Anita Tendler, PhD
Anita Tendler, PhD, is a recognized expert in sustainability and decarbonization, specializing in the clean energy transition and supply chain decarbonization across complex industries, including healthcare, energy, and transportation. She is passionate about helping organizations achieve measurable emissions reductions while improving operational efficiency and financial performance. Currently, at Vizient, Inc., Anita leads sustainability value solutions, partnering with health systems to complete greenhouse gas inventories and implement strategic decarbonization initiatives. Her work includes leading a project with Mayo Clinic to develop a comprehensive Scope 3 greenhouse gas inventory, which innovatively tracks the impact of AI usage on carbon footprint, and contributing to energy demand load forecasting for a $1.9 billion utility acquisition.
Dr. Tendler earned her PhD in Clean Energy Economics from Boston University in 2023, where her research applied advanced econometric modeling to analyze global and local solar PV adoption and assess the impacts of policy interventions, such as carbon pricing, on accelerating the clean energy transition. Her career began at Cornell University, studying herpetology and ornithology, before transitioning to decarbonization and renewable energy. Under the mentorship of a professor skilled in statistics, economics, and renewable energy, she developed her expertise in quantitative modeling and policy analysis. Following her PhD, Anita pursued a consulting career in sustainability and decarbonization policy, advising utilities, investment funds, and hospitals on emissions reduction, energy strategy, and supply chain sustainability.
Anita’s career reflects a dedication to mentorship, equity, and strategic problem-solving. She has been a vocal advocate for women in consulting, sharing her experiences navigating traditional workplace dynamics and highlighting the importance of supportive leadership. For the first time, having a woman as her direct manager allowed her to fully trust her instincts and confidently contribute in meetings. Beyond her professional work, Anita is committed to community engagement, scientific education, and advancing sustainability through collaboration, research, and innovative solutions that drive tangible impact toward a low-carbon future.
• Cornell University - BS, Animal Sciences
• Boston University - PhD
• Awarded full Ph.D. funding from BU Impact Measurement & Allocation Program
• The Multiplier Effect of Endogenous Technical Change Accelerates the Transition to Photovoltaic Cells
• Awarded full Ph.D. funding from NSF Research Traineeship Grant
• Cornell Imagining Energy Futures Competition
• Cornell Environmental and Sustainability Communications Fellowship
• Cornell University Dean's List for Academic Achievement
• Cornell University, Naturalist Outreach Practicum Speaker
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, perseverance, and the guidance of exceptional mentors throughout my journey. One mentor who has had a profound impact on my growth is my PhD research advisor, Dr. Robert Kaufman at Boston University, whose expertise, support, and encouragement helped shape my academic and professional path.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, curiosity, and a commitment to making a positive impact. My educational journey, which includes a Bachelor’s in Animal Science and Environmental Science from Cornell University and a PhD in Energy Economics and Decarbonization Policy from Boston University, has reinforced the importance of rigor, lifelong learning, and thoughtful decision-making. I am also dedicated to building supportive communities, as reflected in my involvement with women’s networking groups such as the Colorado Ivy Women’s Group and the Women’s Energy Network, and I actively seek ways to support the Russian-Ukrainian community.