Natalie Kataoka

Natalie Kataoka received her BS in Environmental Science from the University of Oregon in 2022, with minors in Biology and Public Policy. During her time as an undergraduate, she worked for the Sustainable Cities Institute helping advise Oregon cities on their infrastructure and development. She also worked as a technician for Dr. Lauren Hallett's Lab, contributing to conservation and coexistence research on California native plant species. In her first year with EPM, Natalie was a Climate Action Fellow with the UCD Sustainability office, where she started the groundwork for the campus's first climate action plan. This involved surveying staff and students on their perception of UCD's preparedness for climate events, and developing a climate action framework. Natalie wanted to contribute to student life and foster a sense of community within the program, so she joined the Diversity Committee and Social Committee. Natalie earned a specialization in Politics and the Policy Process. She also participated in the US Department of Energy’s Collegiate Geothermal Competition in collaboration with several of her peers.