Sustainable Jersey, a nonprofit that provides tools, training and financial incentives to support community sustainability programs, has awarded John Henry, NJSBA’s I-STEAM and sustainable school specialist, the Sustainable Hero Award for the month of August.
Each month, the Sustainability Hero award recognizes and honors those whose passion shines through and inspires others in the field of sustainability. Sustainable Jersey identifies one individual who has significantly contributed to the advancement of sustainability initiatives in collaboration with a municipal or school green team and/or by serving on a Sustainable Jersey Task Force.
“[John Henry] has devoted the last fifteen years to advancing sustainability across a broad range of educational venues from K-12 schools, colleges and universities, government agencies and state departments of education. John values collaboration and is known for his determination and drive” said Sustainable Jersey in a press release.
John Henry is recognized as a leading expert in sustainability in New Jersey. He has served as NJSBA’s I-STEAM and sustainable schools specialist since 2013. Members of local boards of education know him for the training workshops he has developed and conducted, and the time he has spent with school districts to promote healthier schools at lower operating costs. He was instrumental in developing the partnership between NJSBA and Sustainable Jersey that resulted in Sustainable Jersey for Schools, the popular STEAM Tank Challenge, and the New Jersey Green Program of Study pilot. He has also served as a a board member for the Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education and the U.S. Green Building Council New Jersey Chapter and is currently serving as the co-chair for the Green Schools Committee for the U.S. Green Building Council- NJ Chapter.
“We tip our hat to John Henry for this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Lawrence S. Feinsod, NJSBA executive director. “John has dedicated himself to communicating the critical importance of sustainability to the board members, educators and students of our state. Due to his efforts, many within the education community are now realizing the benefits of a sustainable environment.”