Kevin Payne is an MBA candidate at Weatherhead. A proud Cleveland native, Kevin received a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame.
Prior to joining Weatherhead, Kevin designed energy efficient lighting at General Electric, including work on the first generation of Energy Star LED light bulbs. While at GE, Kevin experienced how innovative design can drastically reduce global energy consumption. Assignments in China and Canada strengthened his appreciation for cultural diversity and highlighted the need for global collaboration to solve environmental and social challenges.
After working at GE, Kevin led the R&D department for a small lighting company designing solutions for commercial agriculture. Visits to poultry, swine, and aquaculture farms in the United States, China, Thailand, and Belize shed light on food production perspectives including: environmental and community impact, animal welfare, and sustainable innovation opportunities.
Kevin's interest in servant-leadership and sustainable business value drew him to the Fowler Center's leadership on Appreciative Inquiry and Flourishing Enterprise.
In his spare time, Kevin enjoys spending time with his five nieces and visiting his family's cottage in rural western Pennsylvania.