UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- In recognition of leadership in advancing sustainability initiatives, Olivia DiPrinzio, an undergraduate at University Park, has received a 2024 John Roe Sustainability Impact Award. Named in honor of the late Penn State mathematics professor John Roe, this award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated a profound commitment to fostering sustainable practices within the University community. Through her diverse array of roles and initiatives, DiPrinzio has emerged as a student leader dedicated to promoting sustainability awareness and education on campus.
Beginning with her role as sustainability chair for her honors fraternity, DiPrinzio introduced a series of initiatives that deeply integrated sustainability into her peers' daily lives. "Through engaging presentations and interactive events, I aimed to unveil the intricate connections between our everyday actions and the broader sustainability goals," she explained, highlighting her drive to foster a culture of responsible consumption and proactive climate action.
As a climate science and education intern, DiPrinzio has been instrumental in shaping the developing School of Sustainability and a sustainability attribute that promises to transform Penn State’s curriculum. "This initiative will not only elevate our academic offerings but also cultivate a generation of graduates ready to take on the world's sustainability challenges," she said.
"Olivia's focus, breadth of knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment to justice and dignity make her a great sustainability educator," said Peter Buck, associate director of climate and sustainability education. "She is an ideal peer and thought partner for SustainPSU as we build toward a School of Sustainability and deeper integration of sustainability across all of Penn State’s academics."
Her passion for the environment steered her towards impactful research on local climate action plans and their community engagement methodologies, DiPrinzio said. This research blossomed into an undergraduate honors thesis with global implications.
"My goal is to produce a working document that serves as a vital, accessible resource for communities crafting climate action plans, especially those facing resource, time, or workforce constraints,” said DiPrinzio.
DiPrinzio’s recognition signifies the University's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and education, according to Douglas Goodstein, associate director for student engagement at Penn State Sustainability.
“Olivia DiPrinzio exemplifies the spirit of the John Roe Sustainability Impact Award," Goodstein said. "Her innovative contributions have significantly advanced our sustainability mission, and her work lays a foundation for others to build a more sustainable and equitable world."
For more information on Penn State's sustainability initiatives and the impact of award recipients like Olivia DiPrinzio, visit sustainability.psu.edu or contact Douglas Goodstein at drg5343@psu.edu.