Welcome to the March/April edition of Phoenix Focus—The Green Issue.
Spring. It is a time of transition. So what better time—naturally—to introduce the next evolution of Phoenix Focus?
We’ve taken into account your ongoing feedback to create a more interactive online experience as well as a more visual layout for the printable version. Another big change you’ll see—we’ve created a whole new section: The Buzz. Alumni on the Move used to list alumni promotions, but The Buzz has the latest news on alumni promotions plus awards, new businesses, books published and degrees earned. I hope you like it, and be sure to send me your accomplishments to share in an upcoming issue.
This issue also celebrates the new roots taking hold at this time of year with a focus on the environment. Green from the Inside Out (pg. 10) explores how companies across the country are finding ways to make their businesses green, while here at University of Phoenix, our commitment to the environment permeates our culture (pg. 14).
Your fellow alumni also are carving out unique careers for themselves in this green space: Bill Soest, MBA 2006, who is featured on the cover, started a business that evaluates energy loss in older homes and buildings (pg. 22). Cindy Hill, MBA 2008, helped Proctor and Gamble save over one million dollars in one year alone through energy saving projects (pg. 24). Jay Johnson, MBA 2000, is working to expand solar power as a renewable energy source (pg. 26). Mike Bixenman, DBA 2007, has created green solvents for removing residue from electronic circuits (pg. 28). And, if you are just starting out in your career or looking to make a career change, we’ve rounded up information on seven new green-collar jobs (pg. 7).
Oh, and in the spirit of change, I cut my hair last week and donated it to Locks of Love, an organization that makes wigs from donated hair for cancer patients. You can learn more about the organization at LocksofLove.org. Since it doesn’t take me nearly as long to blow dry my hair—I guess that’s a decision that was even good for the environment too!
