Daniel Onyeanuna works as a sustainability analyst for Deloitte. A 2024 graduate of the Keough School of Global Affairs’ Master of Global Affairs program, Onyeanuna advises large companies, helping them comply with the intricacies of climate-related financial disclosures.

In this conversation, Onyeanuna shares how his Keough School education prepared him to make a difference through his work in corporate sustainability.

Q&A with Daniel Onyeanuna

What are your primary responsibilities in your role now? What are the best parts and what do you find challenging?

As a sustainability analyst, I support publicly traded companies, primarily those that are part of the S&P 500, as they navigate climate-related financial disclosures. This enables them to comply with regulations. My role involves conducting climate risk analysis, decarbonization and transition planning, evaluating the financial impact of sustainability issues on a company and the company's impact on the environment and society, and helping businesses integrate sustainability into their core strategies. I assist companies in analyzing their carbon footprint, fostering responsible supply chains and aligning with global net-zero commitments.

The most rewarding aspect of my role is driving meaningful change at the intersection of business and environmental sustainability. I particularly enjoy working with high-emitting industries to optimize processes, reduce carbon footprints and implement cost-saving strategies that support a path towards carbon neutrality while enhancing their competitive advantage.

However, the role comes with challenges, including the ever-evolving sustainability regulatory landscape, the complexity of harmonizing global reporting frameworks, and gaps in comprehensive emissions data. Many companies still struggle with data collection, measuring indirect emissions in their supply chains and understanding the financial implications of sustainability risks. There is a growing need to enhance awareness of mandatory sustainability reporting and the business case for sustainable investments, as some stakeholders remain skeptical about the long-term value of such initiatives. Addressing these challenges requires strategic communication with industry experts, government and regulatory bodies and business leaders.

What skills or knowledge from the Master of Global Affairs program do you draw upon in your current position?

The MGA program equipped me with skills in policy analysis, corporate sustainability reporting and strategic networking. These skills have been crucial in helping me work with colleagues and advise clients across diverse industries. They have enabled me to navigate complex sustainability regulations, drive decarbonization strategies and foster meaningful professional relationships. Additionally, the program's emphasis on interdisciplinary learning allowed me to strengthen my research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for addressing sustainability challenges and helping businesses transition toward responsible and profitable climate strategies.

Why did you choose the Keough School’s Master of Global Affairs program?

I chose the Master of Global Affairs program for its interdisciplinary and globally diverse learning environment, where students from different backgrounds, countries and professional experiences bring their unique perspectives to the classroom. The program’s generous funding allowed me to pursue my studies without financial constraints, enabling me to focus entirely on my studies. Additionally, Notre Dame’s strong reputation for academic excellence was also a factor in choosing the Keough School.

Which aspects of the Master of Global Affairs program impacted you the most?

One of the most impactful aspects of the Master of Global Affairs program was the career trek organized through the Career Colloquium, which provided networking opportunities with leading companies and organizations in Chicago. This directly led to securing a summer internship with Deloitte, which resulted in a full-time offer a year before graduation. The program’s flexibility allowed me to tailor my coursework by integrating corporate sustainability courses from the Mendoza College of Business with policy courses from the Keough School. This interdisciplinary approach deepened my understanding of corporate sustainability, regulatory compliance and policymaking. Beyond academics, participating in international fieldwork in La Guajira, Colombia broadened my perspectives on sustainability challenges across different regions. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my ability to navigate complex sustainability landscapes and drive meaningful change in my current role.

What advice do you have for someone who is considering a master of global affairs?

For those considering the Master of Global Affairs program, I highly recommend fully engaging in the career colloquium and leveraging Notre Dame’s extensive networking opportunities. These experiences can open doors to valuable connections, internships and long-term career prospects. Additionally, take advantage of the University’s interdisciplinary approach by exploring relevant courses beyond the Keough School in topics such as business, law or science to build a well-rounded skill set tailored to your career aspirations.

Beyond academics, put what you have learned into practice, such as internships, research projects, and global experiential learning through the Keough School’s Integration Lab. These experiences will provide practical insights into policy implementation and sustainability challenges while strengthening your problem-solving and analytical skills. Engaging with faculty and peers from diverse backgrounds will also broaden your perspectives to tackle complex global issues.

Lastly, be proactive in shaping your career path, seek mentorship, participate in conferences, and take leadership roles in student bodies. The Master of Global Affairs program offers a wealth of resources, and making the most of them will significantly enhance your learning experience and position you for success in your future roles.

Master of Global Affairs Program

The two-year master of global affairs degree provides rigorous professional training, close engagement with policymakers, multi-disciplinary faculty and a network of students from around the world, alongside extended fieldwork with global partners working to address global challenges.

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Originally published by Josh Stowe at keough.nd.edu on March 26, 2025.