Faculty Spotlight: Fernando Ortiz
As a sustainability designer and community organizer, Fernando Ortiz will teach sustainability management this fall.
Adjunct Professor at Columbia University Sustainability Management Plan, Fernando Ortiz is a Dominican-American sustainable designer and borough president for the New York City Economic Development Corporation, where he manages government and community relations. Previously, he was an urban planner in the Bronx.
Ortiz began his career as a community organizer for The Point Community Development Corporation, where he worked in environmental justice in the South Bronx and studied on four continents. His experience includes working with Native American tribes and he specializes in community engagement. He has been involved in several urban planning/design projects within New York City.
Ortiz holds a master’s degree in sustainable management from Columbia University, a master’s degree in sustainable design from the Boston School of Architecture, and a bachelor’s degree from Pratt Institute. As a Bronx native, he is passionate about elevating the needs and voices of Bronx people throughout the city and globally.
What initially motivated you to pursue the field of sustainability?
I have always been interested in the environment and how it shapes our society. I am fascinated by environmental justice and how to not only make our environment healthier, but improve the lives of people who are marginalized and disadvantaged by infrastructure and the fossil fuel economy. Its interdisciplinary approach allows me to explore various industries; design, waste, energy and more.
What drew you to Columbia School of Climate and Professional Studies (SPS)?
I graduated from SPS’ Sustainability Management program in 2019 and was drawn to SPS for the opportunity to study Sustainability in New York City and a top US university. Colombia offers many opportunities to engage with sustainability issues on a global scale and to collaborate with industry professionals.
What courses will you be teaching this fall, and what excites you the most?
I will be teaching Sustainability Management in the SUMA course, which students usually take in their first semester and is one of the few required SUMA courses. I am excited to bring my nonprofit and public sector experience and my passion and dedication to community engagement into this program, especially in underserved communities, and to expose students to New York City.
What changes do you hope to see in the future of sustainability?
I would like to see more sustainability work focused on improving public health and public spaces – putting marginalized communities and their well-being first and elevating their narratives. I would like to see more BIPOC practitioners and more stories highlighted.
What advice do you have for students pursuing sustainable careers?
Explore different areas of sustainability, expose yourself to different communities and places, travel, participate in extracurricular projects and initiatives, and make as many connections as possible. Also, don’t be afraid to connect with practitioners in the field – ask questions and ask for help. Finally, I recommend that students always put people first.
