Rachel completed a Bachelors of Architecture degree at California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo where she was extremely fortunate to meet Polly and Ken, the passive solar gurus. Rachel finshed a minor in Sustainable Environments which was recently recognized by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Committee on the Environment (COTE).

While completing a Masters in Business Administration, Rachel cofounded a student organization at Cal Poly with fellow students who shared a passion for the environment and our global future. Among being President of the California Student Sustainability Coalition Cal Poly chapter, she also served on the Academic Senate committee for Sustainable Curriculum Development. Much of Rachel's graduate marketing work revolved around renewable energy, green building and energy efficiency. As the demand for energy, food and housing double over the next 20-30 years in California, Rachel hopes to help meet our basic human needs for clean power, healthy homes, and organic community gardens.

Place making and community are vital components to the concept of sustainability. Educating others about their individual and compounded effects on our shared resource base is critical to creating sustainable environments. Travelling and experiencing the warmth of other cultures and ecosystems inspires a love for all the world's children regardless of species or organic composition and informs design decisions (W. McDonough).