Katharine Hayhoe (MS ’97, PhD ’10) has built a career around making climate science accessible—and personal. A world-renowned atmospheric scientist, Hayhoe bridges divides that often seem irreconcilable: she is both a devout Christian and a leading voice on climate change. Her work reaches audiences across political, cultural, and religious lines, driven by the belief that “climate change is not just an environmental issue, it’s a human issue.”
At Illinois, Hayhoe found both her academic foundation and a community that supported her scientific and spiritual growth. Guided by mentor Don Wuebbles, she developed tools to make climate models more meaningful at local levels—a focus that would become her life’s work. Today, Hayhoe serves as chief scientist at The Nature Conservancy, has authored over 150 scientific papers, and continues to inspire action through books, public speaking, and policy advocacy. Her message remains clear: climate action starts with conversation, and love—for others, for the planet—is the most powerful motivator of all.