Joy Custer

Joy Custer, MS, currently serves as the Urban Forestry Program Manager at the Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) since March 2024. Previously, Joy coordinated programs in Environmental Science and Sustainability at The University of Texas at Austin, managing over $650k in grant-funded initiatives and enhancing the sustainability curriculum with a focus on environmental justice. Joy's background includes roles as a Molecular Research Specialist at Arizona State University, where contributions expanded viral diversity knowledge and advanced sustainability initiatives. As a Youth Engagement Coordinator with AmeriCorps VISTA, Joy improved access to healthy foods for underserved youth in food deserts. Additional experience includes positions at the University of Arizona, supporting both research and teaching in environmental science, as well as early career roles in recreation and customer service. Joy holds a Master's degree in Environmental Science and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Arizona.