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Jaya Uppal

Class of 2026

I have a background in climate tech and politics. I come to Michigan from Seattle, where I worked in Business Development at LevelTen Energy, a clean energy startup that provides transaction infrastructure for renewable energy buyers and sellers. I’m passionate about accelerating the global clean energy transition while ensuring the transition happens in a way that’s just, equitable, and leaves no one behind.

I’m a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, where I lived in a small town in Sierra Leone and taught middle school math. My personal interests include ultimate frisbee, reading, hiking, meditation, and CrossFit.

I came to Michigan because of the incredibly welcoming community - everyone I reached out to was so willing to talk, and excited to share their experiences with me. I've benefitted greatly from the collaborative community at Michigan Ross and the School of Environment and Sustainability. I'm happy to talk about careers in renewable energy and climate tech, moving to Ann Arbor with a partner, building community, the best vegetarian spots in Ann Arbor, books, and just about anything else.