Stephanie Hughes

Stephanie Hughes is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Environmental Studies & Sciences at Santa Clara University, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. She holds an M.S. in Environmental Engineering (Stanford, 1990) and M.S. in Chemical Engineering (Stanford, 1988), as well as a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota (1987 with High Distinction). Her research focuses on air and water quality, pollutant source characterization, wastewater treatment, and regulatory compliance. She actively engages in consulting for Bay Area municipalities, specializing in heavy metal and pesticide impacts on water systems. Her teaching emphasizes real-world applications of environmental science, including energy/resource use analysis and pollution prevention strategies. She co-developed the Sewer Science high school program and authored materials addressing dental mercury pollution, copper corrosion, and recycled water management. Key areas of expertise include environmental engineering, pollution prevention, and sustainable resource management.

Her professional work bridges academia and practice through initiatives like the City of Palo Alto's mercury pollution program and stakeholder analyses of endocrine disruptors in reclaimed water. She frequently presents at conferences on emerging contaminants, recycled water systems, and environmental policy, demonstrating a commitment to both technical innovation and public education. Her publications span practical guides for plumbers and dentists, academic conference presentations on triclosan contamination, and policy-oriented white papers on environmental management strategies.

Dr. Hughes' advising and grants involve mentoring students through the Sustainable Living Undergraduate Research Project (SLURP) and collaborating with regional water agencies on infrastructure planning. She remains active in curriculum development, including laboratory programs for dental hygiene students and K-12 environmental science education materials. Her current consulting projects focus on assessing heavy metal and salt contamination in wastewater systems, reflecting her ongoing engagement with contemporary environmental challenges.