The University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) welcomes back Associate Professor Tony Reames after his impactful stint at the Department of Energy (DOE). Reames, who held key positions as the Principal Deputy Director for State and Community Energy Programs and the DOE’s Deputy Director for Energy Justice, is set to take on the role of the Tishman Professor of Environmental Justice at SEAS. He will also assume the pivotal position of Director of the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic, effective January 2024.
During his time at the DOE, Reames played a crucial role in shaping and executing President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, focusing on delivering a minimum of 40% of the benefits of Federal climate and energy investments to disadvantaged communities. His leadership led to the establishment of the first-ever Office of Energy Justice Policy & Analysis. Notably, as the Principal Deputy Director for State and Community Energy Programs, Reames oversaw the deployment of an impressive $16 billion in programs, ranging from home weatherization to enhancing the energy efficiency of schools.
Armed with expertise in energy and environmental justice, community engagement, and program implementation, Reames is poised to make a lasting impact on the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic. His return signals a strategic move for the university, placing him in a prime position to lead the clinic’s mission of advancing climate resilience and equity in historically underserved communities in Detroit.
Effective January 2024, Reames will embark on a sabbatical, dedicating his time to planning and strategizing for the Clinic’s future initiatives. The Clinic, known for its commitment to fostering long-term relationships with Detroit communities, government entities, businesses, and other stakeholders, aims to prioritize community needs in the face of the ongoing climate crisis.
Reames’ return aligns seamlessly with the increased flow of federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act to communities nationwide. His extensive experience at the DOE uniquely positions him to guide U-M in supporting Detroit as it harnesses its share of resources, ensuring a data-driven and community-led approach to sustainable development.
Furthermore, Reames will serve as a liaison for SEAS with the U-M Center for Innovation in Detroit, playing a pivotal role in building connections and collaborations for both SEAS and the newly established center. This collaboration is anticipated to enhance SEAS’ presence and impact in Detroit, reinforcing the university’s commitment to driving positive change in the community.
Kerry Duggan, who served as the Clinic’s Founding Director since Fall 2021, has laid a solid foundation for Reames to build upon. Under Duggan’s leadership, the Clinic worked closely with the City of Detroit and community partners to address the impacts of climate change on residents, energy and water infrastructure, and businesses. Duggan’s ongoing involvement with SEAS ensures continuity and a seamless transition as Reames assumes his new responsibilities.
As Reames prepares to lead the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic, the University of Michigan anticipates a future marked by innovative, community-driven solutions that contribute to the broader goals of environmental justice and sustainability. His return underscores the university’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges and creating meaningful change in collaboration with Detroit communities. Stay tuned for updates as Reames takes the helm in January 2024, steering the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic towards new heights.
The University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) welcomes back Associate Professor Tony Reames after his impactful stint at the Department of Energy (DOE). Reames, who held key positions as the Principal Deputy Director for State and Community Energy Programs and the DOE’s Deputy Director for Energy Justice, is set to take on the role of the Tishman Professor of Environmental Justice at SEAS. He will also assume the pivotal position of Director of the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic, effective January 2024.
During his time at the DOE, Reames played a crucial role in shaping and executing President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, focusing on delivering a minimum of 40% of the benefits of Federal climate and energy investments to disadvantaged communities. His leadership led to the establishment of the first-ever Office of Energy Justice Policy & Analysis. Notably, as the Principal Deputy Director for State and Community Energy Programs, Reames oversaw the deployment of an impressive $16 billion in programs, ranging from home weatherization to enhancing the energy efficiency of schools.
Armed with expertise in energy and environmental justice, community engagement, and program implementation, Reames is poised to make a lasting impact on the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic. His return signals a strategic move for the university, placing him in a prime position to lead the clinic’s mission of advancing climate resilience and equity in historically underserved communities in Detroit.
Effective January 2024, Reames will embark on a sabbatical, dedicating his time to planning and strategizing for the Clinic’s future initiatives. The Clinic, known for its commitment to fostering long-term relationships with Detroit communities, government entities, businesses, and other stakeholders, aims to prioritize community needs in the face of the ongoing climate crisis.
Reames’ return aligns seamlessly with the increased flow of federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act to communities nationwide. His extensive experience at the DOE uniquely positions him to guide U-M in supporting Detroit as it harnesses its share of resources, ensuring a data-driven and community-led approach to sustainable development.
Furthermore, Reames will serve as a liaison for SEAS with the U-M Center for Innovation in Detroit, playing a pivotal role in building connections and collaborations for both SEAS and the newly established center. This collaboration is anticipated to enhance SEAS’ presence and impact in Detroit, reinforcing the university’s commitment to driving positive change in the community.
Kerry Duggan, who served as the Clinic’s Founding Director since Fall 2021, has laid a solid foundation for Reames to build upon. Under Duggan’s leadership, the Clinic worked closely with the City of Detroit and community partners to address the impacts of climate change on residents, energy and water infrastructure, and businesses. Duggan’s ongoing involvement with SEAS ensures continuity and a seamless transition as Reames assumes his new responsibilities.
Throughout his career, Reames has been steadfast in his commitment to addressing the longstanding environmental injustices faced by Black communities. These communities have borne the disproportionate brunt of pollution, hazardous waste, and the adverse impacts of climate change. Whether grappling with polluted air or facing water crises, the environmental burdens on these communities are both stark and undeniable.
The roots of environmental racism run deep, with historical connections stemming from discriminatory policies and practices that persistently perpetuate these injustices. Reames has been a tireless advocate for change, recognizing the urgent need to rectify these systemic issues.
Notably, the Department of Energy, under Reames’ leadership, has made significant strides in actively involving Black communities and minority stakeholders in crucial discussions aimed at driving transformative change in the energy sector. This inclusive approach reflects a commitment to dismantling long-standing disparities and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.
As Reames prepares to lead the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic, the University of Michigan anticipates a future marked by innovative, community-driven solutions that contribute to the broader goals of environmental justice and sustainability. His return underscores the university’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges and creating meaningful change in collaboration with Detroit communities. Stay tuned for updates as Reames takes the helm in January 2024, steering the SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic towards new heights.
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