STUDENT INTERNS

MCSI’s work would not be possible without the passion and on-the-ground support of its interns.

Grace Fanning is a recent Pitt graduate with a B.A. in Environmental Studies and Urban Studies. They have worked with MCSI on multiple projects over the past year, including a SharePoint site for faculty to exchange curricular materials to help incorporate sustainability in every aspect of academia. They have also assisted in the creation of a contact list for MCSI faculty. Grace plans to work in the sustainability field.

Elaina Geiger is a recent Pitt graduate with a B.S. in Environmental Engineering. She worked with MCSI creating social graphics across multiple platforms. Elaina also planned programs for students to educate first year students on Pitt’s strategies to incorporate sustainability in academics, research, and student clubs. Elaina is attending University of Pennsylvania this Fall to pursue a Master's in City Planning with a concentration in Environmental Planning and Land Use.

Jess Gondak is a rising Pitt senior pursuing a B.S. in Chemistry with a concentration in Materials Science. She manages MCSI website edits and updates. Jess also composes the quarterly Pitt Sustainability alumni newsletter, which features University-wide sustainability efforts, including alumni spotlights and MCSI news Jess will graduate in 2024 and plans to pursue a PhD in chemical engineering.

Emily Hoag is a rising Pitt senior at Pitt Pursing A Geology degree with a minor in Environmental Engineering. She organizes volunteering events at Oasis Farm and Fishery for Pitt student organizations. She also helps to plan and organize ScholarCHEF events. Emily is involved in the Pitt Hydroponics student group, which has close connections with MCSI. She is currently interning with Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in the Bureau of Forestry. Emily hopes to continue her career at PA DCNR and promote sustainable practices.

Sophia Lex is a current Pitt student pursuing a B.S. in Environmental Engineering Over the past year, Sophia worked with MCSI to engage students outside of the typical sustainability-adjacent degrees, including via ScholarCHEF. She set up informational programs for student organizations interested in sustainability and created new student engagement channels including social media Sophia also helps plan and market new ScholarCHEF events, including the Spring Food Fair.