SEF Blog

SCHNECKSVILLE, Pa. (July 29, 2026) – Regenerative Energy Initiative is proud to announce that Vice President of Outreach & Education, Kelly Sanders, has been named to City & State Pennsylvania’s 2026 40 in Their Forties, recognizing professionals across the Commonwealth who are making a lasting impact through leadership, innovation and service.

The annual recognition celebrates Pennsylvanians in their 40s who are leading in government, business, nonprofit organizations, education and advocacy while helping shape the future of the Commonwealth. Honorees will be recognized during a celebration at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg on Thursday, July 30.

Before joining Regenerative Energy Initiative (formerly known as Sustainable Energy Fund), Sanders built her career in museum education, where she developed engaging educational experiences and community programs. She brought that same passion for connecting people with meaningful learning opportunities into the nonprofit energy sector, where she now helps make complex energy topics accessible to students, educators, businesses and communities across Pennsylvania.

Throughout her career, Sanders has helped expand educational opportunities, strengthen community partnerships and advance energy awareness across Pennsylvania. At Regenerative Energy Initiative, she leads the organization’s outreach and education efforts while helping oversee programs that connect students, educators, businesses, nonprofit organizations and community leaders with resources that support a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Under her leadership, Regenerative Energy Initiative continues to expand initiatives including Energypath, the organization’s flagship energy conference and workforce development program, the Nonprofit Energy Makeover Contest, educational programming such as Net Zero Building tours, workforce development initiatives and community engagement efforts that inspire the next generation of energy leaders.

Beyond her nonprofit work in sustainable energy, Sanders is also the founder of Cars & Cookies for Colon Cancer, a car show created in memory of her brother that raises awareness and funds for colorectal cancer education and prevention. Her dedication to serving others reflects her belief that meaningful change begins by building stronger, healthier communities.

“Kelly’s passion for education, outreach and community engagement has helped shape countless programs that empower individuals and organizations to take meaningful action,” said John Costlow, President of Regenerative Energy Initiative. “This recognition is a reflection of her leadership, her commitment to others and the lasting impact she continues to make throughout Pennsylvania.”

Sanders joins an accomplished group of leaders from across Pennsylvania whose work is helping strengthen communities and improve the Commonwealth through public service, nonprofit leadership, business innovation and civic engagement.

Regenerative Energy Initiative congratulates Kelly on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates her continued commitment to advancing education, collaboration and sustainable energy solutions throughout Pennsylvania.

View the complete City & State Pennsylvania 2026 40 in Their Forties list.

About Regenerative Energy Initiative

Regenerative Energy Initiative is an independent nonprofit organization advancing energy systems that renew, revitalize and regenerate. Through innovative financing, workforce development, education and strategic partnerships, the organization helps communities, businesses and institutions build a more sustainable and resilient energy future.