Helen J. Kessler is the Alumnus of the Year for The Honors College

Helen Kessler graduated from the UA in 1975 with a BA in Architecture. She is grateful for the opportunities provided by The Honors College (then the Honors Program) which gave her a broader educational perspective and encouraged her to think outside the box. During her undergraduate years, she received a strong preparation in problem solving which has served her well. She went on to earn an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Helen is very active in the U.S. Green Building Council and the American Institute of Architects. She has led energy audit teams for numerous facilities, saving her clients millions of dollars annually. Kessler has written over 100 articles on green building, energy efficiency, lighting design and solar energy and has given over 100 presentations on these subjects. In addition to consulting nationally, and writing about green building and energy efficiency, Helen teaches Sustainability in Construction at Northwestern University.

Helen has over 25 years experience in sustainable design, energy efficiency and renewable energy. She brings to her work an emphasis on whole systems thinking which has resulted in numerous awards both for her design work and for her civic participation. Her strategic and interdisciplinary approach and commitment to responsible action rather than simply compliance with regulations are just part of the reason she is being honored as The Honors College Alumnus of the Year. Honors students are encouraged to address uncommon challenges and we know that Helen’s example will provide inspiration for them.

Helen’s life work show that her commitment to sustainability is more than just talk. Helen’s example inspires us to think beyond the rules to the spirit of sustainability.

Helen Kessler has been selected as Alumnus of the Year for 2008. This award, given bi-annually, recognizes an Alumnus of the University of Arizona Honors College whose career has embodied one or more elements of College’s mission statement such as a commitment to social responsibility, a spirit of inquiry and discovery or a passion for life-long learning. Recipients of the award are invited to return to The Honors College to make a presentation, engage in dialogs with current undergraduates, and receive recognition from students and colleagues.