Jennifer and Brian
Current Fellows
Gerardo Ruiz de Teresa 2016
"The Maxwells' success is a true example of how taking chances and believing in yourself can change lives and the world around us. I believe that I share many of the values that Brian and Jennifer demonstrate. I think that the 'go for it' attitude that Brian and Jennifer portray is the same feeling that led me to start a business. I think that being involved with the Maxwells and the Fellows, who are making a difference in people's lives, be it by innovating or simply by trying to make this world better is very enriching. After getting to know some of the Fellows, I understand how different they are and the impact they are having on others. Receiving this prestigious fellowship has been an outstanding experience and I am honored to be a Brian Maxwell Fellow."
Gerardo was born and raised in Mexico City, Mexico. He is a Mechanical and Electrical Engineer who graduated with honors from the Universidad Iberoamericana in 2009. Before Haas, he co-founded IluMéxico, an electrification project in rural communities in Mexico utilizing solar energy as a main resource, developing part of the technology and an intricate social and financial program to reach the most poverty-stricken communities in Mexico. This project has benefited more than fifteen thousand people providing their homes with solar lighting. In 2012, he won the IBERO Social Commitment Award by the Universidad Iberoamericana. In 2013, he won the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur Of The Year México Award in the category of social impact. At Haas, Gerardo wants to focus on energy and clean technologies, specifically on how they affect the environment and society as a whole. He enjoys soccer, snowboarding, surfing, running and motorcycles.