Meet the Team

Jeff Jackson

I founded Happy Planet Running in 2017 as a result of my dual passions for sustainability and running. One thing always bothered me while participating in or volunteering at races: the waste.

After lots of research and lessons learned, I developed a Zero Waste business model that supports small to medium-sized race events at an affordable price, with world-class landfill diversion rates.

Read About Us

Jenny Miller

I am a first year Master’s student at University of Michigan working towards Environment and Sustainability. Before starting my Masters Program, I worked with wild animals to help rehabilitate them and educate the public on wildlife life.

I am excited to join HPR because I can combine my interest in community engagement and outreach with my passion for zero waste! I’m excited to contribute to our mission for a sustainable future and enjoy being outside at the same time!

Cole Prescott

I am finishing up my first year as a masters student at the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) at the University of Michigan. My track is in Environmental Justice. I am from New Hampshire and am really enjoying living in Michigan long-term, especially since I have extended family here and generally think it is a beautiful state. Some fun facts about me is that I am a big UFC fan, as well as being a wrestling fan. For wrestling, I like WWE and AEW. .

Iki Kok

I am a rising junior at the University of Michigan, majoring in the Program in the Environment with a minor in Energy Science and Policy. I am passionate about anything related to the environment and limiting human impact on ecosystems and the climate. Growing up surrounded by sports makes me so excited for this opportunity to help do my part in directly lowering these races’ impact on the environment!

Han Yang

I am a first-year master’s student at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability, pursuing specializations in Sustainability and Development & Sustainable Systems. I am especially interested in climate action, greenhouse gas (GHG) management, and finding practical ways to apply sustainability ideals in the real world.

I’ve always loved spending time in nature and staying active through sports. I also started running marathons last year! I try to live out the values I believe in and feel grateful to be part of a team that shares both my interests and ideals!

Anna Beth Hish

I am a rising senior at the University of Michigan completing my degree in the Program in the Environment. With an academic focus on the intersection of environmental issues and social justice, I immensely appreciate HPR’s mission to target preventable waste while promoting affordability and transparency. Having grown up in Ann Arbor, I am excited to join HPR and
work towards creating a tangible difference in my community!

Rebecca Koch

I’m a junior at the University of Michigan studying business with a minor in sustainability. Growing up in Michigan has lead to a deep love of nature and the need to protect it, while my high school cross country team nurtured my love of running. Happy Planet running combines these two to give me a tangible environmental impact. I’m so excited to be on the outreach team to bring HPR to more races!

Liz Li

I am a Dual Degree Master’s student at University of Michigan working towards Environment and Sustainability and User Experience Design. I feel connected to nature and the environment from growing up on a farm. 

I am excited to join HPR because I can combine my interest in carbon footprint analysis and sustainability, plus I love working outside! I will be helping with the website and integrating carbon footprint analysis into the current zero plan model. I’m excited to contribute to our mission for a sustainable future.

Sara Haleblian

I am a first year master’s student at the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability getting my masters in Ecosystem Science and Management. I am interested in a number of topics including wetlands, sustainable agriculture, as well as ecological restoration. I wanted to work with Happy Planet Running because of my interest in the zero waste movement and my desire to educate others about it.

Olivia Lee

I am a Junior at the University of Michigan School of Public Health working on my degree in Public Health Sciences. I have always had a love for the outdoors, exercise, and sustainability and am passionate about understanding their effects on population health. 

I am really excited to work for HPR to advocate for a cleaner planet while supporting fun race events!