Summer Rayne Oakes is a graduate of Cornell University with a Bachelors of Science in Natural Resources and Entomology . In 2000 in the midst of her studies, Oakes embarked on a journey of cause-related modeling and innovative sustainable design/development projects to push sustainability issues through fashion and media, a position that earned her the name of “The Eco-Model. ”

Summer Rayne is an active businesswoman and environmental activist. She is a spokesperson, resident expert, and youngest member of the Board of Advisors for Planet Green, Discovery Network’s eco-lifestyle network that launched in June of 2008. In addition to her media endeavors, Oakes is a partner at the strategic consulting firm, Group SJR. Summer Rayne is highly connected and active in a number of initiatives including the youth climate change-green jobs movement; environmental- and socially-conscious design; and sustainable development, particularly in Africa and the Arctic.

In February of 2009, Summer Rayne released her first book, "Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion and Beauty," which was published by Chronicle Books and became an Amazon.com Bestseller. In April 2009, she launched an environmentally-friendly shoe line with Payless ShoeSource called "zoe&zac," for which she is the model, spokesperson and sustainability strategist.