At Upstream, we believe caring for Minnesota begins with the people who care for the places around them, consistently, and without need for recognition. Bill Newman and Steve Waderich embody this spirit of stewardship through their deep commitment to both people and place. Their stories remind us that caring for Minnesota means finding common ground, between industry and ecology, between innovation and tradition, between individuals who share a love for the same land, even if they see the world differently.
Bill Newman: Finding Win-Win Solutions for Clean Water and Industry
Bill Newman has spent his career proving that progress doesn’t have to come at the expense of our environment. Through his companies, RNAS Remediation Products and Clearwater Biologics, Bill develops practical, science-based solutions to safely and affordably address water contamination. His work demonstrates a powerful truth: Minnesota can have both thriving industry and clean water, both strong jobs and healthy rivers and lakes.
Bill approaches challenges with curiosity instead of conflict. Rather than getting caught in the gridlock of politics, he looks for what’s possible. His problem-solving mindset helps bridge divides, inviting others to see that caring for our natural world is not a partisan act, it’s a shared responsibility. Beyond his professional achievements, Bill brings this care home. He designed and built a green home on the Mississippi River, living his values each day through energy efficiency and mindful care for the land. His work and life serve as a reminder that stewardship begins with how we show up, innovate, and live in balance with the places we love.
Steve Waderich: A Lifelong Commitment to Sustainability in Community Spaces
For more than 40 years, Steve Waderich has transformed one of Minnesota’s busiest urban spaces, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, into a model of environmental care. Long before “sustainability” became a buzzword, Steve was implementing it. From creating a reusable sharps collection system to leading native landscaping and stormwater abatement projects, his vision has touched every corner of the hospital campus.
Because of Steve’s persistence and leadership, the hospital’s new building is on track to be the first LEED-certified building in the Allina Health system. The impact of his efforts stretches beyond the hospital walls: cleaner air in south Minneapolis, less pollution reaching the Mississippi River, and more pollinator habitat in the heart of the city.
Steve’s story highlights an essential aspect of stewardship: it’s not just about caring for the land, but also about caring for the people who share it. His initiatives required collaboration, trust, and long-term commitment from an entire community of coworkers and partners. Through decades of quiet leadership, Steve has shown what it means to put care into action.
Caring for Place, Building Trust Across Difference
Bill and Steve’s stories remind us that care for Minnesota doesn’t look just one way; it’s practiced in labs and in hospitals, along rivers and on rooftops, in cities and small towns alike. Their work shows that we can build a future where care for place and connection to one another are not separate goals, but shared ones.
If their stories inspire you, take the Upstream Pledge today and help us care for Minnesota, together. Take the Pledge or Donate at mnupstream.org