This degree provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge of three aspects of environmental and sustainability studies: people, prosperity, and planet.
The annual Distinguished Alumni Reception recognizes the accomplishments of an exemplary alum from each of the academic programs in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Those honored are nominated by department chairs, faculty and staff, based on criteria that includes professional accomplishments, awards, philanthropy, service and contributions to the college and university community. In Fall 2017, the school of integrative studies honored Ali Culhane.
Ali Culhane graduated from Mason in 2014 with a B.A. in environmental and sustainability studies. As a student, she conducted a service learning project with Fairfax County Public Schools' Get2Green program, documenting the environmental education initiatives underway in the district's schools. She now works as Get2Green's Environmental Stewardship Program Specialist. In this role, she serves as an in-house consultant for schools implementing environmental stewardship projects, collaborates with stakeholders to enhance resources and support, and continues to document the school district’s green initiatives.
She stays connected to the Mason community by matching current students who seek service learning opportunities and internships with local schools that aspire to go green. Through her work with the nonprofit NoVA Outside, she works with Mason faculty and students on the annual School Environmental Action Showcase, which hosts hundreds of local students for a day of environmental education, networking, and fun each spring at the Center for the Arts. In June 2017, Fairfax County schools presented Ali with an Outstanding Employee Award in recognition of her service to the community and in appreciation of the national acclaim that her contributions have brought to the Get2Green program.