At the University of Dayton, students from all disciplines actively participate in sustainability initiatives on campus and in the community. Through opportunities offered by the Hanley Sustainability Institute (HSI) and related sustainable engineering programs, students contribute to UD’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and the advancement of the common good.
Alex Zawacki is a current graduate student pursuing a master’s in renewable and clean energy. Zawacki began his academic journey as a health science undergraduate at the University of Dayton before transitioning to the sustainability major. This pivotal decision introduced him to HSI and ultimately led to his current role as a graduate assistant under associate professor Dr. Rydge Mulford and mentor Dr. Kevin Hallinan, professor emeritus.
“If I had to choose again, I wouldn’t hesitate to make the same decision. In fact, I did when I chose to continue at UD for my master’s degree,” Zawacki said.
Through his graduate assistantship, Zawacki is in the process of completing two projects — studying microclimatic variations in solar prairies and their impact on insect populations, as well as solar panel tilt optimization and identifying which fixed tilt angle yields the highest energy output.
“Both projects enhance UD’s research portfolio and can be educational tools for students and faculty interested in the intersection of clean energy and environmental impact,” Zawacki said.
The solar prairie microclimate study supports understanding of how renewable energy can coexist with ecological preservation, as the solar tilt optimization project provides data to improve the efficiency of campus solar installations and guide future projects at UD.
Through these two projects, Zawacki is gaining experience in integrating environmental science with energy engineering.
“The microclimate study has taught me how installing solar arrays can influence local ecosystems, particularly insect habitats and the ecological side of renewable energy development. The solar tilt optimization project is deepening my technical skills in energy data analysis and system design,” Zawacki said. “Together, these projects are showing me how to balance energy performance with ecological responsibility—something I hope to carry into my career.”
After graduation, Zawacki hopes to work in the clean energy industry in a role that contributes to solar or wind energy development, energy efficiency or grid modernization.
“I’m passionate about implementing sustainable solutions at scale and want to be part of the transition to a cleaner, more resilient energy system. Whether it’s through engineering design, project development, or energy systems analysis, I want my work to make a tangible impact,” Zawacki said. “The University of Dayton has not only given me the opportunity to apply my education, but has also helped me grow both academically and professionally by deepening my knowledge and providing real-world experiences that I’ll have forever.”