2023 Alumni Awards Profiles
Rod Sinks ’81
Reunion: 40th
Residence: Cupertino, California
Grinnell major: Physics
Other degrees: Master of Science in Electrical Engineering in computers and communication systems from Stanford University (1982)
Profession: Engineering management and public service
3 ways Rod embodies Grinnell College’s mission of lifetime learning and service
- Rod championed education, economy, housing, transportation, and environment issues during his nine years serving on Cupertino City Council.
- He helped found and was the first chair of the Silicon Valley Clean Energy Authority, bringing carbon-free electricity at lower rates to residents and businesses in 13 cities.
- He served as chair of the 24-member Bay Area Air Quality Management District Board, overseeing air quality and climate mitigation strategies across the nine-county Bay Area.
Something you probably didn’t know about Rod
Rod has been a scoutmaster and YMCA Adventure Guides leader.
Bonus Rod Fun Facts
- Rod is immediate past president of the Cupertino Rotary Club and initiated its Climate Action Committee.
- He has been a musical parody writer and cast member for the annual Los Altos Stage Company Follies fundraiser since 2008.
- Rod has served as a Grinnell College class fund director since 1987 and has been a member of several Reunion Class Committees.
A quote about Rod
“Rod Sinks is passionate, diplomatic, analytical, dedicated, and courageous. All these and other character traits have worked together to make Rod an effective and innovative leader.”
– Linda Sell, Sunnyvale City Council Member and former Bay Area for Clean Environment board member
Read more 2023 Alumni Award Recipient profiles.