From beetle collections to the courtroom: This sustainability grad is using the law to protect the planet
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2026 graduates.
Ava Claus arrives at graduation with an academic footprint wider than most. The double major in sustainability and English literature, with a minor in biological sciences, leaves ASU with published research, an honors thesis and a clear plan to channel it all through the law.
Born and raised in Arizona, Claus always wanted to pursue an environmental degree close to home. After meeting Barrett, the Honors College tour guide who was studying sustainability, she changed her major that same day. That instinct paid off. Claus went on to build a standout academic record focused on sustainable ecosystems at the School of Sustainability.
As a student, Claus worked at ASU's Natural History Collections and the NEON Biorepository, where she co-authored research published in the journal Oikos on long-term sampling methodologies for ground beetle communities.
Alongside her research, Claus took classes at the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law and interned at the Arizona Attorney General's Office, experiences that drew her toward the intersection of sustainability and policy.
That interdisciplinary focus took shape in her honors thesis, in which Claus examined the global governance of illegal fishing and how the legal system can support sustainable change and environmental protection.
Claus believes informed government action is essential to addressing the climate crisis. She says that when it comes to environmental protection, "the faster we act, the more lives and biodiversity we protect."
After graduation, Claus will continue her studies at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. Long term, she hopes to become a federal judge hearing cases on environmental regulation to help protect the future of the planet.
Ahead of graduation, we asked Claus about her time at ASU.
Question: What was your "aha moment" for studying sustainability?
Answer: I initially wanted to study biology or environmental science. While on a tour of Barrett, the Honors College, I met a tour guide who was majoring in sustainability and said she loved the curriculum, professors and community. I went home and switched my major to sustainability, and I have loved it ever since.
Q: What's something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: While working at ASU's Natural History Collections, I got a crash course on the plants, insects and mammals that are local to Arizona. Learning about the species names and characteristics of the flora and fauna I've grown up seeing every day gave me a greater appreciation for the natural world that we often take for granted.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: Dr. (Peter) Schmidt, my Human Event professor from my freshman year in Barrett, teaches a class on Zen Buddhism. He explained the importance of meditation for clearing the mind and improving focus and clarity of thought. Sitting in silence every once in a while is really helpful for de-stressing, and I've carried that lesson with me ever since.
Q: What's the best piece of advice you'd give to those still in school?
A: Learn as much as you can! While in college I pursued a double major in sustainability and English literature with a minor in biological sciences. I took courses on everything from genetics to Zen Buddhism to Shakespeare. College is such a unique place because it's one of the only times in your life when you have access to such a wide range of information and professors who are experts within their fields. Take advantage!
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