but as a way of living.”

Hurley’s work focuses on building leadership, confidence and global awareness among youth. She teaches in classrooms, runs an afterschool volleyball club, and led a Self-Love English Camp. One of her proudest achievements is creating a world map mural that will live on in the school, opening students’ minds to international cultures and traditions.

Her most memorable project to date was launching a tourism club at a local school. The club taught public speaking, video creation and sustainable tourism, culminating in student-led video tours of a local temple. “This project was a win for everyone involved. The temple has since asked the students to continue serving as tour guides and continue promoting its cultural significance.”

"CESR curated an environment where all students felt drawn to sustainability, not just as a concept, but as a way of living.”

Kiera Hurley (Mktg’23)

Hurley also serves as multimedia director for  Sticky Rice, an online magazine that shares stories from Peace Corps volunteers in Thailand. She also regularly posts dispatches on her personal blog. “I want people back home to see the kind, generous spirit of the Thai people and the deep sense of community I feel here.”

Business skills in action

Both Dant and Hurley emphasized how their Leeds education prepared them for Peace Corps service. Hurley applied her SRE certificate experience directly to her work in Thailand.

“As a student consultant, I learned problem-solving, creative thinking and how to focus on long-term impact,” she said. Early in her service, she conducted a SWOT analysis with local leaders to identify community strengths and challenges.

Dant echoed the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking. “It’s a sink-or-swim environment. You learn how to adapt, persist and work across cultures."

For Wendell (pictured right), Peace Corps service is more than a personal journey—it’s a professional springboard. “It helped me get my job at the World Bank and later at Chevron working on corporate responsibility,” she said. “Companies value people who’ve worked abroad, who can navigate diverse teams and lead with integrity.”

As an example, she pointed to Noel Kinder, who spoke at Leeds in 2023, mentioning that his Peace Corps work in Honduras shaped his career, leading him to the chief sustainability officer role at Nike (he is now the vice president of sustainability at Lululemon).

Hurley hopes to continue working at the intersection of values-driven business and humanitarian work. “I’m drawn to roles that advocate for ESG change, ethical supply chains and environmental education,” she said. “I want to empower girls and women in meaningful ways.”

Dant is keeping an open mind about specific roles, but he knows whatever he does, he wants it to be purpose-driven. “I’d love to continue working internationally, whether through nonprofits, sustainable businesses or NGOs,” he said.

A path worth considering

Would they recommend the Peace Corps to others? Absolutely.

“It builds skills you wouldn’t be pushed to develop otherwise,” said Dant. “If you have any interest in international work, I’m not sure there’s a better way to learn.”

Hurley would agree. “It’s easy to follow the roadmap we’ve been given and go straight from college into a job, but this experience will open your mind and heart. It’s extremely challenging in many different ways. Peace Corps volunteers learn a new language, adapt to a new culture and are away from friends and family. But as we all know, growth often comes from discomfort,” she said.

Wendell, Dant and Hurley all agreed: overcoming obstacles and navigating setbacks is an essential part of the experience. Wendell summed it up: “The Peace Corps made me a much more appreciative and resilient individual."

Whether teaching entrepreneurship in Paraguay or uplifting youth in Thailand, Leeds’ Peace Corps volunteers are applying their business skills to empower communities and redefine what it means to lead with purpose.

Off

Traditional

White

David Drake joins CESR as new Faculty Director

Sarah Arney — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 18:05:05 +0000

David Drake joins CESR as new Faculty Director Sarah Arney Thu, 08/21/2025 - 12:05

CESR is excited to welcome David Drake as our new faculty director. A 2025 recipient of CESR's Impact Award for Graduate Teaching and a 2023 recipient of Leeds' prestigious Frascona Teaching Excellence Award, David exemplifies CESR's values of ethics, sustainability, and impact-driven leadership.

Read more about David's award-winning contributions...

The 2025 recipient of CESR's Impact Award for Graduate Teaching will become CESR's new faculty director.

Traditional

White

Welcoming the Daniels Fund ethical leadership programming to CESR

Sarah Arney — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 17:51:19 +0000

Welcoming the Daniels Fund ethical leadership programming to CESR Sarah Arney Fri, 06/13/2025 - 11:51

CESR is thrilled to welcome the programming formerly associated with the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative Collegiate Program at Leeds starting this Fall.

The Daniels Fund events promoted principles-based ethical decision-making focused on integrity, accountability, transparency, fairness, trust, respect, rule of law, and viability. Now under the CESR umbrella, this programming will strengthen CESR’s ability to deliver on our strategic pillar of ethical leadership, bringing events like the Business Ethics Case Competition and March Debate Madness to even more Leeds students.

Learn more...

Now under the CESR umbrella, the programming formerly associated with the Daniel Fund Ethical Leadership Initiative will strengthen CESR’s ability to deliver on our commitment to ethical leadership, bringing events like the Business Ethics Case Competition and March Debate Madness to even more Leeds students.

Traditional

White

CESR Impact Stories

��ý�� Climate Ventures Connects Leeds MBA Students to Climate Tech Innovation

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on venture work, students are discovering the business opportunities in climate solutions.

Fostering connections to power impact

Deepening MBA skills through real-world experiences

Empowering climate founders

Related Articles

Meet Carly Simmons: Turning Curiosity Into Impact as a Sustainability Scholar

How the Sustainability Scholars Program Helped Her Level Up

A Project With Global Reach

Carly’s Message to Future Scholars

Related Articles

Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability

A Sustainability Focused Day

Off

Student Spotlight: CESR Impact Intern Charlie Tell

Related Articles

CESR’s Colorado by Bus Trek: Insights from Four Sustainability Students

Related Articles

Wes Obmascik: A global perspective leads to a great internship

Related Articles

Shaping the Energy Transition: Lessons from a CU ��ý�� Alum

Related Articles

Career Paths: Finding Rewards in the Peace Corps

From ��ý�� to Paraguay: Ben Dant’s journey

Empowering youth in Thailand: Kiera Hurley’s impact

Business skills in action

A path worth considering

Off

David Drake joins CESR as new Faculty Director

Related Articles

Welcoming the Daniels Fund ethical leadership programming to CESR

Related Articles

CESR Impact Stories

������ý���� Climate Ventures Connects Leeds MBA Students to Climate Tech Innovation

Through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on venture work, students are discovering the business opportunities in climate solutions.

Fostering connections to power impact

Deepening MBA skills through real-world experiences

Empowering climate founders

Related Articles

Meet Carly Simmons: Turning Curiosity Into Impact as a Sustainability Scholar

How the Sustainability Scholars Program Helped Her Level Up

A Project With Global Reach

Carly’s Message to Future Scholars

Related Articles

Mark Kroese on Climbing Toward Sustainability

A Sustainability Focused Day

Off

Student Spotlight: CESR Impact Intern Charlie Tell

Related Articles

CESR’s Colorado by Bus Trek: Insights from Four Sustainability Students

Related Articles

Wes Obmascik: A global perspective leads to a great internship

Related Articles

Shaping the Energy Transition: Lessons from a CU ������ý���� Alum

Related Articles

Career Paths: Finding Rewards in the Peace Corps

From ������ý���� to Paraguay: Ben Dant’s journey

Empowering youth in Thailand: Kiera Hurley’s impact

Business skills in action

A path worth considering

Off

David Drake joins CESR as new Faculty Director

Related Articles

Welcoming the Daniels Fund ethical leadership programming to CESR

Related Articles

��ý�� Climate Ventures Connects Leeds MBA Students to Climate Tech Innovation

Shaping the Energy Transition: Lessons from a CU ��ý�� Alum

From ��ý�� to Paraguay: Ben Dant’s journey