A group of six ACE alumni, representing a diverse range of years and programs, were among the 19 individuals celebrated at the annual Duke Climate Commitment Celebration. This event recognized outstanding leadership in climate and sustainability efforts, highlighting those who exemplify the goals of Duke’s Climate Commitment. They are:
- Alayna Burns – ACE in Colorado 2022
- Ellie Coleman – ACE in Colorado 2022
- Sydney Tomlak – ACE in Costa Rica 2024
- Zizi Newhard – ACE in Panama 2024
- Ethan Grimminger – ACE in Panama 2024
- Sean Morello – ACE in South Africa 2024
Alayna Burns, ACE in Colorado 2022, dedicated her time in Colorado to promoting global conservation and environmental stewardship. Alayna is the founder of the Duke Sustainable Athletics Group (DSAG), a student-led organization focused on driving sustainable projects within Duke’s athletic community. The group, which includes fellow ACE participants Sydney Tomlak, Ellie Coleman, Ethan Grimminger, Sean Morello, and ZiZi Newhard, continues to lead impactful sustainability initiatives on campus.
Burns was also honored as one of the two recipients of the 2024 Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award, which included a $2,500 grant. Alayna chose to donate the award funds to Eco Athletes, a national nonprofit fighting the climate crisis. Despite having graduated, Burns’ work continues to inspire Duke’s student-athletes. DSAG remains active with initiatives like Green Week at Training Table, which includes events such as Waste Sorting Awareness, Sustainability Trivia, and Compost Tracking, along with Sporting Events focused on sustainability such as the Bleed Blue, Live Green Field Hockey Climate Game where an equipment drive was hosted to collect donations for the Boys & Girls Club of Durham.
These alumni exemplify how the transformative experiences of the ACE program continue to fuel their commitment to civic engagement—on and off Duke’s campus.