Born and raised in Hanover Park, Illinois, Alex Sanchez embarked on his college career in 2019 at the College of DuPage. Initially uncertain about his path, he dreamt of a career in healthcare to help others on a larger scale. Reflecting on his roots and his parents’ sacrifices as immigrants from Mexico, Sanchez felt a… Read more »
Alumni Story
Charting the green path: Kiryssa Kasprzyk’s journey from O’Neill to global leadership in climate policy and conservation
In a Zoom call, I had the pleasure of interviewing O’Neill alum Kiryssa Kasprzyk amidst a backdrop of lush tropical plants. I immediately resonated with her dedication to preserving tropical forests, seamlessly integrated into her urban life in D.C. On that brisk winter afternoon, the panoramic view of greenery, extending from floor to ceiling inside… Read more »
From Kathmandu to Everest: O’Neill School alumnus sheds light on Nepal’s environmental progress
Written by: Glenn Montgomery, MSES’77, entrepreneur In October 2023, Glenn Montgomery, MSES’77, and his fiancé, Marie, were married high in the majestic Himalayas along the world’s foremost trekking destination—Mt. Everest. O’Neill Dean Siân Mooney’s asked Montgomery to provide a few cultural and environmental observations of their trip among the Earth’s loftiest peaks. The borders of… Read more »
The true calling of Black History Month and Women’s History Month
Written by: Jori Mundy, MPA’15 This time of year is always special for me because it provides the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the groundbreaking achievements, undeniable resilience, and uncompromising fortitude of my ancestors and the instrumental individuals who created the many avenues of revolution we experience today. Their stories remind us that our call… Read more »
Aligning Passion with Education: Brandon Hough’s Inspiring Success Story
In the realm of conservation and environmental leadership, Brandon Hough, MPA’23, stands as a passionate advocate for biodiversity, driven by a commitment to leave the world in a better state for future generations. As the executive director of Homegrown National Park, Hough’s journey from a military background to his current role is an inspiring testament… Read more »
Experiencing the World as Your Classroom: Julie Frieder, MPA-MSES’93, on the benefits of a Wonder Year
Julie Frieder is an innovator, problem solver, and sustainability professional with a double master’s degree in public affairs and environmental science from the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. She stepped away from a career in sustainable and responsible investing to travel with her family for 13 months in a 24-foot RV… Read more »
Matthew Creek, BSAM’19, to join prestigious orchestra management program
Matthew Creek, BSAM’19, loves his work with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO)—which is why he decided to take a short break. An intermission, if you will. In New York City. This summer, Creek will join the Essentials of Orchestra Management program offered by the League of American Orchestras. This highly competitive leadership program is viewed… Read more »
Freeman graduates, taking leadership lessons from IU to DC
“Some of the things you learn in the classroom at O’Neill are theoretical concepts. But it’s so much cooler when you’re able to apply it to actually advance your own personal passions and goals,” said Ky Freeman, former IU student body president. “The O’Neill School equips you with the foundational tools to be active changemakers… Read more »
Ami Tully Lotka, BSPA’82: “Finance is about more than just money: it’s about making a difference.”
In this interview, 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award honoree Ami Tully Lotka, BSPA’82, shares advice for O’Neill students and alumni considering careers in the financial services industry — and encourages them to view finance as a helping profession. A lot of people dream about starting their own company. What would you say are keys to starting… Read more »