Leslie A. Faulkner, Founder & CEO
As Founder & CEO of Emerald Advisors & Consultants, Inc., Leslie A. Faulkner endeavors to make significant sustainability impacts within organizations by utilizing her prowess in process-analysis, strategic thinking, and scholarly research. Specifically, she applies this expertise to drive increased efficiency in waste, energy, and water management through operational improvements.
Leslie holds a M.S. in Sustainability Management from Columbia University and a B.A. in Ancient History and Classical Civilization from the University of Texas at Austin. She is currently working toward a certificate in Sustainability Analytics from Columbia University. Leslie is also LEED GA certified and GRI G4 trained.
leslie@emeraldsustainability.com
Drew Sambol, Partner
Drew Sambol earned an M.S. from Columbia University in Sustainability Management. Drew received her B.A. from Brandeis University in International and Global Studies, as well as in French. Prior to joining Emerald, she developed a large real estate community of single-family homes in New Jersey, managing the process from concept through government approvals to construction.
Drew’s focus is on empowering small to medium-sized organizations with comprehensive sustainability strategies that improve business performance through environmental efficiency. Her interest in this specialized practice developed out of a research collaboration with faculty at Columbia University's Earth Institute. These strategies are implemented through building on existing business practices, as well as integrating new, pragmatic solutions.
Drew received specialized training in sustainability reporting (GRI G4) and has advanced knowledge of cutting-edge sustainability methodology in operations, supply chain management, energy efficiency, and cost-benefit analysis. Armed with this knowledge, Drew designs tailored and comprehensive sustainability strategies and solutions to help organizations function more symbiotically with the natural environment.
drew@emeraldsustainability.com
Danielle Sack, Consultant
Danielle Sack, LEED AP BD+C, GRPO CM, Assoc. AIA is a project manager at a mid-sized architectural firm specializing in mixed-use development and smart growth of dense populations. Ms. Sack’s portfolio includes commercial, residential, industrial, and hospitality projects in the New York metro area. Danielle has an interest in affordable housing, sustainable construction, and the legal issues in managed coastal retreat.
Danielle has also been a design team member and project administrator for two LEED certifications. Pursuant to the belief that responsibility and integrity are integral to architecture, she has a BA in Architecture from Lehigh University and is currently a student in the Master of Science in Sustainability Management program at Columbia University. She is an Earth Institute Sustainability Management Fellow, volunteers with Architecture for Humanity - a nonprofit design services firm promoting safe, sustainable, and innovative communities - and is the Campus Director for the Hult Prize at Columbia University social entrepreneurship case competition.
John Ortolano, Consultant
John Ortolano is currently the Founder & President of Ortolano Real Estate, which specializes in sustainability-focused remodeling projects. Mr. Ortolano has been actively involved in the world of sustainability since 2007. John began his career working in homeowner’s insurance where his insight into common industry practices gave way to improved efficiencies while cultivating ecological, social, and economic integrity. In 2012, looking to further his expertise in the field, he enrolled in Columbia University’s Masters of Science in Sustainability Management program. His work there has enabled him to supplement his prior hands-on experience in the construction industry with an academic concentration in energy efficiency and production.
John has also earned a B.S. in Real Estate & Economics from Montclair State University. He has completed the Building Performance Institute’s Multi-Family Building Analyst training and is a LEED Green Associate, in addition to having earned his license on Lead Safe Work Practices for the state of New Jersey. John is also certified in Global Reporting Initiative’s G4 reporting protocol.
john@ortent.com