iSustain Expands Haslam Sustainability Endowment to $1 Million, Strengthening Commitment to Future Leaders in Circularity

Investing in Tomorrow’s Sustainability Champions

As a national leader in industrial recycling and sustainability solutions, iSustain is deepening its commitment to the next generation of environmental leaders by increasing its endowment to the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. 

In 2023, we established the first-ever graduate fellowship sustainability endowment for the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, committing $400,000 to provide financial assistance to students passionate about integrating sustainability into business practices.

Now, in 2025, we have contributed an additional $300,000, bringing the total endowment to $1 million.

This latest contribution further strengthens iSustain’s mission to foster sustainability-minded business professionals who will drive positive environmental change in their careers. 

“We are doubling down on our commitment to sustainability leadership,” said Mark Huber, Vice President of Business Development at iSustain and a University of Tennessee alumnus. “Investing in these students means investing in the future of sustainable business. This endowment ensures that passionate, dedicated individuals have the support they need to develop the skills that will shape a greener tomorrow.”

The Endowment’s Impact in Action

Since its inception, the iSustain Graduate Fellowship Endowment has existed to support students who are committed to making a meaningful impact in sustainable business practices. The first recipient, Emma Strieter, received the scholarship in 2024 and shared how the funding has influenced her journey:

 “I’m very honored to be the first recipient of this endowment. The funds came at just the right time, and meeting with Mark and Dawn at iSustain showed me that it’s possible to have a career that makes a tangible difference. iSustain’s dedication to sustainability is inspiring, and I’m excited to see where this journey will take me.” 

With this latest expansion, even more students will have the opportunity to pursue sustainability-driven careers without the financial burden that often accompanies graduate education.

Expanding Opportunities for Future Sustainability Leaders

The additional funding will increase the number of students benefiting from the endowment, expanding opportunities for those who are passionate about sustainability but may otherwise face financial barriers in pursuing graduate education.

Dr. Stephen L. Mangum, dean of the Haslam College of Business, previously emphasized the significance of iSustain’s initial investment, stating that it would “assist generations of UT students in achieving their career and life goals” while ensuring that “the business leaders of the future are both well trained and committed to preserving our planet’s natural resources.” With this expanded endowment, iSustain is further solidifying that commitment, allowing even more students to benefit from financial support as they pursue sustainability-driven careers in business. 

Paul Clark, senior director of development at UT, previously spoke about the critical need for sustainability-focused scholarships, saying: “This will be the first scholarship, undergraduate or graduate, within the Haslam College of Business that gives preference for students who are passionate about, and engaged in, promoting sustainability. This is a truly groundbreaking investment. This fellowship could be the difference between a full-time graduate student working multiple jobs or being able to focus on their studies.” With iSustain’s latest contribution, this endowment will now support even more students in achieving their academic and career aspirations.

Looking Ahead: The Future Impact of iSustain’s Endowment

With this new milestone, our $1 million endowment now stands as a cornerstone of sustainability-focused education at the Haslam College of Business. As the program grows, it will provide even more students with the financial assistance needed to pursue careers in sustainable business strategies, environmental policy, and corporate responsibility.