WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS - Key Persons
The MCC welcomed Heather Navarro as the new director on January 28, 2022. Heather most recently served as an Alderperson in the City of St. Louis where she spearheaded a host of climate-forward legislation, including the first building energy performance standard in the Midwest, solar-ready requirements, and an EV-ready building code, among many other accomplishments. Heather previously served from 2013-2020 as the Executive Director of the Missouri Coalition for the Environment, a state-wide environmental advocacy organization. In that role, she was actively engaged with the Mississippi River Collaborative, the Missouri Clean Energy Coalition, and many other collaborative efforts.
A Washington University graduate, Navarro earned both a bachelor's degree in environmental studies in Arts & Sciences in 2001 and a JD from the School of Law in 2008. Her legal practice was primarily with a public interest law firm representing clients in racial and disability discrimination matters.
In addition to this experience, Heather was a fellow with the Public Leaders for Inclusion Council in 2021 and has served on the Missouri Municipal League Board as well as a variety of other local, state, and national boards.
Job Titles:
- Programs / Operations Manager
Kevin Hahn-Petruso helps support and advance the work of the MCC as the Programs/Operations Manager for Washington University's International Center for Energy Environment and Sustainability (InCEES). Prior to joining Washington University, he worked as the Policy Manager for Trailnet, a St. Louis-based sustainable transportation nonprofit, where he led advocacy initiatives and coalitions focused on safety for people walking, biking, and using transit. Kevin has a background in nonprofit management, communications, and development. He began his career in state government and public engagement, working as a staffer in the Illinois State Senate.