Interviewed February 2009
Evelyn's career began in the classroom, then moved to the business of real estate. Not completely satisfied, she decided to explore her interests and came to UNC Kenan-Flagler to study marketing and entrepreneurship. It was here that Evelyn learned the value of social and environmental considerations to a company's overall strategy. "I was fortunate to have classmates that were passionate about sustainability and such a supportive Sustainable Enterprise program to embrace their ideas. It was during my time at Kenan-Flagler that these issues came to the forefront of my career search."
After graduation, Evelyn landed at Greenfire Development, a real estate firm devoted to revitalizing downtown Durham with an unwavering focus on sustainability. "It was inspiring to find a company that incorporates environmental sustainability decisions into daily operations. At Greenfire, it was just part of the culture. It was an incredible learning environment, and it sparked my imagination for the intersection between business and sustainability. I associate many of the lessons I carry forward with the time I spent at Kenan-Flagler and Greenfire."
In 2008, Evelyn founded Springleaf Strategies, a marketing consulting firm in the real estate and sustainability
industries. She works with companies that have sustainability-focused products or services, as well as those
interested in integrating sustainability into their daily operations. "I wanted to work with companies that
are taking a holistic approach to how they operate — including the services or products they offer. It's to
the point where it's no longer about being a nice guy or doing something that's different or cool. It's
just good business. It enhances profitability, and it will help companies remain competitive in a changing economy."
Evelyn's Picks
Sustainability Reading Recommendations:
Evelyn recommends "Mid-Course Correction: Toward a Sustainable Enterprise: The Interface Model" by Ray Anderson; "Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things" by William McDonough and Michael Braungart; and "Deep Economy: The Wealth of Communities and the Durable Future" by Bill McKibben.
Links:
Springleaf Strategies
Article: "Springleaf Strategies Executive Second Marketing Professional in the Triangle to Earn LEED Accreditation"