Sustainable Business Institute
The Sustainable Business Institute (SBI) aims to advance the understanding and practice of leading organizations that address sustainability challenges while ensuring business longevity. Evolving from the Leavey School’s Center for Food Innovation and Entrepreneurship, SBI expands its focus to sustainable business practices, supporting curriculum development, faculty research, and thought leadership. Fostering partnerships and collaboration across businesses, academia, government, nonprofits, and communities.
"At the Sustainable Business Institute (SBI), we believe business can—and must—be a force for good. We bring together students, faculty, industry leaders, and community partners to explore bold ideas, tackle real-world challenges, and build a more sustainable future through business. Rooted in Santa Clara University’s mission, SBI helps the next generation lead with purpose and drive meaningful impact."
"Future business leaders such as Leavey's graduate and undergraduate students, must embrace a 'Business Sustainability' mindset—one that prioritizes environmental and social responsibility and then aligns with their pursuit of business profitability, growth and performance. Adoption of this perspective maintains an optimal equilibrium between economic success and long-term positive impact on the planet and people."
SBI Staff, Faculty, & Students
Executive Director, SBI
Chris Norris
Program Director, SBI
Carol Kelly
Faculty, SBI
Brian Thomas
Faculty Director, SBI
Kumar Sarangee
Adjunct Faculty Member, SBI
Erica Riel-Carden
Graduate Intern, SBI
Maxam Lemmon M.S. '25
Collaboration Committee
The Collaboration Committee brings together faculty and staff experts from across Santa Clara University to advance the institute's interdisciplinary mission. Drawing on diverse perspectives from business, science, engineering, and sustainability, committee members help shape programs and initiatives that bridge academic disciplines and create meaningful impact.
Dean's Executive Professor
Sarah Cabral
Associate Professor, Accounting
Matthew Cedergren
Teaching Professor, Civil, Environmental and Sustainable Engineering
Laura Doyle
Professor, Environmental Studies & Sciences
Leslie Gray
Associate Teaching Professor, Management
Fiona Ji
Program Manager, Center for Sustainability
Veronica Johnson
Director, Center for Sustainability
Lindsey Kalkbrenner
Professor, Communication
Chad Raphael
Chair, Engineering Management and Leadership
Paul Semenza
A Legacy of Innovation and Adaptation
When it began nearly 50 years ago, the mission of the Sustainable Business Institute (SBI)–then known as the Institute of Agribusiness–was to prepare students to lead in the burgeoning field of agriculture and food production. Today, as the world faces interconnected challenges like climate change, resource scarcity, and economic inequality, the SBI continues to adapt, evolve, and lead.
Founded in 1973 with a gift from Joseph Naumes ’34, the Institute of Agribusiness trained future leaders in food production and agriculture. By 1999, it evolved into the Food and Agribusiness Institute (FAI), expanding its focus to food justice, sustainability, and global challenges. Programs connected students with real-world experiences in Ghana, Costa Rica, and Myanmar.
In 2018, FAI became the Center for Food Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CFIE), emphasizing innovation and entrepreneurship in food systems. Located in Silicon Valley, CFIE partnered with industry leaders to provide mentorships, internships, and research opportunities. Initiatives like "Join Us at the Table" and "CFIE Connect" highlighted sustainability, resource management, and global food security.
In 2024, CFIE expanded its mission, becoming the Sustainable Business Institute (SBI). While still engaged in food systems, SBI now tackles ESG metrics, circular economies, and equitable business practices. Rooted in Jesuit values, SBI prepares future leaders to drive sustainable change across industries, from food and energy to technology.