Mark Tracy: A Journey from Finance to Sustainable Impact
In a world increasingly aware of the pressing need for sustainability, Mark Tracy ’95 stands out as a beacon of commitment and innovation. Graduating from Brown University with a wealth of opportunities from traditional banks and consulting firms, Tracy made a bold choice: he opted to dedicate his career to sustainability and agricultural rights. Nearly three decades later, he has returned to his alma mater, taking on the role of the first professor of sustainable finance and investing at the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES).
A Full-Circle Return to Brown
Tracy’s return to College Hill is not just a professional milestone; it is a deeply personal journey. “Brown feels like home,” he shared with The Herald, reflecting on the comfort and familiarity he found on campus, especially after the loss of both his parents during his sophomore year. This experience profoundly shaped his worldview and career path. “I hated seeing people in a vulnerable position like I was when my parents passed away,” he explained, which fueled his desire to alleviate unfairness in the world.
His commitment to sustainability was not merely a career choice; it was a calling rooted in empathy. Tracy’s early experiences with farmers, who faced the harsh realities of fluctuating weather and food prices, reinforced his determination to create a more equitable agricultural system.
Pioneering Sustainability in the Corporate World
Tracy’s professional journey began at Cargill, a global food company, where he worked with farmers across five continents. This role was pivotal in shaping his understanding of how financial tools could be leveraged to create innovative solutions for sustainability. He became an advocate for fair pricing for farmers, striving to protect vulnerable populations from food insecurity.
In 2018, Tracy took on a leadership role at Indigo, a startup focused on revolutionizing food distribution. Here, he applied his extensive experience to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices, further solidifying his commitment to sustainable agriculture. Additionally, he co-founded EarthAcre with fellow Brown alumnus Viraj Sikand ’17, aiming to support environmental conservation and bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications in climate studies.
Bridging Theory and Practice in Sustainable Investing
As Tracy steps into his new role at IBES, he is not just teaching; he is actively shaping the future of sustainable finance education. He collaborates with Cary Krosinsky, an adjunct lecturer in environment and society, to teach the course ENVS 1545: “The Theory and Practice of Sustainable Investing.” This class, open to all Brown students, delves into evaluating companies with environmental initiatives, understanding investment trends in sustainability, and valuing nature itself.
The course was developed in response to student-led protests in the 2010s advocating for divestment from fossil fuels. It aims to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world challenges, emphasizing the complexities of pushing for sustainable change. Krosinsky noted, “From my experience, Brown is more focused on theory than career experience,” highlighting the importance of practical applications in making an environmental impact.
Shaping the Future of Sustainability Education
Tracy’s influence extends beyond the classroom. He is instrumental in developing a curriculum that emphasizes sustainability-focused classes, aligning with the goals outlined in the IBES’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan. Collaborating with Brown’s Center for Career Exploration, he is also working to create more internships and full-time opportunities for students eager to make a difference in the environmental sector.
Kim Cobb, the director of IBES, emphasized the significance of Tracy’s addition to the institute, stating, “He’s the needle in the haystack.” His presence is a culmination of a multi-year, student-driven process, reflecting the growing demand for sustainability education across various disciplines.
Conclusion
Mark Tracy’s journey from a promising finance career to a dedicated advocate for sustainability exemplifies the power of purpose-driven work. His return to Brown University not only enriches the academic community but also inspires the next generation of leaders to pursue meaningful careers that address the pressing challenges of our time. As he guides students through the complexities of sustainable finance, Tracy embodies the belief that education can be a catalyst for positive change in the world.