Lead Environmental Social Scientist
Keller Science Action Center
Mario is the Urban Anthropology Manager in the Keller Science Action Center. Whether conducting social research in and around Chicago, collaborating to create culturally based programming, or helping community organizations increase their capacity, Mario works from a central tenant of cultural anthropology that communities possess the knowledge and capacity they need to address most challenges. His work focus on drawing out these cultural assets to improve regional quality-of-life.
Mario has conducted research across the region into topics ranging from housing access, to fish consumption, and urban resilience in the face of climate change. Programs he has helped shape and conduct include Cultural Connections, with a focus on cross-cultural comparisons, and Green Ambassadors that brings teens into Chicago's near south green spaces to develop their leadership and place making skills. Much of his current efforts focus on research to support the creation of a Calumet National Heritage Area that would increase the visibility of and local pride in one of the nations premier industrial and natural landscapes.
Education and Work
M.A., University of Illinois at Chicago, Anthropology
B.A. University of Chicago, Anthropology
Accomplishments
American Anthropological Association
Contact
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