ASU alum turns passion into global climate impact

Stormy Light’s journey into sustainability didn’t begin in a lab or a classroom.

It began on dusty trails, around campfires and with curious questions about the natural world.

Raised in Arizona, Light went on annual family camping trips along the West Coast, where she developed a deep connection to the environment from a young age. That connection, combined with a growing awareness of climate change, led her to pursue a degree in sustainability from Arizona State University's School of Sustainability, a unit within the College of Global Futures.

Throughout her time at ASU, Light had the chance to take on bold ideas and apply her skills to real-world sustainability challenges, both locally and globally.

One of her most memorable experiences was studying sustainable urban design in the Netherlands, where she gained valuable insights into climate-resilient cities.

She also participated in a hands-on study abroad experience in Baja California, Mexico, led by Jesse Senko, an assistant professor in the School of Ocean Futures. There, she collaborated with conservationists and local fishing communities to visit fishing camps, monitor sea turtles and explore sustainable approaches to fishery management.

“It opened my eyes to the deeply human side of sustainability — far beyond just science or policy,” Light said.

ASU also became a place where she could express her creativity. She interviewed sustainable business leaders, created podcasts and collaborated with fellow students on TikTok to capture different perspectives on climate issues.

Outside the classroom, Light expanded her impact through leadership in student organizations.

As a leader in the United Nations Association at ASU, she ran resource drives, led sustainability campaigns and launched petitions calling for better sustainable urban design in Phoenix. She also co-created the SDG Ambassador Program in partnership with a global nonprofit in China, a fellowship that gave ASU members the tools and support to develop projects aligned with Sustainable Development Goals alongside a global partner.

These foundations and experiences prepared her for impactful roles after graduation. She currently works as a junior transportation planner at Jacobs, a global leader in engineering, infrastructure and technology. The company partners with governments, businesses and communities to deliver solutions addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

“My background in sustainability and my education at ASU’s College of Global Futures gave me the systems thinking and data analysis skills I use every day. From understanding how transportation impacts public health and emissions to incorporating stakeholder feedback and equity into project design, I’m proud to contribute to work that supports more connected, livable and low-carbon communities,” she said.

In addition to her work at Jacobs, Light currently serves as  co-director of social media for Climate Cardinals, a youth-led nonprofit that translates climate information into over 100 languages with the support of more than 16,000 global volunteers. Through her role, she aims to break down language barriers and empower young people from all backgrounds to take action against climate change.

“I joined the team because I saw how language can be a barrier to climate action — and how digital media can break down those barriers,” Light said.

“I manage a team that produces educational content and partnerships with organizations like UNEP, Google, Patagonia and The Nature Conservancy.”

Looking ahead, she envisions using her storytelling and strategic communication skills to drive meaningful and sustainable change.

“My goal is to lead large-scale campaigns and initiatives that inspire behavioral change, influence policy and promote equity across communities. I hope to rewrite the narrative around climate and sustainability — making it bold, inclusive and hopeful,” Light said. 

Light’s journey shows that meaningful change begins with curiosity and grows through action. She also credits ASU for making everything feel possible and for helping her find the community that gave her the courage to turn dreams into plans.