By Jayden Ozoemena, Sustainability Hub Intern ’24-’26, President’s Sustainability Internship Program
As a President’s Sustainability Intern at the USC Sustainability Hub, I worked to make sustainability more approachable and relevant to the everyday lives of students, faculty, and staff. Under the supervision of Kay Hinds, I welcome guests into the Hub and help make educational opportunities interactive and logistical. My contributions also aligned with USC’s Assignment: Earth goals of climate neutrality and zero waste and sustainability awareness on campus.
One of the most memorable and fulfilling projects I co-led was the development of an educational digital slideshow highlighting World Vegan Month and America Recycles Day in November 2024. Collaborating with another hub intern, Melanie Saavedra, we created a series of 10 informative and visually engaging slides that were broadcasted on the D-TEN display screens located in the Hub. Every time a student or faculty walked inside for a breather or study session, they also brushed up on informative news. These slides aimed to raise awareness about the environmental benefits of plant-based eating and responsible recycling practices.
We made sure the slideshow included compelling data such as the fact that heavy meat eaters produce nearly twice the greenhouse gas emissions compared to low meat eaters and explored sustainable farming practices such as agroforestry and no-till agriculture. We also spotlighted youth activist Genesis Butler and offered beginner-friendly tips such as starting with “Meatless Mondays” or swapping out single-use plastics.
In terms of recycling, we highlighted the origins of America Recycles Day, the EPA’s $375 million investment in recycling education, and the climate benefits of reducing landfill waste. Our closing slides included actionable tips like rinsing recyclables and repurposing jars for home storage.
During this project, I learned how to translate environmental data into clear, digestible, compelling content for public audiences (so that it wasn’t overbearing). I applied research, visual storytelling, and strategic messaging skills I’ve developed in my Public Relations coursework – skills crucial for creating change in real-world sustainability advocacy. I also learned how to manage timelines (working on the project alongside my other duties as a student) and creative collaboration.
The project was well received by the Hub’s visitors and staff and it’s my favorite project because I got to see students and USC faculty take time to read the slides – all the ‘informed’ looks on their faces were pleasing to see! Shout out to Julian Cornejo and Evan Morris for helping us use the D-TEN’s, and I look forward to teaching the next cohort of PSIPs the same thing!
Jayden’s project supports Assignment: Earth Engagement goals 5.1 and 5.2.
Published June 11, 2025
Jayden is earning his B.A. in Public Relations with a minor in Theatre (2026).