CHE Environmental Colloquium
Speaker: Melissa Scanlan, Professor, School of Freshwater Sciences, UW–Milwaukee
Scanlan’s research investigates the environmental footprint of data centers in the U.S., with a focus on water usage. She details her research using public government records and corporate sustainability reports from leading technology companies to assess the environmental impacts of data centers. She then identifies legislative options for sub-national governments to consider, informed by a review of 50 states in the United States.
Scanlan is the Lynde B. Uihlein Endowed Chair in Water Policy, professor, and the director of the Center for Water Policy at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences. Previously, she was a visiting professor at Boston College Law School, and a professor at Vermont Law School.
Scanlan is the founder of a variety of enterprises in the social economy. Infused with clear vision and longevity, she raised millions of dollars to capitalize these enterprises and designed their governance documents, establishing the mission, purpose, and day to day direction. She brings a deep understanding of starting and stewarding enterprises to her research, teaching, and service.
Professor Scanlan brings an interdisciplinary approach to her work. She holds a juris doctorate and master of science in environmental science, policy and management from the University of California, Berkeley, where she graduated with special distinction in water law. She holds a bachelor of arts in world politics from the Catholic University of America, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa.