Team

Steph is a social entrepreneur and community builder with operational experience in the U.S., Middle East, and South Asia. She was selected as an Echoing Green Climate Fellow, a Global Good Fund Fellow, a Grist 50 Fixer, a Kia Revisionary, and an Acumen Global Fellow, all of which recognize emerging leaders in social enterprise. She previously led sales and marketing innovation initiatives at d.light India, a solar products company powering areas without reliable electricity; spearheaded Acumen's renewable energy sector investment strategy in Pakistan; developed Middle East policy as the youngest Director at the White House National Security Council; and managed field operations in seven states for the first Obama presidential campaign. She holds a B.A. from Yale, a Master in Public Affairs (MPA) with distinction from Princeton, and an MBA from MIT, where she earned a certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. At MIT, she received the Paul and Daily Soros Fellowship, Legatum Fellowship, Public Service Fellowship, and Dean's Fellowship.

Responsible for finances, product development, solar developer relationships, and financial inclusion. Sandhya began her career in Barclays’ investment banking division in New York and London, advising on and executing public equity transactions for Technology, Media and Telecom companies, and was also deeply involved in Barclays Philanthropy. Her volunteer work included Endeavor, Women’s World Banking, and Barclays’ Social Innovation Fund. During graduate school, Sandhya worked at Buen Power Peru, a for-profit social enterprise that distributes solar lamps and water heaters to off-grid communities in Peru. She holds a BBA from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management, where she received the Sustainability Certificate.

Lauren leads Solstice’s low-income inclusion program, bringing more than a decade of nonprofit management experience. Previously, she worked in community development and financial inclusion at LISC, delivering creative financing solutions to underserved U.S. communities through New Markets Tax Credits. Prior to that, she served as the Manager of Direct Marketing and Data Analytics at Oxfam and as a nonprofit consultant for M+R Strategic Services. Lauren holds a BA from Tufts University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern. Outside of her work to make our world more just and sustainable, Lauren enjoys traveling, cooking for friends and family, digital photography, and reading epic fantasy series.

Taro leads Solstice’s community outreach efforts, helping to connect people with solar projects in their area. He has years of experience working directly with customers, both at large corporations, such as EF - Education First, and at small startups like AnyRoad. Originally from the Boston area, he attended Colby College, where he majored in International Studies and minored in Business and Japanese. He now turns his career towards fighting climate change, an issue that he cares deeply about. Taro and his fiance recently spent seven months traveling around the world, volunteering, building a travel website, and living out of carry-on bags! He loves being outdoors, and is a traveler, sports enthusiast, bike-commuter and quasi-vegetarian.

Sarah leads Solstice’s business development team. Previously, she worked at McMaster-Carr in their management rotational program and held internships at EnerNOC and Forbes Magazine. Immediately before joining Solstice, Sarah and her partner took a 5-month, whirlwind trip through South America and Europe. Sarah holds a BA from Harvard University in Earth and Planetary Sciences and an MBA from the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago. She’s passionate about social impact and fighting climate change and is thrilled to be working at Solstice where she can deliver on those values. Beyond work, Sarah loves traveling, keeping up on Earth history developments, baking, painting, hiking, and hanging out with her dog, Geo.

Ryan has over 15 years of experience within the Enterprise Software Engineering field. He taught software engineering on a state college level, and has worked for and managed teams of engineers within various multi-million dollar startups, developing IoT systems and modern application architectures. His current career focus lies in solving three key issues facing humanity: renewable energy, food supply and access to clean water. Away from work, Ryan loves going on walks and watching movies with his daughter and son.

Ian manages Solstice’s internal operations, which includes anything and everything inside the organization that supports the team and helps Solstice fulfill its mission. Prior to Solstice, Ian held operations and sales roles at technology companies including PowerDash and Cambridge Computer Services. He also participated in Solstice’s Fellowship program during the summer of 2016 as a Policy and Business Strategy Fellow. Ian received his MBA from Boston University and Bachelor of Arts from Oberlin College. Outside of Solstice, Ian is actively involved in Net Impact Boston, and is an avid guitarist and concert goer.

Matteo has always been passionate about the environment, but never found a way to get involved until he joined Solstice. After graduating from Emmanuel College in 2016 with a degree in Psychology and Neuroscience, he began exploring jobs that would allow him to do what he does best: connecting with others. Since graduation, he has continued his summer tradition of caddying at The Country Club in Brookline, while using his winters to travel. These activities are his two biggest passions, and when he’s lucky, he gets to do both at the same time.

Nick graduated from Wesleyan University in 2009 with a degree in History. After graduating he worked overseas as an English teacher for a year and spent the following nine years in non-profit fundraising. He decided to join Solstice as a community outreach associate because he believes everyone can do their part in protecting the environment. When he isn't working, he spends his time cooking with friends and family, or travelling someplace new.

Tim recently graduated with a Masters in Sustainability and Environmental Management from the Harvard University extension school where his coursework included classes in social entrepreneurialism, sustainable product design, international development, and sustainability leadership. During his studies, Tim developed a strong interest in social enterprises that are employing innovative concepts to address social and environmental challenges. Prior to graduate school, Tim pursued his passion for the outdoors through a variety of positions which included work as a ski patroller, backcountry ski guide, naturalist and educator, sales and inventory manager at a surf film startup, and EMT. He has also founded a location-based lifestyle clothing and apparel brand. Outside of work, Tim enjoys surfing, sailing, reading, and exploring new places – both in New England and further abroad.

Nishon works with the platform team to create a seamless experience between external stakeholders and engineering efforts. He has 10+ years of experience working at startups in disruptive industries, including Crypto, Sports Betting, and Esports. Originally from New Hampshire, he attended Wheaton College, where he majored in Economics. He is passionate about marrying new technologies to old/emerging industries. During his free time, he enjoys golfing, traveling, and watching Lamar Jackson break records.

Avni handles programmatic opportunities in the Eastern US, contributes to Solstice's data analysis research projects, and helps maintain relationships with Solstice's wide network of community solar and low-income inclusion policy advocates. Her experiences at the University of Oregon as a Graduate Teaching Fellow and a participant in her union shaped her desire to contribute to a just transition towards a zero-carbon society. When she isn't at work, you can find Avni biking around Cambridge, struggling through French literature, or baking bread with her perpetual supply of overripe bananas.

Eli works to make energy equity a reality for all by leading research initiatives, engaging with stakeholders, and building long-lasting community partnerships. He’s passionate about environmental sustainability and is excited to work towards meeting Solstice’s mission. Before joining Solstice, Eli worked as an environmental planner where he helped communities to enhance their resilience to climate change. He holds a BA in Global Environmental Studies and an MA in Community Development and planning, both from Clark University. After work you might have luck finding Eli planning the next ski trip, playing ultimate frisbee, or swinging in a hammock.

Moh has over ten years of professional experience in branding, communications strategies, and business development for for-profit and nonprofit organizations. He manages the development of Solstice's digital platform, and develops our visual communications strategy. Moh participated in the Middle East Web Design Awards in 2009, where he was ranked as the #1 Best Rich Internet Applications Designer in the Middle East and North Africa.

Edward has ten years of experience working as web developer for nonprofit organizations on issues of renewable energy, energy efficiency, water management and recycling, and is passionate about both technology and the environment. He holds a B.S. in Computer Sciences from Dr. Jose Matias Delgado University in San Salvador and has experience with several programming and database technologies. When not at work, he enjoys traveling, working out at the gym, and spending time with family and friends.

Joe, a graduate from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is a jack of all trades and master of some. He has experience ranging from Fortune 500 Companies to startups. He joined Solstice to focus on making great software that helps empower people. In his free time you can find him learning a new subject or picking up a new skill.

CeCe is a Digital Marketing Coordinator with a passion for color-coding, list-making, and continuous improvement. From roles such as summer camp counselor in New Hampshire and volunteering at the New England Aquarium, CeCe has always had a respect for the natural world and a desire to preserve its beauty. Prior to joining Solstice she worked at the MIT Energy Initiative in an operations role. In her spare time she enjoys playing tennis, biking around Boston, petting any dog she encounters, and long odds cooking experiments.

Scott shares Solstice’s mission with the world through blog and media content. Prior to joining our team, he worked as a researcher and writer at Harvard Kennedy School, where he wrote about government innovations in emerging technologies. Scott joined Solstice to apply his passion for writing and his belief in the strength of communities to a powerful movement for environmental and social good. A lifelong swimmer and outdoor enthusiast, he can be found diving into the ocean, admiring local wildlife, climbing trees, or writing Frost-esque poetry.

David brings 30 years of experience working in the solar industry to his role as Solstice Community Outreach Coordinator. The Solstice mission of putting affordable clean energy within reach of every American echoes David's passion to help alleviate our dependence on fossil fuels. Beginning in fourth grade when his class was taught about the greenhouse effect, he has devoted his effort into promoting renewable energy. Living in New York, Arizona and Montana, as well as traveling as far north as the Arctic Circle and as far south as Guatemala, has helped David develop a keen sense of the importance of cooperation with one another to ensure we transition to a sustainable and renewable energy economy. David continues this effort to be ever mindful of the needs of others, while also enjoying quality time with his family hiking, canoeing and appreciating this remarkable planet we all inhabit.

Sarah joins Solstice as a partnership coordinator in the Greater New York City area. She spent a lot of time outside growing up, leading her to begin her career in the health and wellness field. Sarah has always had a passion for taking care of the environment, and after moving back to the East Coast from beloved San Francisco, it was time to combine her commitment to helping individuals live a healthier lifestyle with her support for making a difference for the planet. If she's not working, Sarah is either running, out in nature with her dog, reading, antiquing, finding new music, or spending time with loved ones.

Alex builds and manages Solstice’s channel partnerships, expanding the networks of people enjoying the benefits of community solar. Alex has founded and worked for a variety of mission-driven organizations, including Amir, a garden education nonprofit; Firestarter, a facilitator of intercommunal support by and for refugee and migrant communities; and DK Fishing, a Somaliland-based social enterprise focused on expanding the reach and impact of the country’s nascent fishing industry. He can most often be found on his bike, at the library, or in a park.

Ben comes from a combined background of working in music, nonprofit fundraising, and technology. At Solstice, he helps to educate residents about joining community solar programs to both mitigate climate change and invest in sustainable technology. In his free time, you'll likely find him playing music, reading science fiction, or watching a soccer game.

In her undergraduate studies, Johanna found a way to merge two of her greatest interests --  people and their environments -- by graduating with a degree in Human Dimensions of Climate Change from the University of Maine. Now as a member of Solstice’s outreach team, she has the opportunity to address climate change on a community level. With a natural inclination toward human connection, she’s excited to interact with community members and help provide access to clean energy. In her free time, you can catch her scouting out hidden gems at thrift shops, practicing yoga, or exploring all the wonders of the natural world with friends.

Jayne joined the outreach team at Solstice to be able to combine her love for the environment with community engagement and organizing. Although she spent most of her recent years studying and conducting research in the Boston area, Jayne came on board after obtaining her Master's degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of Geneva in Switzerland. When not enrolling new households in solar, you can find Jayne hiking, running, taking care of her plants, or baking.

Zack joins the Business Development team at Solstice as the next step in his endeavor to fight climate change. With a BA in Sociology and Environmental Studies from Boston College, Zack spent the majority of his time rowing for the BC Men’s Crew Team and organizing rallies as a member of Climate Justice at Boston College. Prior to joining the Solstice team, Zack worked as a Deck Hand and then Captain for Bang’s Island Mussels, a leading sustainable aquaculture farm. In his free time, Zack can be found in the mountains, on the ocean, or somewhere in-between, always chasing the next adrenaline rush!

Sam is passionate about all things green. Sam started writing at a local Boston news station, but chose to pivot her career to create more social and environmental impact. A graduate of Boston University with a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism, Sam brings her communication skills to the role of 'right-hand woman' to Solstice co-founder and CEO Steph Speirs. Outside of the office, you can find her hiking, doing yoga in the park, or sharing ways to live a cleaner, greener life!

Katie has cultivated her love of the environment through personal and professional excursions around the North East and beyond. While studying at Princeton University, Katie completed a thesis researching the relationship between climate change variables and infectious disease. In addition, she worked for a variety of community-oriented health organizations focused on grassroots engagement efforts around topics such as HIV/AIDS and palliative end of life care. After graduating in 2018 with a degree in Molecular Biology and a minor in Global Health and Health policy, Katie spent her first post-college year hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and working as a Wilderness Guide in the mountains of Maine and New Hampshire. As a Customer Success Associate with Solstice, Katie is excited about connecting with individuals who share her passion for environmental justice and joining a team dedicated to making a lasting and positive impact on the planet. In her spare time, you can find Katie experimenting with fermentation, playing board games, exploring the many green spaces around Boston or planning her next trip to the mountains!

Coming to Solstice from Zambia, Chilochibi (Chilo) analyses data and designs and implements research methodologies targeted at innovating inclusion approaches for low- to moderate-income customers.  He possesses a four years track record of efforts directed towards advancing socioeconomic development, gender equity, and health through research and data analytics obtained while working for Jhpiego, Concern Worldwide, and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. Out of work, he enjoys listening to music and taking walks.

Sara recently graduated from Northeastern University with a major in Environmental Studies. During her time at Northeastern, she interned at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and Oxfam America. These internships gave her insights into mission-driven government and nonprofit work. Meanwhile, her academic experiences allowed her to explore her interests at the intersection of climate change and social justice. As the low- to moderate-income inclusion fellow, Sara will research ways to increase energy equity and renewable energy adoption in marginalized communities. When Sara is not working at Solstice, you can find her writing poetry, rock climbing, or making up a recipe on the fly.

Geo and Willow play a vital role in Solstice's work. With Geo sporting a neon orange harness and the signature bell on Willow's collar, they both set a high standard for fashion in the workplace. Whether they're vigilantly guarding the office doors or providing mid-workday cuddles, Rima and Geo are a key part of Solsticers' positivity and productivity!