The People Planet and Profit Project
Our mission is clear: to drive positive change by helping companies achieve B-Corp certification. We believe that social and environmental responsibility is essential in today’s corporate landscape. By embracing sustainability, businesses not only improve their bottom line but also contribute to a better world.
At P4, we believe that businesses have a vital role to play in shaping a more sustainable future.
The People Planet and Profit Project (P4) is a passionate initiative dedicated to advancing sustainable business practices in Northwest Arkansas. Our mission is to assist companies in achieving the sustainability certifications they desire whether that is the B-Corp certification or a more general Green Business Standard..
B-Corp certification is not just a badge; it’s a commitment to positive change that benefits people, the planet, and profits.
B-Corp certification is a testament to a company’s dedication to making a positive impact. It reflects a commitment to transparency, ethical business practices, and sustainability. Achieving this certification can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships while aligning your business with the values of conscious consumers.
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Opportunities for Local Businesses
Are you a Northwest Arkansas business interested in becoming a force for positive change? Collaborate with P4 on your sustainability journey and gain access to passionate MBA student consultants. Together, we can make a difference in our community.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Companies are usually selected by the committee at the end of the fall semester, and P4 consults with the chosen companies each spring semester.
Apply here:
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Opportunities for Students
Are you a University of Arkansas Graduate Student eager to make a difference?
Join P4 and be part of a dynamic team dedicated to helping businesses achieve B-Corp certification:
✓ Gain practical experience in sustainability consulting
✓ Expand your professional network
✓ Make a meaningful impact
✓ Develop leadership skills
MEET THE TEAM
Leadership
Gustavo Samudio
President
Gustavo Samudio is a dynamic professional, currently enriching his knowledge and skills through an MBA program at the University of Arkansas, with a keen focus on Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, and Storytelling. His multifaceted career path demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, data-driven decision-making, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. As the President of the People Planet & Profit Consultancy Project (P4), Gustavo leads the initiative to promote sustainable business practices, guiding companies in Northwest Arkansas towards achieving sustainability certifications like B-Corp or Green Business Standards.
Peyton Hall
Vice President for Recruitment – Graduate Net Impact President
Peyton Hall is a committed sustainability advocate, currently advancing her expertise through an MBA in Business Sustainability at The University of Arkansas, after earning a BA in Environmental Studies and Spanish from Hendrix College. Her environmental advocacy journey began in the 3rd grade, notably when she dressed as a recycling bin for Halloween. Demonstrating leadership early on, Peyton initiated a plastic bag recycling program at her elementary school, and today continues to actively promote sustainable practices. She currently leads sustainability projects as part of the P4 initiative, driving the adoption of sustainable business models to foster significant environmental and societal advancements. Peyton aspires to extend her impact through a career in corporate sustainability, aiming to catalyze meaningful change.
Haley Beard
Haley Beard is enhancing her consulting expertise by pursuing an MBA with a focus on Strategy at the University of Arkansas, subsequent to attaining a BBA in Supply Chain Management and Finance from Baylor University. With a diverse background encompassing multiple consulting engagements, Haley exhibits a fervent commitment to assisting others. Her dedication to sustainability began following her participation in the P4 initiative during the first year of her MBA program. Presently, Haley assumes the role of Vice President of Talent & Development, spearheading initiatives aimed at enlightening all members on the significance of sustainability and the requisites for B Corp certification within enterprises. Her ambition is to perpetuate a constructive influence through a consulting career while advocating for sustainability within the realm of business.
Academic Advisory Board
Meredith Atkins
Assistant Research Professor – Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R)
Meredith Adkins is an esteemed assistant research professor at the Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R), renowned for her expertise in public policy and organizational management. Holding a Ph.D. in public policy-community development, Meredith excels in creating impactful research and engagement programs. As the principal investigator of I³R’s National Science Foundation Convergence Accelerator grant, she leverages data insights to support small farmers and leads the innovation accelerator team. Her dedication to community engagement is exemplified by her co-founding of the People, Planet, and Profit Project (P4), a graduate student-led social enterprise consultancy. Meredith’s return to her native Fayetteville after a decade of international experience has been marked by her significant contributions to the region’s economic development and her recognition as “One to Watch” by Celebrate Magazine.
Rogelio Contreras
Teaching Assistant Professor – Director of Social Innovation
Rogelio Garcia Contreras is a Teaching Assistant Professor and Director of Social Innovation at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. With a Ph.D. in International Studies from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver, and a background in mathematics from Purdue University, Rogelio brings a unique interdisciplinary approach to his work. He is passionate about community development and empowering students to create real-world impacts through social innovation and entrepreneurship. Rogelio’s research focuses on microfinance and social entrepreneurship, and he actively involves students in addressing community issues both locally and globally. His commitment to experiential learning has taken him and his students to various countries, including Kenya, Mozambique, and Haiti, to work with communities in need. Rogelio’s teaching philosophy emphasizes critical listening and understanding diverse perspectives to find grassroots solutions to social and economic problems. He is also an advocate for student research and service learning, providing opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions.
Lindsey Steiger-Muck
Senior Director of Career Services
Lindsey Steiger-Muck is the Senior Director of Career Services at the Sam M. Walton College of Business, where she leads a team dedicated to helping students prepare for their careers and secure internships. With a strong background in both industry and academia, Lindsey has previously served as the Corporate Outreach Manager and Assistant M.B.A. Director at Walton College. In these roles, she built relationships with stakeholders, advised M.B.A. students, and connected employers with faculty to create career opportunities for students. Lindsey’s experience also includes working at ArcBest logistics company and teaching as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith. She holds an M.B.A. from Walton College and a Bachelor of Business Administration from UA Fort Smith. Passionate about student success, Lindsey is committed to continuing her collaboration with the college’s network and providing valuable support to students as they navigate their career paths.