Melanie Nakagawa (center) participated in the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) High-Level Roundtable on Energy & AI in Paris, where global leaders explored the opportunities and challenges AI presents for the energy sector.
into practice. The greatest opportunities are where those pieces align.”
Melanie Nakagawa ’05
shaping the future of sustainability and global problem-solving.
Microsoſt’s approach is both internal and external, focused on reducing the environmental impact of its own operations while helping others do the same. From matching 100% of its global electricity use with renewable energy to investing in emerging climate technologies through its $1 billion Climate Innovation Fund, the company is helping accelerate progress. Still, Nakagawa emphasizes that no single sector can solve climate change alone.
“Real progress happens when all of these pieces come together,” she explained. “Climate progress only happens at scale when these sectors move together. Government sets direction, investors scale solutions and companies bring innovation
Despite the scale of the challenge, Nakagawa remains optimistic.
“What keeps me inspired is seeing things that once felt impossible become reality,” she said. “When we get the right people at the table, we can make faster progress than we think.”
For current AU students, her advice is clear.
“Prioritize relationships with classmates and professors,” she advises. “Gain hands- on experience early and remain open to unexpected paths.”
She also encourages students to embrace the evolving role of technology in their work. “It’s about how you use tools to improve what you do,” she said, noting that the most effective professionals will be those who can combine strong foundational skills with new technologies.
“Internships give you a front-row seat to how policy and advocacy actually work,” she emphasized. “Most careers are not a straight path. They are a patchwork of experiences that eventually come together.”
Outside of work, Nakagawa finds balance in time with her family and in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
“Spending time with my family is what truly helps me recharge and stay grounded,” she said. “Those moments are a reminder of why I care so much about protecting the environment for future generations.”
From her days at AUWCL to her leadership on the global stage, Nakagawa’s journey reflects a commitment to building a more sustainable future.
“When we work together,” she said, “we can make meaningful progress against our shared sustainability goals.”
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON COLLEGE OF LAW 37
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