Jim Newman, known as the “Dean of Green,” is a renowned expert in energy efficiency and green building technology with over five decades of industry experience. As the Managing Partner of Newman Consulting Group, LLC, he has been instrumental in helping building owners, architects, and engineers implement sustainable solutions that reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and enhance occupant well-being. A sought-after international speaker and ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer, Jim has trained professionals worldwide on energy conservation, retrofitting existing buildings, and high-performance facility design. Holding multiple certifications, including Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and LEED AP BD+C, he was the first in Michigan to earn ASHRAE’s Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP) designation. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from BOMA Detroit. Jim’s unwavering commitment to sustainability continues to drive innovation in the built environment, shaping a more energy-efficient future.

Denis Irambona is a seasoned international construction consultant with over 20 years of experience leading high-impact infrastructure projects across fragile and high-risk contexts. A trusted advisor to governments and global development agencies, he specializes in climate-resilient design, donor compliance, and strategic project governance—transforming infrastructure into sustainable, community-focused solutions.

Jonathan Freiden is a visionary entrepreneur and seasoned CEO with over 30 years of experience leading innovation across environmental biotech, clean energy, and global retail sectors. As founder of Biomora, he is pioneering nature-based solutions to remediate contaminated ecosystems and advance climate resilience through cutting-edge plant technologies. With a proven track record in startup leadership, strategic growth, and cross-sector collaboration, Jonathan combines deep expertise in sustainability with a passion for mentoring and community impact. He actively serves on multiple nonprofit boards and seeks to leverage his extensive leadership background to help mission-driven organizations scale and succeed.

Marianne Voss is a seasoned ESG and governance leader with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of law, finance, and sustainable business strategy. As Managing Director and Chief ESG Officer at Webster Equity Partners, she oversees the firm’s $9B ESG strategy and serves on the Investment Committee, where she has built a best-in-class ESG infrastructure, embedded regulatory compliance and risk analytics, and increased ESG-motivated allocations by 45%. Marianne brings a strong record of advising boards and executive teams across private equity, corporates, development finance, and nonprofits on sustainable value creation, enterprise risk, and stakeholder trust. A former founder of the ESG advisory firm Ethos Matters and a leader at adidas, Reebok, and Oxfam America, she has spearheaded initiatives in emerging issues in labor rights, climate risk, responsible sourcing, and post-M&A ESG integration. Marianne holds a JD from Boston University School of Law and a MALD from The Fletcher School, and is a trusted advisor known for aligning fiduciary oversight with long-term impact and value creation.

I'm excited to share my professional biography, reflecting four decades of work at the intersection of architecture, urban planning, and social impact. As I explore compensated board and advisory roles, I'm eager to bring my experience in civic design, governance, and resilience strategy to organizations committed to shaping equitable, climate-conscious futures.

Joseph Goffman is a seasoned executive and legal expert with over 35 years of leadership in environmental policy, regulatory affairs, and clean energy strategy. As a key architect of landmark regulations under the Clean Air Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that reduce emissions, promote sustainability, and enhance public health. With extensive experience leading regulatory initiatives at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, advising the U.S. Senate, and directing Harvard Law School’s Environmental and Energy Law Program, Goffman brings a deep understanding of the intersection between policy, law, and business. His expertise spans industries including auto manufacturing, electric power, oil and gas, and clean energy, making him a trusted advisor for organizations navigating environmental compliance and sustainability efforts. Passionate about problem-solving, collaboration, and strategic governance, he is now seeking board opportunities to leverage his vast experience in regulatory strategy, operational leadership, and policy innovation.

Nancy Dragani is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of leadership in state and federal emergency management, known for her ability to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and lead high-performing teams. As Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 8, she has overseen disaster response, recovery, mitigation, and preparedness across six states and 29 tribal nations, implementing a “People First” approach that significantly improved organizational culture and performance. A champion of strategic initiatives, she launched the Readiness and Disaster Summit, established the Interagency Recovery Cell, and enhanced federal recovery programs, ensuring communities receive effective and equitable support. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and holding national leadership roles, Dragani continues to shape the future of emergency management through visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to resilience.

I'm excited to share my journey in sustainable urban planning and ecological resilience. My career has centered on creating resilient, vibrant spaces that blend environmental stewardship with urban design, and I’m passionate about continuing to make a positive impact. Here is my biography.