David Allgood
Director, California League of Conservation Voters

In addition to supervising the California League of Conservation Voters Los Angeles office, David Allgood directs CLCV's political operations in the southern two-thirds of the state. He also directs the Urban Affairs Project and the New Voter Organizing Project for the CLCV Education Fund. Allgood is President of the Board of the Coalition for Clean Air, immediate past President of the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters, and a member of the Board of Directors of SalPAC, the Salvadoran-American political action committee.

Sean Arian
Director of Economic Development Strategy, Mayor’s Office of Housing & Economic Development, City of Los Angeles

As Director of Economic Development Strategy, Sean Arian is responsible for guiding the Mayor’s economic development strategy focusing on key sectors of the Los Angeles economy, including cleantech. Arian also acts as advisor on economic development policy and strategy to Deputy Mayor Helmi Hisserich. He joined the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Economic Development Policy in 2007. A native of Los Angeles, Arian earned his J.D. from Columbia University School of Law, and a bachelor of arts from the University of California at Berkeley. In 2002, Sean served as a Fulbright scholar in Latin America, and in 1995, he served as a Japan Foundation fellow in Yokohama, Japan. He is a member of the California Bar.

Ruben Aronin
Communications Director, Global Green USA

Ruben Aronin is responsible for overseeing the strategic messaging initiatives for Global Green and implements all of its media campaigns. Previously, Aronin served as the Executive Director of the Earth Communications Office, an international non-profit organization based in the Hollywood community. Aronin has over a decade of experience in the environmental field and in non-profit management.

Aronin currently serves on the national steering committee of the Apollo Alliance, the Board of ECO India and Advocacy Arts, and the Advisory Boards of LOHAS and Ciceana. Prior to his environmental work, Aronin worked for President Clinton's Inaugural celebration and for Congressman Christopher Shays.

Doug Avery
Project Manager, Southern California Edison, Design and Engineering Group

Doug Avery has dedicated his entire career to developing energy efficient lighting solutions for utility customers.  He is responsible for the Lighting and Refrigeration and Thermal Test laboratories where he conducts "proof of concept” studies on emerging lighting technologies and controls.  Avery has over 30 years of experience teaching classes on new energy efficient lighting technology to managing design installations.  Before joining Southern California Edison, Doug managed business partners for the Department of Energy’s Rebuild America Program.  

John Babcock
Partner, Rustic Canyon Partners

John Babcock has been a partner at Rustic Canyon Partners since the firm's formation in 1999.  He brings over 15 years of technology industry experience to both the firm and their portfolio companies.  Babcock focuses on investment opportunities in clean technology, technology-enabled services, outsourcing and advanced construction materials. 

Babcock received his B.A. from Duke University and his M.B.A. from the Anderson School at UCLA.

Brian F. Barry
Director of Development, Infinite Platinum Group, Inc.

As Director of Development, Brian Barry manages all levels of temporary, temp to hire & direct hire business development for Southern California.  He has over 20 years of diversified experience in business development, P/L, brand marketing, and executive career management. He has been recognized for transitioning organizations from technology-centered to business/customer-centered cultures, and forging strong multi-cultural relationships through customer service innovation and the integration of cross-functional teams.

Barry received his Bachelor’s degree in Applied Biology and Biophysics from Ferris State University and his Master’s degree ABT in Health Administration and Exercise Science from Central Michigan University.

Ed Begley, Jr.
Actor/Activist

When it comes to taking personal responsibility for the environment, few individuals can match the record of actor and activist Ed Begley, Jr. Known for turning up at Hollywood events on his bicycle, he has served as chairman of the Environmental Media Association and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.  He serves on the boards of organizations including the Thoreau Institute, the Earth Communications Office, Tree People and Friends of the Earth.  His work has earned awards from numerous environmental groups including the California League of Conservation Voters, the Natural Resources Defense Council, the Coalition for Clean Air, Heal the Bay, the Santa Monica Baykeeper and the Southern California Gas Company.  Currently, he is the co-star of the hit HGTV series Living with Ed, a look at the day-to-day realities of “living green” with his not so environmentalist wife Rachelle Carson.  The series has currently just finished airing its 2nd season.

Paul Bernadou
West Region Branch Manager, AIReS Relocation Solutions

Paul Bernadou’s company AIReS took on the “green” initiative as the first relocation company to receive the International Standards Organization, ISO 14001 “Green” certification.  AIReS recognizes the need for a business focus broader than profit and is committed to the global responsibility of preserving and protecting the environment.

Bernadou is on the board of directors for the National Human Resources Association’s LA chapter as well as the Rocky Mountain Relocation Council and a member of the Employee Relocation Council.

Kevin Blake
Regional Sales Manager, Akeena Solar
Kevin Blake brings over twenty five years of experience developing, marketing and selling products and service solutions in both consumer and commercial markets. He began his career with a start-up solar thermal business in the Midwest during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s, growing it from 12 employees to over 200. Prior to joining Akeena Solar, Blake served as a Regional Sales Manager and Vice President of Sales at Quebecor World Inc. and Graphic Press Inc. managing sales in the Midwest and Eastern United States. More recently, he's been using his passion for solar to help residents and business become more energy independent through the use of the advanced Solar PV System, Andalay. He regularly participates in sustainable business networking events and volunteers his time to promote Solar PV awareness.

Claire Bowin
AICP, Department of Planning, City of Los Angeles
A graduate of the University of Virginia’s School of Architecture, Claire Bowin has been actively involved in various aspects of design and community development over the tenure of her career. Bowin joined the Los Angeles Department of City Planning almost two years ago where she has been coordinating the development of the Los Angeles River Improvement Overlay District, the Cornfields/Arroyo Seco Specific Plan and LEED-ND Pilot Project as well as the City’s proposed Green Building Program. Prior to joining the City, Bowin was the Director of Development at Livable Places, Inc. where she developed Olive Court, a 58 unit affordable “green” transit oriented homeownership community in Long Beach, CA. Bowin’s background experience includes two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Dominican Republic and 15 years as a production designer and set decorator in the Motion Picture Industry in addition to her contributions to the fields of planning, sustainable construction and community development.

April Capil
Director, Fridge Box, Inc.

During graduate school, April Capil developed financial models for an Eco-Villa rental property, a CSA for a master-planned community, and an organic mobile restaurant chain. Her latest project, “Fridge Box,” a recyclable, compostable, completely non-toxic children’s playhouse, launched in January ’08 at www.FridgeBoxWorld.com and select Bay Area retailers.

In addition to being the Director of Fridge Box, Inc., Capil works with the Ma’at Youth Academy in Richmond, CA developing environmental engagement programs for at-risk youth. She splits her time between the San Francisco Bay Area and Kalaheo, Kaua’i, and spends most of her paycheck on carbon offsets.

Tim Carmichael
Senior Director of Policy, Coalition for Clean Air

The Coalition for Clean Air is an environmental advocacy organization dedicated to reducing air pollution in California.  The Coalition has offices in Los Angeles, Fresno, and Sacramento.  Tim Carmichael has worked for the Coalition since 1995 and served as President/CEO for over 8 years.  Carmichael has a wide range of environmental and transportation policy experience including: freight transportation, clean alternative fuels and technologies, renewable energy, and the Clean Air Act. From 1992-1995, he worked for an environmental consulting firm, educating the public on a variety of environmental issues including recycling, water pollution, advanced transportation systems and air pollution reduction strategies.

Wen-I Chang,
Founder, President and CEO, Atman Hospitality Group

As a new age thinker who immigrated from Taiwan, Wen-I Chang grew up in an environment that would nurture his union with nature.  He pursued employment in the area hotel sustainability, and was involved with the first LEED Gold project in the United States -- the GAIA Napa Valley Hotel & Spa.  Chang is interested in transforming  people’s consciousness through hotel development and operation.  Through his creative writing and translation, Chang has published several books.  He has also been involved in green programs on CNET TV and The Discovery Channel.

Brett Conrad
Managing Partner, Longboard Capital Advisors, LLC

Longboard Capital Advisors’ worthy cause is to accelerate the commercialization of clean energy technologies around the globe thereby creating energy independence and reducing greenhouse gases.

Brett Conrad received his BS from the Colorado School of Mines in Petroleum Engineering and an MBA from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

John Glen DiGuiseppe
President and CEO, Investors Hospitality Management

John Glen DiGuiseppe owns or manages various Vantage, Best Western and Wyndham Hotels within the American Southwest.  DiGuiseppe is a voting member of Best Western International and Vantage Hospitality.  Industry memberships include Smith Travel Research, Green Hotels, Inc., AAA, AARP and varied southwest convention and visitor bureaus and chambers of commerce.

DiGuiseppe holds a Juris Doctor from Abraham Lincoln University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from California State University, Northridge.

Catherine Dunwoody
Executive Director, California Fuel Cell Partnership

Catherine Dunwoody is the Executive Director of the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CaFCP). She was closely involved with the formation of the CaFCP in 1998, and has played a lead role throughout its history. Dunwoody is responsible for leading a multi-disciplinary team of industry and government representatives in planning and implementing a pre-commercial fuel cell vehicle demonstration project in California. Prior to working for the Partnership, she worked for the California Air Resources Board for 14 years, where she managed teams responsible for a variety of activities, ranging from developing stationary source test methods to developing and implementing vehicle regulations. Dunwoody has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Davis.

Stephen M. Ellis
Manager, Fuel Cell Vehicle Marketing, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Steve Ellis has worked on vehicle-related environmental and energy topics for many years, including alternative fuel vehicles research and creation of Honda’s Alternative Fuel Vehicle department.  Ellis was responsible for launching and selling the Civic GX Natural Gas Vehicle in 1998, and is responsible for planning Honda’s alternative fuel vehicle marketing and deploying their Fuel Cell vehicles and Hydrogen refueling infrastructure solutions.  He has served on several South Coast Air Quality Management District and other government committees to develop incentives for clean vehicle and employee ride share programs. Ellis has also served on numerous industry organization boards, assisted with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Hydrogen Highway Team, and is founding member of the California Natural Gas Vehicle Partnership. He now serves on the Board of the National Hydrogen Association.

Ken Eskenazi
Co-founder, Clean Agency

Ken Eskenazi’s focus at Clean Agency is on creating systems and strategies that do more with less. Eskenazi and his partner started the firm to educate businesses on the principles of sustainability and the business case for applying them. Eskenazi presented his design concept for the inaugural “The Art of Making Peace” award at the United Nations’ Peacemaking in the Family: Nuclear, Community and Global conference in New York City; he is an Advisory Board Member for the Sustainable Business Council Los Angeles and a member of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. Eskenazi holds degrees from Occidental College and from Art Center College of Design, and he teaches sustainable packaging at UCLA when time allows.

Fred Farina
Assistant Vice President for Technology Transfer, California Institute of Technology

Fred Farina’s responsibilities include evaluating inventions at Caltech and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA), supervising patent prosecution and portfolio management, negotiating licensing deals with industry and assisting Caltech/JPL entrepreneurs with the creation of startups.

Farnia holds a "Diplôme d'Ingénieur" in Electrical Engineering from the Institute National des Sciences Appliquees, Lyon, France, and is a graduate of Caltech from which he received his M.S. in Electrical Engineering in 1992. He is a registered U.S. patent agent.

Don Ferrier
President, Ferrier Custom Homes

Don Ferrier is the third generation of the Ferrier family in the quality construction business. Ferrier's grandfather, Alexander Ferrier, a general contractor/stonemason, immigrated to this county from Scotland in 1881 with his brother, David Ferrier, to assist with construction of the Texas State Capitol.

Following in his grandfather's, father's, and uncles' footsteps, Ferrier carried on the construction heritage when he established Ferrier Builders, Inc. in 1984.  In 2004, Ferrier Builders began building custom homes as Ferrier Custom Homes, specializing in green, affordable, and energy-efficient homes.

Rick Fochtman
Manager of Project Development, Bernards

Rick Fochtman has more than14 years of experience in the Inland Empire construction market.  His responsibilities include business development and pre-construction management for projects within the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley.  In addition, Fochtman heads up his company’s sustainability efforts, assisting with LEED management and documentation as well as employee training and accreditation assistance.  He has helped his company achieve LEED Certification on several public and private projects.  Fochtman is a founding board member of the United States Green Build Council Organizing Group in the Inland Empire where he serves as the Program /Education Chair.

Fochtman holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies / Geographical Planning from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Gil Friend
President and Chief Executive Officer, Natural Logic

A systems ecologist and business consultant with more than 35 years in business, communications and environmental innovation, Gil Friend combines broad experience in systems ecology, business strategy and management, economic development, public policy, and marketing.  He has founded and managed companies in the fields of sustainable development and social marketing.  Friend was a founding board member of internet pioneer Institute for Global Communications, and played key or founding roles in such seminal environmental enterprises as EcoNet, GreenLine, the California Office of Appropriate Technology, and Buckminster Fuller’s “World Game.” He was co-founder and Co-Director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, one of the nation’s leading urban ecology and economic development think-tanks.

Friend holds an MS in Systems Ecology from Antioch University.

Andy J. Funk
Chairman, CEO, and Managing Director, Funk Ventures, Inc.

Andy J. Funk believes that businesses can and should make significant contributions to people, society or the environment. As an accomplished entrepreneur turned venture capitalist, Funk embodies the Funk Ventures philosophy by expertly combining his passion for business and investing with an altruistic vision to impact the world for good.
As the youngest founding member of a venture capital firm in the United States, Funk established Funk Ventures in 2000 as one of the only venture capital firms focused on making a social impact. Since 2000, he has since been actively involved in the funding, development and sale of almost twenty companies in the Med Tech, Wellness and Cleantech markets. Most recently, Funk authored the chapter "Investing Today for a Better Tomorrow" in the book “VC: Best Practices”. A frequent panelist and presenter, he has spoken and lectured at various industry forums and conferences. A philanthropist since founding his second company, Helping.org, Funk continues to enthusiastically support organizations whose philosophies closely align with his philanthropic ideals. He resides with his wife Kristi M. Funk, a renowned breast cancer surgeon, in Santa Monica, California.

The Honorable Eric Garcetti
President, Los Angeles City Council, 13th Council District

A fourth-generation Angeleno, Eric Garcetti won a hotly-contested election to the Los Angeles City Council in 2001, becoming one of the youngest city council members in the city's history. Over 100 languages are spoken on the streets of his district, from Hollywood to Downtown and across the Los Angeles River. The neighborhoods he represents constitute the beating heart of Los Angeles. Unanimously elected as Council President in December 2005 and unanimously re-elected in July 2007, Garcetti has modernized the council’s legislative assignments, making the council’s committees more reflective of the issues that face Los Angeles. Garcetti’s work has been recognized in dozens of awards, including the Green Cross Millennium Award from former President Mikhail Gorbachev for environmental leadership.

Garcetti studied urban planning and political science at Columbia University, where he received his B.A. and M.A. in International Relations. He studied as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University and the London School of Economics.

Ronald R. Gastelum
Attorney at Law, SunCal Companies

Ronald R. Gastelum has extensive experience in the public services and public infrastructure sectors, with particular emphasis on water, waste management and energy.  Gastelum served as the Chief Executive Officer of The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.  He was responsible for managing the operations of one of the largest water suppliers in the world with an annual budget of over $1 billion, serving the 18 million residents of urban Southern California.  Gastelum was notably successful in leading the agency to further diversify the region’s water supply sources with the development of new large water transfer, groundwater banking, reclaimed water, and conservation programs.  After retiring from Metropolitan in December 2004, Gastelum has participated in the formation of a new Southern California energy supply company and a new water supply company specializing in water conservation. He is serving as Chairman of the Board for both companies. 

Gastelum received his J.D. from the UCLA School of Law in 1971, where he was the recipient of the HUD Urban Studies Fellowship.  He received his B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Whittier College.

Steve Gossett, Jr.
Vice President, Transcend Equity Development Corporation

Steve Gossett’s career in the energy services industry began when he joined CSI Energy Solutions in 1995.  In 1997, Gossett pioneered the Managed Utility Services Contracting (MUSC) method for developing energy savings projects in the commercial real estate market, developing over $25 million in MUSC projects. Gossett is active in the Real Estate community, and is a graduate of the Associate Leadership Council for the Real Estate Council (TREC) in Dallas. He was appointed to the board of directors for TREC in 2004, and has served in an advisory capacity for the organization through multiple committees.

Gossett holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Texas A & M University, an EIT certification from the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) as well as Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified Demand Side Manager (CDSM) and Certified Energy Procurement Professional (CEP) certifications from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE).

Jack Graves
Chief Cultural Officer, Burgerville The Holland, Inc.

A true visionary of the industry, Jack Graves has spent more than 30 years in the Quick Service Restaurant industry. He has won several sales awards and is committed to the implementation of sustainable practices and affordable health care for all employees. Throughout his career Graves has spoken on various industry panels and at the Sustainable Business Forum in Portland.

Jeffrey L. Hahn
Environmental Director, Covanta Energy Corporation

Covanta Energy is an internationally recognized owner and operator of energy-from-waste and power generation projects. The company’s operations include converting  municipal solid waste into renewable energy for 12 million people in numerous communities across the United States. Producing 7,800 gigawatts of renewable electricity per year, Covanta Energy processes more than 5% of the nation’s waste, saving the equivalent of 15 billion barrels of oil while recovering and recycling 360,000 tons of metals which could be used in the manufacture of 275,00 hybrid cars each year.  

Jeffrey Hahn is a diplomate in the American Academy of Environmental Engineers, and a qualified environmental professional with the Institute of Professional Environmental Practice.  Hahn holds a B.S. degree in engineering from University of California at Los Angeles, and a M.S. Degree in chemical engineering from the University of California at Berkeley.

Mike Hall
President, Borrego Solar Systems, Inc.

Mike Hall has always had a strong commitment to the renewable energy field.  He joined Borrego Solar Systems as a partner in 2002, and his primary focus has been the sales and marketing of commercial grid-tied solar power systems.

Hall holds a MS in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University and a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Julie Johnson
Business Development Manager, New Leaf Paper

Julie Johnson works with businesses and nonprofits to help them identify and implement environmentally responsible paper solutions.  Her efforts include a special focus on the entertainment industry. Johnson is passionate about her work and is committed to the company vision: to inspire a fundamental shift toward environmental responsibility in the paper industry.  She helps her customers identify paper solutions that are economical while meeting their social and environmental responsibility goals.

Miles Kelly
Vice President, Marketing & Strategy, 365 Main Inc

Miles Kelly is responsible for defining and  executing the company's strategic marketing initiatives, increasing global awareness of 365 Main, and accelerating 365 Main's reach into new and growing markets. Kelly is a recognized industry leader and a well regarded author on topics such as IT Compliance, content distribution and document management strategies.

Kelly holds a Marketing degree from of Santa Clara University.

Edward T. Kjaer
Director of Electric Transportation, Southern California Edison

Edward Kjaer has been Director of Electric Transportation for Southern California Edison since 1999.  He is responsible for all facets of the ET Division’s electro-drive activities including; system impact and assessment of Battery EV, Hybridization and Fuel Cell technologies, customer education, ET load management and energy efficiency programs, ET rates and incentives, EPACT Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) fleet compliance, and operation of the industry leading Electric Vehicle Technology Center (EVTC).  Kjaer participates in a number of electro-drive related industry organizations, including Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), Edison Electric Institute (EEI), he is a member of Governor Schwarzenegger’s Hydrogen Highway Advisory Panel and he is on the boards of Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA), and the California Electric Transportation Coalition (CalETC).

Tim Kohut, AIA
Architectural Director, Los Angeles Community Design Center (LACDC)

At LACDC, Tim Kohut uses his knowledge and skills to balance the myriad requirements imposed on projects by investors, donors, and government agencies with the needs of LACDC and the communities it serves. Additionally, he focuses on sustainable (“Green”) design, passive cooling, and the implementation of energy efficient design techniques. His research into alternate cooling strategies and indoor air quality for affordable housing is ongoing. He has conducted workshops for the Los Angeles Chapter of the US Green Building Council, the Southern California Association for Nonprofit Housing (SCANPH) while contributing papers to the American Solar Energy Society and Home Energy Magazine. In November 2007, Mr. Kohut presented a paper to a national audience at the US Green Building Council’s Annual Convention (Greenbuild) in Chicago.

Kohut received a Master of Architecture from University of California Los Angeles, a Master of Arts in Urban Planning from the University of California Los Angeles and a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Scott M. Kolbrenner
Director, Houlihan Lokey, Los Angeles

Scott Kolbrenner is a generalist with experience in many of the firm’s product areas including private placement, M&A, restructurings and valuations. Prior to joining the firm, Kolbrenner was an associate in the Asset Securitization Group of Lehman Brothers, where he was involved in the structuring, marketing and execution of medium- and short-term asset-backed securities transactions. He has spoken publicly and published several works on financial matters.

Kolbrenner earned a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a B.A. in psychology, summa cum laude, from the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Felix Kramer
Entrepreneur and Lifelong Environmentalist

Concentrating on innovative ideas, events and businesses in energy and technology, Felix Kramer builds ambitious and "first-ever" projects and companies. In 2002, working with entrepreneurs, environmentalists, engineers, and drivers, Kramer founded the non-profit California Cars Initiative (CalCars.org) to put plug-in hybrid vehicles on the map through technology demonstrations, advocacy and buyer demand. The California Cars Initiative was first to convert the popular Toyota Prius into a prototype grid-connected plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).  In April 2006, Kramer became the world's first non-technical consumer owner of a PHEV. Now, PHEVs are broadly supported by public officials, corporations, government, media and consumer groups. Successful commercialization of PHEVs is CalCars' goal.

A graduate of Cornell University, Kramer lives with his wife and son in Silicon Valley.

Joel Kurtzman
Senior Fellow; Publisher, The Milken Institute Review

Joel Kurtzman began his career as an international economist at the United Nations, where he was deputy director of the U.N.’s Project on the Future. He was responsible for 19 teams of researchers in 23 countries who were engaged in a massive, global, economic and social forecasting and policy-making program. His economic modeling teams were the first to warn of the impending Latin America debt crisis. Kurtzman’s research teams produced a library of 17 volumes of books on the global economy. While at the U.N., he participated in the negotiations between India and the Union Carbide Corporation over the Bhopal disaster. For these efforts, he was awarded India’s Indira Gandhi Prize.

Kurtzman earned his BA at the University of California, Berkeley, where he was the Recipient of the Eisner Memorial Award, the highest award given by the university to a student. He earned his master's at the University of Houston in Studies of the Future (economic forecasting) and was the recipient of a Moody Foundation Fellowship.

Timothy Kuryak
V.P., West Coast Development and Production, Planet Green, Discovery Channel

Timothy Kuryak is the Vice President, West Coast Development and Production for Planet Green on the Discovery Channel. Kuryak is based at Discovery’s offices in Los Angeles where he oversees a robust development slate for Planet Green’s linear network spanning subjects and categories from the hottest trends in modern green design to the latest in eco transportation and architecture to new takes on organic cuisine.  His responsibilities include developing relationships with a range of independent producers and production companies to fuel a diverse offering of entertaining green lifestyle content. Kuryak is also charged with securing and building Planet Green’s lineup of green experts, credible personalities and celebrity talent. Kuryak earned a B.A. in political science and history from Brown University. Kuryak joined Discovery from FOX WORLD, where he was vice president, Fox World Productions in Los Angeles. In this role, he served as a worldwide executive producer for all forms of non-fiction programming, overseeing the international rollout, adaptation and production of such hits as Beauty and the Geek, The Simple Life, and Joe Millionaire. Previously, Kuryak was the head of development and programming for ReelzChannel, where he managed the development of a $20 million slate of original programming for the start-up network.

Mike S. Lee
Vice President, Technology Architecture & Planning, FOX Entertainment Group

Mike S. Lee is the Vice President of Technology Architecture & Planning for FOX Entertainment Group, where he is responsible for technology strategy, internal technology consulting, standards management and architecture operations. In addition to his day job, he is also the IT liaison for News Corporation’s CoolChange Initiative, which has the published goal of making News Corporation carbon neutral by 2010. Lee’s previous lives included head of enterprise application architecture for Warner Bros., technology evangelist for Netscape, and head of technology for various Internet/software companies. Lee has spoken globally on Internet technologies at major conferences across the United States and Europe including: Comdex Enterprise, DevCon, Business Objects and Object World.

Lee currently resides in greater Los Angeles, California with his wife and 4 year old daughter. He holds bachelors degrees in Economics and Computer Science from the University of California, San Diego.

Cary J. Lefton
Chief Executive Officer, Agora Realty & Management

Cary Lefton has been the Chief Executive Officer of Agora Realty & Management since co-founding the full-service real estate development company in 1986 with the firm’s president, Michael C. Bollenbacher. The San Fernando Valley-based firm’s $550 million portfolio includes retail, industrial, mixed use, commercial and residential properties in communities throughout Southern California, Nevada and Hawaii. The company is distinguished by its long history of profitably investing, developing and building community sensitive projects. Lefton is especially gratified by Agora’s strong reputation for incorporating sophisticated, state-of-the art, environmental solutions, including solar power, water reclamation and construction techniques to enhance a building’s efficiency as well as its long-term profitability.

Lefton earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Southern California.

Ken Lewis
President, AC Martin Partners

Ken Lewis has been with the firm for over 25 years. He is a designer first, with an inherent ability to bring people, ideas and technology together, helping to create and influence the built environment. A long time advocate of Sustainable Design Principles, Lewis strongly believes in a holistic approach to architecture. He is able to marry socially responsible and environmentally sensitive designs with sustainable business practices to maximize his client’s bottom line.

Lewis received his Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Southern California.

Joshua Mark
Executive Director, Special Event Production/Creative Services, FOX Broadcasting Company

Joshua Mark’s responsibilities include handling the technical production and logistics for FOX’s corporate meetings, sports hospitality programs, premier parties and special events.  Over the past year, Mark has also been responsible for “Greening” special events at FOX including making the 2007 Upfront Presentation a carbon neutral and green event; as well as for FOX’s greening efforts at the 2007 Primetime Emmy Awards including the installation of the 13KW Solar Canopy on the Recycled Red Carpet and the Incandescent Lighting Free Media Tent.  Most recently Mark  was responsible for the FOX Hospitality Eco-Initiative program at Super Bowl XLII in Phoenix.

Mark holds a bachelors degree from North Carolina School of the Arts in Stage Management and Masters Degree in Producing from the American Film Institute.

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger
Chef/Owners, Border Grill and Ciudad

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger have been business partners for over 20 years, beginning with the opening of City Cafe on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles in 1981.  Currently they are hands-on owner-operators of the popular and critically acclaimed Border Grill restaurants in Santa Monica and Las Vegas, as well as Ciudad restaurant in Downtown Los Angeles. They are authors of five cookbooks, and have appeared on 396 episodes of the popular Too Hot Tamales and Tamales World Tour programs on Food Network.  Milliken and Feniger are also the creators of the Border Girls brand of fresh preparedfoods at Whole Foods Market.

Milliken and Feniger are active members of the community, playing leading roles in many culinary associations and charities,notably Share Our Strength, the Scleroderma Research Foundation, the Chefs Collaborative and Women Chefs andRestaurateurs. 

H. David Nahai
Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, LADWP

David Nahai is expected to lead LADWP on an ambitious path to modernize the utility's infrastructure and reduce its contribution to global warming. Previously, Nahai was appointed by Mayor Villaraigosa to the LADWP Board in September 2005 and elected both Vice President and President by his fellow commissioners. As President, Nahai led the effort to increase the Department's use of renewable energy sources. Since 2005, LADWP has nearly tripled its renewable energy portfolio from 3 percent to 8 percent, and the Department is on track to reach its ultimate goals of 20 percent by 2010 and 35 percent by 2020. Nahai is widely recognized throughout California as a leading expert in water issues. With over ten years on the state's Regional Water Quality Control Board, Nahai has been charged with safeguarding the quality of surface, ground and coastal waters while covering a jurisdiction of 11 million residents in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.

Nahai has been the recipient of numerous awards and commendations. In 2003, he received the Environmental Champion Award from the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters and was twice honored for community leadership.

Robert Nebolon
Founder and Principal, Robert Nebolon Architects

Robert Nebolon has been specializing in residential and small commercial projects in Northern and Southern California since 1994. Nebolon has over 25 years of design experience providing services for a variety of structures and projects including residential, commercial, residential, and institutional work. As principal, he ensures the delivery of dynamic, innovative work which defines new possibilities for materials, form, sustainable technologies, and place-making with every project. Spatial and structural solutions work together to form an integrated architecture that takes cues from the surroundings, taking advantage of what the site and micro-climate has to offer.

Nebolon received his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from University of California at Berkeley in 1982. In 1983, Mr. Nebolon received his Master in Architecture from University of Washington.

Jonathan Parfrey
Director, GREEN LA

The GREEN LA coalition is composed of over sixty environmental and environmental justice organizations. A project of the Liberty Hill Foundation, GREEN LA is organized in a network of five workgroups tasked with improving the environment by addressing 1) public transportation, 2) energy generation, 3) Port of Los Angeles, 4) management of the urban ecosystem, and 5) the cumulative impacts of toxins on disenfranchised communities. GREEN LA also administers six projects; the most important involves drafting the public participation element of the City's global warming action plan.

Jonathan Parfrey also currently serves as Vice-President of the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters and sits on the board of the statewide group, Alliance for Nuclear Responsibility. In 2003, Parfrey was appointed to Governor Schwarzenegger's Environmental Policy Team, and was previously appointed to Governor Davis' select committee on radioactive waste disposal. In 2002 he was awarded a Durfee Foundation Fellowship.

Francisco “Cisco” Pinedo
CEO and Founder, Cisco Brothers Corporation

Cisco Brothers Corporation is an award-winning custom furniture manufacturer with a focus on sustainable design.  Cisco Pinedo started at a young age producing hand crafted upholstery from his garage. His passion for detail, quality, and innovative designs was quickly recognized and his company began to grow. He recruited family members and moved his operations to the heart of South Central Los Angeles after the 1992 LA riots in an attempt to revitalize the area and his hometown.  Cisco Brothers has since more than tripled in size selling to retail outlets across the country and operating its own retail stores, Cisco Home, in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and San Francisco, as well as a gallery at ABC Carpet & Home in NYC. Cisco Brothers continues to be a critical component in the redevelopment of the neighborhood surrounding the factory.  Pinedo was recognized by KCET as Hispanic Heritage month’s “Hero of the Year.”

Greg Roche
Director of Business Development, Ports and Logistics, Southern California Edison

Focused on the goods movement industry, Greg Roche works to develop freight transportation business opportunities for Clean Energy at the nation’s ports, terminals, intermodal facilities, warehouse operations, and distribution facilities.  He began his career with Southern California Edison, and has amassed significant energy and environmental management expertise. 

Roche holds an M.S. degree in mechanical engineering from UCLA, and a B.S. degree in nuclear engineering from Iowa State University.

Harold M. (Hal) Romanowitz
President & COO, Oak Creek Energy Systems, Inc.

Hal Romanowitz has more than 23 years’ experience in wind power, covering project development and operation, wind turbine design, transmission and power purchase agreement (PPA) issues.  He was a co-developer of the first successful utility scale wind project in the United States— the Bonneville project on Whitewater Hill in San Gorgonio.  Romanowitz was an initiator of the process that has resulted in the Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project, the largest renewable energy transmission project in the country, which is resulting in 4,500 MW of new network transmission capacity in the Tehachapi area and a major expansion of the Southern California grid.  He is active in transmission, intermittent energy integration, land use, and environmental policy issues.

Romanowitz holds a BSEE Degree from Purdue University and an MBA from the University of California.  

Lou Ronsivalli
Service Offers Development Leader, Americas Services and Contracting, Trane Corp.
Louis J. Ronsivalli Jr. serves as the service offers development leader and heads a team of six program managers engaged in development of service offers through collaboration with field offices and territory teams at Trane Corp. This is a “top line” development team that provides support, training, awareness and documentation to support all programs indefinitely, post-launch and through all stages of implementation. Also, this team sets requirements for reporting needs and visibility that bring full awareness to service growth initiatives. Ronsivalli is active in the energy and facilities management community, acting as an adjunct faculty member in the Continuing Education program at Northern Essex Community College, teaching undergraduate mathematics and computer applications courses. He is a long-time participating member in the Association of Energy Engineers and the Boston Chapter of the U.S. Green Buildings Council. Ronsivalli has authored several published articles and has been a contributing author of two energy books. Ronsivalli earned a master’s degree in business administration from New Hampshire College and a Master of Science degree in engineering from Northeastern University. He resides in Salem, NH, where he operates in a home office.

The Honorable Bill Rosendahl
Los Angeles Councilman, 11th District

Since taking office in July 2005, Bill Rosendahl has focusedon: stopping the expansion of Los Angeles International Airport, promoting mass transit, enhancing public safety, curbing overdevelopment, standing up for tenants’ rights and for affordable housing, seeking solutions to the problem of homelessness, and giving our neighborhoods a greater voice in city decision-making. His most notable achievement so far has been the historic agreement between LAX and airport neighbors, ending airport expansion and promoting regional aviation. Prior to his election, Rosendahl was an educator and an award-winning television broadcaster with a long record as a leader in Los Angeles civic affairs.

Rosendahl holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Pittsburgh, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Economics from St. Vincent College, Latrobe, PA. He is also as a world traveler who has visited 52 countries.

Kipling Rutherford  
Marketing Coordinator, Ecover Ecological Cleaning Products

Kipling Rutherford is primarily responsible for the management of North American advertising for the company and designs a majority of the ads and public relations materials.  Rutherford has also developed many exciting events for Ecover including projects that educate residents in various watershed areas regarding the presence of phosphates in conventional cleaning products and the risk they pose to their watersheds and aquatic life.  She has cultivated many successful relationships with organizations including Surfrider and Heal the Bay that find unique ways to fundraise for environmental causes.

Rutherford has a B.A. from the University of California, Los Angeles.

Ben Saltsman
Planning Deputy to LA County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky

Ben Saltsman is responsible for planning and land-use issues in the unincorporated areas of the Third Supervisorial District and the review of projects outside the Third District. His duties include coordinating policies and programs with homeowner groups, environmental organizations, various governmental entities, developers and other affected constituencies as well as helping property owners navigate the County planning process. Saltsman joined Yaroslavsky's staff in 2002 as Field Deputy, where he was responsible for constituent services in the southwest San Fernando Valley and Santa Monica Mountains areas.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UCLA, where he graduated with magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa distinction and is currently pursuing a Masters of Planning degree from the University of Southern California.

Jeffrey C. Selman
Partner, Nixon Peabody LLP

Jeffrey C. Selman is a Partner in the Palo Alto, California office of Nixon Peabody LLP. Selman graduated from the Columbia University School of Law in 1990, and is admitted to the State Bar of California, for which he served as vice chair of its Business Law Section in 2004–2005. Selman has extensive experience in general transactional representation, which focuses on information technology, life sciences and clean technology public and private companies with an emphasis on general corporate and securities matters, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, and intellectual property licensing and collaborative arrangements. Much of his practice today is focused on the representation of venture capital-backed companies and investors into those companies. He also has mergers and acquisitions experience on both the buy-side and the sell-side, and on both sides of public-public, public-private, private-public, and private-private transactions.

Henry Shea
Shea Properties

Henry Shea heads the Shea Properties’ initiative to embrace principles of sustainability as a core value in the projects it develops and the properties it manages, balancing environmental resources, economic objectives and social systems. The Collection at RiverPark, a 600,000 square foot lifestyle center in West Ventura County is at the forefront of the company’s green building approach in its attempt to achieve LEED certification.  Anchored by Whole Foods, The Collection has integrated these principles into its mixed-use design, including a 2.5 acre open space and a public art program that educates the public about the environment and eco-system.

Lindsay Smith
CEO and President, Rubbersidewalks

Lindsay Smith recognized the importance of the Santa Monica rubber paver trials and brought them to the attention of other cities in Southern California and the media, which led to the formation of Rubbersidewalks.  Smith expanded the product line and quality of the original rubber pavers and has supervised the growth of the company since its formation in 2001.  With a background in the feature film industry, publishing, environmental activism, and classroom teaching, Lindsay has been a literary editor for George Lucas, Lucasfilm, Ltd. where she produced nonprofit events for environmental causes and served as Director of Development for Mediators Productions, a socially responsible film company.  She is an active participant in the policies of the California Integrated Waste Management Board, Sacramento, California.

Chris Spain
President and CEO, HydroPoint Data Systems, Inc.

Chris Spain co-founded HydroPoint in 2002 with the long-term vision of providing intelligent water management for sustained conservation and cost savings. HydroPoint is now regarded as a proven leader in clean technology, with top-tier venture and strategic partnerships. Under Spain's direction, the Company helps many thousands of customers collectively save a billion gallons of water each year.

Leslie Mintz Tamminen
Legislative Director/Staff Director, Heal the Bay

Leslie Mintz Tamminen has been with Heal the Bay since 1997. She is responsible for the development and implementation of statewide legislation about water pollution, including marine debris. Tamminen also engages in regulatory and policy advocacy before various local and state agencies.

Tamminen is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, and the University of Southern California Law Center.

Stephen Tracy
Partner, Novogradac & Company, LLP

Stephen Tracy works extensively in the real estate and renewable energy industries.  His project experience includes tophotovoltaic (solar) installations, wind farm projects, and open and closed loop biomass facilities. Within the renewable energy industry he has experience working with developers, syndicators and institutional investors who are developing projects that utilize existing federal and state programs that promote renewable energy production; most specifically the investment tax credit in connection with photovoltaic (solar) installations and the production tax credit in connection with wind farm and biomass projects. Tracy has written many articles on affordable housing and real estate related topics and is a frequent speaker at various affordable housing conferences.

Tracy received his BA degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance and real estate from San Francisco State University.

Mark Warren
Strategic Sales Leader, Southern California District Office of Trane

Mark Warren holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame and has twenty-six years of broad-based experience in the building systems industry. Warren has held engineering, sales and management positions in both the San Diego and Los Angeles offices of Honeywell, Landis & Gyr and for the past twelve years, Trane.  He possesses in-depth knowledge of building mechanical and electrical systems design, engineering, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance.

James Weiner
Principal, Collaborative Project Consulting and Founding Co-Chair U.S. Green Building Council, Los Angeles Chapter

Collaborative Project Consulting is a nationally recognized leader in creating and facilitating environmentally responsible design solutions that are integrated with client and community goals. Actively involved in sustainability efforts at the local, state and national levels for many years, Jim Weiner served as Vice Chair of the US Green Building Service Council’s Education Core Committee, was founding co-chair of the USGBC Los Angeles Chapter and received City Council Commendation for his contribution to the city of Los Angeles Sustainable Building Initiative.

Weiner received his BA from Pitzer College in Economics, Fine Art and Environmental Studies. He earned his MArch from Rice University.

Greg Wendt, CFP
Certified Financial Planner, Enright Premier Wealth Advisors

Greg Wendt is one of five principals of Enright Premier Wealth Advisors, a registered investment advisory firm.  Wendt aims to help his clients see their money and resources in the broader context of their lives and heartfelt values.  He conducts seminars on various topics, including: Socially and Environmentally Responsible Investing, Planned Giving and Charitable Planning, Retirement Planning and Estate Planning.  Wendt is one of only a handful of Socially Responsible Investment experts in Southern California. Wendt donates a large amount of time in various capacities to a number of social justice and environmental projects in his community.

Alan R. Weverstad
Executive Director, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy, Public Policy Center, General Motors Corporation

Alan Weverstad began his career in 1971 in the engineering area with Pontiac Motor Division where he worked as a design release & development engineer in the chassis and engine development sections. In 1985 he became a part of the Chevrolet-Pontiac-GM of Canada team where he was involved in the emission certification of 77 engine families. He then joined the Marine Engine Division and in 1991 moved to the Environmental Activities Staff and GM Research working on vehicle emissions issues.

Weverstad is a member and past chairman of the California Fuel Cell Partnership; member and past chairman of the Alliance Mobile Source Committee; chairman of the Engine Manufacturers Association; on the board of directors for the Electric Drive Transportation Association; on the board of advisors for UC Riverside and California H2 Highway; and is a member of the Governor’s Michigan Climate Action Council.

Weverstad is a graduate of General Motors Institute and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from Oakland University.

Paul Wormser
Senior Director, Product Development, Sharp Solar Systems

Paul Wormser develops the strategy and execution plan for Sharp’s system integration business and leads the American product development group.  He joined Sharp in 2007 with nearly 30 years of experience in solar energy. Prior to SHARP, Wormser served as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence for the University of Massachusetts where he licensed technology, helped create University spinouts and coached companies in the University’s business incubator.  He began his professional career with the solar energy subsidiaries of Exxon and Mobil. 

Wormser earned his MBA from Northeastern University, his BSME from The George Washington University and his BA (Spanish) from SUNY Albany.  He is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, Tau Beta Pi, Pi Tau Sigma and Sigma Delta Pi.

Stephanie C. Yanchinski
Executive Director, Entretech

Stephanie Yanchinski is responsible for overseeing all aspects of strategic planning and operations, including fund-raising, membership, programming and promotion for Entretech.  Since its launch in 2000, the organization has grown to over 250 members, and has become the premier business development and networking organization. Yanchinski is an award-winning writer and marketing and communications specialist with a science background.  She has authored two books on biotechnology. 

A graduate of McGill University, in Canada, Yanchinski trained as a scientist and pursued medical research in hormone metabolism in Canada and the UK, where she earned a second degree before turning to a career in science journalism.

Denny Zane
Executive Director, Subway to the Sea Coalition and the Los Angeles County Transportation Funding Collaborative/Move LA

Denny Zane is formerly the Mayor of Santa Monica and Executive Director of the Coalition for Clean Air. As a Santa Monica councilmember and mayor, he led the revitalization of the Third Street Promenade and initiated many of Santa Monica’s nationally recognized urban environmental programs, including its clean fleet program and its smart growth land use policies. While Executive Director at the Coalition for Clean Air from 1992-94, Zane initiated the successful campaign to convince the MTA to purchase only natural gas buses. Later, working with the late Carl Moyer and the California Trucking Association, he worked to create the Carl Moyer Program for financing alternatives to diesel technologies. As a consultant to the City of El Segundo, Zane designed the campaign to stop the expansion of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and later helped organize the constituency campaigns for Assemblywoman Fran Pavley’s landmark legislation to reduce greenhouse gases.