Staff and Board

The Sustain Dane team is based in Madison, WI, and serves all of Dane County. Our board members represent a diverse group of businesses, nonprofits, and local governments that believe in a sustainable future.

Meet Our Team

Claire Oleksiak

Executive Director

As Executive Director Claire (she/her) aims to accelerate a sustainable environment and economy that benefits all members of our community. Claire is passionate about innovation, collaboration, and social impact. Prior to joining Sustain Dane, she worked as the Community Services Manager for the City of Madison Parks Division. In that role, she facilitated partnerships with public and private organizations, managed community facilities, and implemented the Connecting Children to Nature Initiative. Claire also worked on local community and economic development in Washington, DC for 10 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and a master’s degree from Oxford University. She grew up in Madison, WI. Reach out to Claire about strategic partnerships, your thoughts on sustainability opportunities and challenges, and any other questions related to Sustain Dane overall.

Samantha Wordette

Program Manager

Sam (she/her) is dedicated to fostering learning, connection, and collaboration through Sustain Dane’s programs and partnerships. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Environmental Studies from Butler University. At Sustain Dane, she develops and manages programs including our Accelerate Sustainability Workshops, one-on-one assistance, and tracking of our partners’ sustainable impacts. Previously she worked at Exact Sciences as a hydroponic farmer and implemented sustainability solutions within the culinary department. With a passion for food sustainability and circular economies, Sam is committed to creating impactful experiences that inspire action. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Madison’s outdoors, playing pickleball, and discovering new local restaurants. Reach out to Sam for more information on engaging with sustainability at your organization.

Frankie Fosdick

Efficiency Navigator

Frankie (he/him) aims to drive work to address housing resilience, equity, and climate change. Frankie has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Southern New Hampshire University. Prior to working at Sustain Dane, Frankie worked at Special Olympics and is forever grateful for the experience and all the athletes that he got to know so well. Outside of Sustain Dane, Frankie enjoys spending time outside with his dogs, friends, and family and watching/playing sports. Reach out to Frankie for any questions regarding Efficiency Navigator.

Sonali Bhikha

Program Coordinator

Sonali (she/her) is passionate about the intersection of collaboration, sustainability, and equity. She is dedicated to fostering inclusive and community-driven climate solutions. Her past experience focused on environmental justice programming in Duluth, MN. At Sustain Dane, Sonali coordinates programs that build connections and inspire action, including the Sustainable Breakfast Series, All Around Dane County, volunteer initiatives, educating youth in schools, and manages the Powerful Teen Leaders program. She also leads participant outreach and develops messaging that highlights community stories and program impact. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sustainability Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Sonali is especially excited to advance sustainability efforts that center equity and justice through collective action. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading, and exploring Madison’s parks and trails. Reach out to Sonali for any questions regarding our programs.

Job Opportunities

You can play a critical role in helping Sustain Dane achieve our vision of a thriving and connected community with a sustainable environment and economy we are proud to pass on to future generations. If we aren’t currently hiring you may send your resume to hello@sustaindane.org to be considered for future job opportunities.

We are hiring for a Development and Partnership Manager.

The position works to expand the network of businesses, organizations, and individuals involved in and supporting sustainability. They are lead on member and sponsor relations, retention, and recruitment. This position writes grants and fulfills reporting requirements for grants, as well as leads our individual giving campaigns. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting Friday, September 11 until the position is filled. Learn more and apply here.

Sustain Dane is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

“Working at Sustain Dane has allowed me to make a genuine and noticeable impact in my own community. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role is seeing that impact firsthand, whether it’s running into community partners I’ve collaborated with or seeing projects we’ve helped bring to life. My time at Sustain Dane has not only given me the opportunity to give back to my community but has also deepened my appreciation for the people and partnerships that make it such a vibrant place. In this role, I’ve been able to channel my passion for sustainability and the environment into meaningful action while learning from an inspiring Executive Director and working alongside a collaborative, supportive team. Being the Development and Partnership Manager with Sustain Dane has provided the foundation for deciding and reaching my next step.”

Spencer Bierman

Development and Partnership Manager, 2023-2026