The Student Team

Joe Hinsberger
Civil and Environmental Engineering

Joe is a junior studying Civil and Environmental Engineering at Illinois. He is passionate about expanding access and connection with nature, especially in urban environments. He enjoys learning how water impacts ecosystems, such as dam removal projects and reintroducing beavers in drought areas. In his free time, he enjoys working out and hiking.

Joe is the first RORG Student Team member to receive course credit through ENVS 491: Sustainability Experience.

Under the guidance of the RORG Team, Joe is involved in rain garden stewardship, tabling events, and other outreach and engagement initiatives.

Abby Jacobs
Graphic Design

Abby Jacobs is a junior at the University of Illinois studying Graphic Design with minors in Art History and English. She enjoys using visual design to communicate meaningful messages to a wide audience. She is excited to engage in the Red Oak Rain Garden sustainability and community engagement efforts. In her free time, Abby enjoys a good book with a cup of coffee, knitting, and walks outdoors with family and friends.  

Under the guidance of the RORG Team, Abby is involved with social media content and graphics.

Clare Smith
Architecture

Clare Smith is a senior at Illinois studying Architecture with a minor in the Sustainability, Energy, and Environment Fellows Program. She enjoys exploring the relationship between design and the environment, with a focus on creating spaces that support sustainability and community. In the future, Clare hopes to combine her interests in architecture, sustainability, and design to create thoughtful, environmentally conscious spaces.

Under the guidance of the RORG Team, Clare is involved with merchandise design and photography of the rain garden.

Jenna Balaban
Environmental Engineering

Jenna is a junior studying Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois. She is passionate about protecting water resources and advancing sustainable infrastructure that heals ecosystems. She is especially interested in how nature can serve as a powerful defense against flooding and erosion. In her free time, Jenna enjoys painting and going on nature walks.

Under the guidance of the RORG Team, Jenna is involved with Extension stormwater projects and green infrastructure community outreach.