Meet Igor Tregub ’26
Where are you from and what is your background?
Though I have largely resided on Chochenyo Ohlone Land over the past 21 years in Berkeley, CA, I was born in Kyiv, Ukraine. The battles on the front lines of democracy in which my family members and friends who are still there, are never far from my mind, and motivate me to do the work of fighting for democracy here.
Why did you apply for this graduate program and decide to study at USF?
Shortly after the war on Ukraine broke out in 2022, a mentor of mine who saw the fundraising I was doing for relief, resistance, and resettlement efforts, invited me to apply for the Certificate in Public Leadership program. I was so inspired by the learnings and the community of practice I built, that I decided to apply for my second Master's program — this one in Public Leadership.
What impacts has the Dean's Scholarship had on your ability to further your studies?
As a mid-career professional who pivoted into a climate policy career a few years ago, the program and its scholarship allowed me to quench my thirst for learning and continuous improvement for the public good. At the time I received my first graduate degree (one that I am continuing to pay off), I never considered pursuing additional graduate studies. It had to be a program that met my needs and schedule. This program fit like a glove, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity that I found.
What are your career ambitions?
As a recently elected member of the Berkeley City Council who works part-time in advancing energy democracy through statewide climate policy advocacy, I feel that I am right where I want to be. The years ahead will be full of challenges — budgetary, policy-based, and political — and my ambitions are to do the very best in both of these roles to ensure that those in my beloved community, and communities across the world, can not only survive, but can thrive and feel included, affirmed, and listened to.
What is something unique or interesting about you?
I once turned down Hollywood to start my public service career. The following year, when I tried out and was accepted on the same show, they canceled it! I could have been someone you heard of.
Are You ELIGIBLE?
The Dean’s Scholarship recognizes a select group of incoming students in graduate programs, who the admission committees believe will make a substantial contribution to the programs. Recipients are selected based on merit. To be considered for the Dean's Scholarship, students must apply to their program by the program's priority deadline.
