Aaron Durnbaugh

Director of Sustainability, Loyola University Chicago

Aaron Noble Durnbaugh, Director of Sustainability, supports the 17,000 students and 4,000 faculty and staff across Loyola’s campuses and academic centers in creating the most sustainable and transformative education experience possible. Working across the curriculum, culture and campuses of Loyola, Durnbaugh builds innovation and efficiency into the University’s programs and student experience focusing on climate action, water protection, and mission-driven social justice. He currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Chicago Wilderness Alliance, Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning’s (CMAP) Environment and Natural Resources Working Committee, the Illinois Green Alliance’s Drawdown Steering Committee, and is the interim Chair for the Advisory Committee for the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education's Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS).

Previously, he served as the Deputy Commissioner leading Chicago Department of Environment's Natural Resources and Water Quality Division (NRWQ). The Department of Environment was the lead agency developing and implementing the Chicago Climate Action Plan. NRWQ educated the public on climate change issues through the Chicago Center for Green Technology, Chicago Conservation Corps, and Greencorps Chicago. NRWQ created mitigation opportunities through open space protection in the Calumet region, green infrastructure financing and various urban forestry projects. During his time in City government, Durnbaugh oversaw the City of Chicago’s climate adaptation strategy engaging stakeholders in built environment, public health and the natural environment. He holds a Master's Degree in Geography and Environmental Studies and is a LEED™ accredited professional.

He holds a Master's Degree in Geography and Environmental Studies and is a LEED™ accredited professional.