BCC announced that Elena Perez will assume the position of Green Action Challenge Project Director, joining the External Relations team to manage sustainability initiatives on campus, including the sizable grant sponsored by the Bronx Economic Development Corporation and funded by the NY Power Authority to reduce the College’s environmental footprint and build its Green Economy workforce development program.

Perez comes to BCC with an interdisciplinary background in environmental strategic planning, project management, policy development and community engagement for a diverse set of clients. Most recently, from 2019-2024, she served as the Environmental Resilience Lead for the World Economic Forum.  

 “I am always interested in how interconnected policy, nature, economics and people are,” Perez said. “And, specifically, I like to think about how this linkage can benefit communities, particularly in marginalized communities, which often are impacted [by climate change] the most.”   

 Perez grew up in Southern California and was influenced at a young age by her mom, who paid close attention to the correlation between air pollution and poor health. Her mom died of cancer just before Perez entered college, but left her with an appreciation for the ocean and a passion for surfing.  

 Perez earned her undergraduate degree in American Literature, but grew a love for science and ultimately went back to further her education in science and math. At the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, she gained research experience aboard research vessels, underwater as a research diver, and in research laboratories – all while waitressing in order to make ends meet.     

 Collaborating closely with Physical Plant Services (PPS), the Chemistry Department, and Workforce Development, Perez is working to align BCC’s sustainability practices with the goals outlined in the grant. To date, the team is in Phase II of the low-flow toilet initiative and has installed recycling bins across campus. Additionally, Perez will support initiatives such as the solar panel pilot training project and is currently working on establishing a composting program, as well as a partnership with the Department of Environmental Protection to bring green infrastructure to campus.