Meet our mighty team in the Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations!
Fang Wu, MBA - Community Energy Manager
Fang focuses on the research, development, implementation, and management of energy programs to reduce community-wide greenhouse gas emissions for the City. Prior to joining the City, Fang worked with the State Utility Forecasting Group and performed policy studies, resource planning and load forecasts for Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and utilities. Fang has an MBA from Krannert School of Management, Purdue University, and a Master in applied economics from the University of Minnesota. When not at work, Fang enjoys reading, hiking, and camping. FWu@a2gov.org
Simi Barr – Energy Fellow
Simi recently finished graduate school at the University of Michigan, where he studied Sustainable Systems and Space Systems Engineering. As an Fellow with OSI, he has worked on various projects including the A2ZERO Plan and EV charging within Ann Arbor. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time in Ann Arbor's parks, hiking, playing guitar, and ice hockey. sbarr@a2gov.org
Galen Hardy – Community Engagement Specialist
Galen comes from Zero Waste Detroit where he served as the Education and Outreach Coordinator promoting recycling. Galen is also an honorably discharged Marine Corps veteran and has over 7 years of community organizing experience. He earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Health Administration from Eastern Michigan University and his Masters of Public Administration degree from Oakland University. Galen joined the City of Ann Arbor in 2019 and serves as the Community Outreach and Engagement Specialist working specifically with residents and traditionally underserved populations. ghardy@a2gov.org
Josh MacDonald – Energy Coordinator
Josh is the Energy Coordinator for the City of Ann Arbor. He has worked on developing and implementing energy programs with a focus on reducing Ann Arbor’s carbon footprint, both throughout the community as well as within City operations. These programs often integrate innovative measures that promote renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency. Josh has been with the City since 2015. jmacdonald@a2gov.org.
Julie Roth – Solarize Program Lead
Julie is an Ann Arbor resident, green energy advocate and community organizer who is now working with the Office of Sustainability and Innovations on creation and implementation of bulk-buy programs for solar, energy efficiency and electrification of homes. Julie has a BA in biology from Kenyon College and MPT from the University of Iowa. She is a passionate educator and liaison between the technical sector and the community, and loves public speaking as well as gardening, dogs and recreational tennis.
Sean Reynolds– Urban Trees Initiative Coordinator
Sean runs the 10,000 Trees Initiative, a program aimed at getting trees planted on private property in Ann Arbor. He has prior urban forestry experience through Casey Trees, a non-profit in Washington, DC. Sean has an M.S. degree in Forestry from Auburn University. Originally from Maryland, he moved to Ann Arbor in December 2020 and is excited to explore the natural beauty of Michigan and to share his passion for trees with the Ann Arbor community. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, reading, and cooking. sreynolds@a2gov.org Christine Schopieray – Executive Assistant to the Mayor
Christine has been the Executive Assistant to the Mayor for 14 years. In this role, she has helped to organize the City’s Green Fair since 2005, and she provides much assistance to the City’s Office of Sustainability & Innovations to ensure coordination between OSI and the Mayor’s Office. She has a BFA in Metalsmithing/Jewelry Design, and she is a vendor at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market. cschopieray@a2gov.org
Missy Stults, PhD – Sustainability and Innovations Manager
Dr. Missy Stults is the Sustainability and Innovations Manager for the City of Ann Arbor. In this role, she works with all city operations, residents, businesses, the University of Michigan, nonprofits, and others to make Ann Arbor one of the most sustainable and equitable cities in America. Prior to joining the City, Missy worked with local governments and indigenous communities around the nation to advance their climate and sustainability goals, including during her time as the Climate Director at ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability and as a consultant to philanthropic organizations. Missy has a PhD in urban resilience from the University of Michigan, a Masters in Climate and Society from Columbia University, and undergraduate degrees in Marine Biology and Environmental Science from the University of New England. mstults@a2gov.org
Zach Waas Smith – Community Engagement Specialist, Sustainable Development
An Ann Arbor area native, Zach focuses on incorporating sustainability into our City’s Building Department and beyond. With degrees in Environmental Sustainability and Urban Planning from Western Michigan University, and currently working towards Living Future Institute Accreditation, Zach works to collaboratively engage landlords, tenants, contractors, developers, and City Inspectors on the most sustainable practices available today. His prior work experience includes private contracting, community organizing, general maintenance, and the City’s Rental Housing Department. When not at work, Zach enjoys amateur woodworking, bicycle commuting, various house projects, meditating, and spending time connecting with the natural environment. zwaassmith@a2gov.org
Thea Yagerlener – Energy Analyst
An Ann Arbor native, Thea focuses on the design, implementation, and development of energy-related programs in the Office of Sustainability and Innovations. She works to develop our community’s greenhouse gas inventory to inform data-driven programs to reduce our community’s emissions. Thea has a BS in Chemical Engineering from Case Western Reserve. She enjoys climbing, cycling, practicing yoga, and exploring the great outdoors. tyagerlener@a2gov.org
Julius Alexander – Information Technology Liaison
A lifelong Ann Arbor resident, Julius has worked for the City of Ann Arbor for over five years in the role of Application Specialist. Julius has a master's degree in Engineering Management from Eastern Michigan University. His work in the Office of Sustainability centers around technical problem solving, enhancing efficiency and data management. He is thrilled to be a member of an enthusiastic group working toward the cause of Sustainability and Equity. Julius enjoys spending time paddle boarding on the river, playing boardgames keeping bees and causing mischief with his 2 daughters in his spare time. jalexander@a2gov.org
Kora Dreffs - Aging In Place Efficiently Coordinator
Kora is a coordinator for the City of Ann Arbor’s Aging in Place Efficiently program, a division of the Office of Sustainability and Innovations. She attended Emory University and obtained a B.S. majoring in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology with a minor in Ethics, as well as an M.A. in Bioethics. Kora’s work focuses on connecting with older adults to uncover barriers in maintaining their desired quality of life. This program engages with community partners to make sustainable changes resulting in the ability to age in place. When not working, Kora enjoys bird watching, reading, and spending time with her dog. kdreffs@a2gov.org
Jennifer Wolf - Aging in Place Efficiently Coordinator
Jennifer grew up playing in the Huron River and is passionate about freshwater resources and sustainable practices, having implemented the Huron River Watershed Council's Information and Education Campaign for Nonpoint Source Pollution Prevention. She also teaches fine art to seniors and enjoys building community while celebrating each student's capacities and talents in a supportive environment. She is thrilled to be part of the OSI team, combining equity and climate resiliency to forge a better future for all residents. Jennifer's “heart home" is on the shores of Lake Superior with her family, including their beloved rabbit, Flash. jwolf@a2gov.org
