School of Public Health faculty wins Clean Air Award for his work in the community

Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, an associate professor at Loma Linda University School of Public Health and School of Medicine, has been awarded the Dr. Robert M. Zweig, M.D. Memorial Award by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) for his contributions towards improving air quality and public health in Southern California, including the Eastern Coachella Valley, San Bernardino, and Muscoy.

For over three decades, South Coast AQMD has honored those who have made outstanding clean air contributions to improve the community's health and the economy. The award was established to recognize the contributions of those deeply committed to reducing the impacts of air pollution on public health.

“I am delighted to see recognition for Dr. Sinclair’s work for greater awareness of air quality issues impacting the health and quality of life for residents in the Inland Empire,” said Helen Hopp Marshak, PhD, dean of the School of Public Health.

Sinclair was honored for his commitment to improving public health by reducing air pollution in his native Coachella Valley and Inland Empire region, founded in his research on the Salton Sea and collaborative work with the community. His contributions were instrumental in developing Community Emission Reduction Plans for two AB 617 Community Steering Committees in San Bernardino/Muscoy and the Eastern Coachella Valley. He also took on a leadership role during the AB 1318 mitigation fund process to support organizations and communities most impacted by air pollution.

Among the other honorees to be recognized are Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mayor Judith Mitchell (Ret.), former California Air Resources Board and South Coast AQMD Governing Board member.

South Coast AQMD is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley.