Faculty Spotlights

Ethan Banegas, a descendant of the Kumeyaay, Luiseño-Payómkawichum, and Cupeño- Kuupangaxwichem bands of Native Americans, grew up on the Barona Reservation in San Diego County. He currently works as a Professor at San Diego State University teaching multiple courses on American Indian Studies along with serving as the co-owner of Kumeyaay.com and Historian for the San Diego History Center. Recently the Office of Energy and Sustainability met with Banegas to discuss sustainability from a Native perspective.

Erlinde Cornelis is an Associate Professor at the Fowler College of Business Marketing Department. Although she is a Professor of Marketing, she also has a profound passion for sustainability, and she implements it into all aspects of her life- including her classes. Professor Cornelis serves as the head of the Senate Sustainability Committee at SDSU where she assists in planning and advocating for sustainability on campus.

Leading the Office of Energy & Sustainability at San Diego State to achieve sustainability goals across campus

Madeleine Falco works as the sustainability analyst for the Office of Energy & Sustainability. Her background in marketing, education, and outreach has given her the skills to implement energy conservation and public outreach programs at MiraCosta College, in addition to working with local tribes in San Diego County to develop renewable energy on tribal lands. Now, Madeleine is using her expertise to help SDSU meet its sustainability goals and inspire students, faculty, and staff to reduce waste, use public transportation, and live more sustainably. Read more here.

Professor Monteverde teaches geography and sustainability classes at San Diego State University. Her passion for people, the environment, and helping students shines through in this spotlight where we discuss Professor Monteverde’s love for sustainability, work in storm water, experience teaching, and advice for students. Read more here.

Sharon Cunningham is the senior supervising custodian who is incorporating sustainability in essential services on campus.

Kotaro Nakamura is a professor and former director of the School of Art and Design. He dives into the indigenous way of living comfortably using the least amount of resources.

From doing research in Hawaii and American Samoa to teaching various classes on campus, Dr. Levine has a lot to share with us. Learn more about what she has found through her work and how to get involved with research!

Debbie Richeson has been the director of Parking and Transportation Services for 13 years and has worked at SDSU in various transportation-related positions for 21 years. She knows plenty when it comes to how students, faculty, and staff get to and around campus. We had a conversation with this transportation expert to learn more about the Red and Black Shuttle, Lyft plans, new parking options, and upcoming plans for SDSU.

Dining division has shown leadership in College and University Food service sustainability. The initiative is led by Duane Buske, SDSU Dining Senior General Manager of Purchasing and Distribution.