Titles

• Research Scientist, Earth League and Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory

Biography

As research scientist, Clea Edwards supports the Networks and Engagement domains of the Global Futures Laboratory. Her role is situated largely within the Earth League Secretariat, where she is responsible for executing the mission and vision of the organization by communicating scientific information produced by distinguished Earth League scientists to diverse and broad audiences. The Earth League is a voluntary international alliance of esteemed scientists, who work together to respond with a united voice to some of the most pressing issues faced by humankind as a consequence of climate change, depletion of natural resources, land degradation, and water scarcity. Edwards studied organizations that are active at the "boundary" between knowledge and action for sustainability outcomes. Her master’s research in the School of Sustainability developed a case study of the Arizona Water Institute as a boundary organization. During this time, she worked also with the WaterSim team at the Decision Center for a Desert City to interrogate the water simulation tool’s ability to be an effective "boundary object," providing complex scientific information to stakeholders. Prior to returning to ASU, Edwards earned a doctorate in education while acting as assistant director of a public charter school. In 2014, she launched a virtual school for students in grades 7-12 under the Arizona Online Instruction Program. She will employ the skills and perspective cultivated during her time in K-12 educational administration, combined with her experience in the School of Sustainability, to contribute to the capacities of Global Futures Laboratory and the Earth League as boundary organizations on a global scale.

Education

• EdD, Leadership and Innovation, Arizona State University, 2017
• MA, Sustainability, Arizona State University, 2009
• BA, International Relations with minor in Latin American Studies, University of British Columbia, 2006