Research Team
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Thomas Brelage
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Thomas Brelage is pursuing an MS in Environmental Science and Sustainability with a concentration in renewable energy development at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Environmental Sustainability. He holds a BA in Chemistry and Kinesiology from DePauw University in Greencastle, IN where he researched chemistry education methods, carbon-sequestration using electrochemical processes, and team cohesion in Division III athletes. In addition to his research, Thomas was an Environmental Fellow and supported sustainability initiatives by working on the campus farm and managing the university’s bike loan program. Prior to his time at Loyola, Thomas interned in Central Indiana, where he inventoried water piping for lead contaminants in utility-scale water projects. Currently, Thomas serves as a Development Intern at Ranger Power in Chicago as part of their greenfield development team. His thesis research focuses on county commissioner perspectives on large-scale solar projects in rural Indiana.
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Drew Pellico
Email: apellico@luc.edu
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/drew-pellico
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Drew Pellico holds a BS in Earth, Society, and Environmental Sustainability from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He is now in his second year at Loyola University Chicago, pursuing an MS in Environmental Science and Sustainability. In addition to conducting research on utility-scale solar projects, he has worked in the due diligence sector of the environmental consulting industry for about three years. His research interests include the implementation of large-scale renewable energy projects along with a particular focus on analyzing the economic and policy side effects of these facilities. His thesis research is investigating where and why geothermal district heating systems work in the U.S.
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Sophia Petrosino
Email: spetrosino@luc.edu
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/sophia-petrosino
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Sophia Petrosino is an undergraduate student pursuing a bachelor's degree in Environmental Policy on the pre-law track at Loyola University Chicago. Before conducting research on the implications of renewable and advanced energy deployment, she studied Biology and Environmental Science. She also worked as an assistant veterinarian technician to develop her understanding of the correlation between animals and climate change. Her research and career interests include environmental law and policy, animal law and ethics, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development.
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Elizabeth Sanchez
Email: esanchez17@luc.edu
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Elizabeth Sanchez is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Environmental Policy with a minor in Political Science on the pre-law track at Loyola University Chicago. Before beginning her studies at Loyola, Elizabeth was involved with her local community in San Antonio, Texas, and worked with her local Rotary Club, growing her interest in improving sustainability for local communities. At Loyola, Elizabeth provides support to the Climate & Energy Focus Area at the School of Environmental Sustainability and works with various campus organizations. Elizabeth’s career interests include environmental law and policy, as well as sustainable urban development.
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Melina Slone
Email: melinas5302@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melina-slone/ -
Melina Slone holds a BA in Environment with a specialization in GIS from the University of Michigan, and a certificate in Sustainable Business through the Erb Institute. She is currently working at a climate tech company in Chicago, focused on software for renewable energy credits and other environmental commodities. During her time as an undergrad, she studied renewable energy in Iceland and geology and field ecology on the big Island of Hawai’i. Her research interests include understanding the incentives for siting and expanding renewable energy projects, as well as optimizing their integration into the grid.
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D. Austin Stadie
Email: dstadie@luc.edu
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D. Austin Stadie holds a BA in Environmental Policy from Loyola University Chicago. He is currently pursuing an MS in Environmental Science and Sustainability at Loyola's School of Environmental Sustainability. Before his graduate studies, Austin gained experience working with Loyola's Urban Agriculture program and aquaponics systems, cultivating his interest in sustainable food production. For his graduate research, Austin is exploring public perceptions of nuclear energy in Illinois and its potential role in achieving the state's clean energy goals. His research interests span energy policy, public attitudes toward nuclear technologies, and the integration of nuclear energy into a sustainable energy mix.
