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Rutgers: Canadian Wildfire Smoke Cooled New York by 3 Degrees and Trapped Air Toxicants
NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, April 22 -- Rutgers University issued the following news:
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Canadian Wildfire Smoke Cooled New York by 3 Degrees and Trapped Air Toxicants
By Andrew Smith
When smoke from Canadian wildfires turned New York City skies apocalyptically orange in June 2023, it delivered catastrophic air quality and an unexpected side effect: cooling the New York City region by about 3 degrees Celsius.
This temperature drop, called "global dimming," which is the opposite of "global warming," trapped dangerous pollutants near the ground, according to Rutgers Health researchers who
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NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, April 22 -- Rutgers University issued the following news:
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Canadian Wildfire Smoke Cooled New York by 3 Degrees and Trapped Air Toxicants
By Andrew Smith
When smoke from Canadian wildfires turned New York City skies apocalyptically orange in June 2023, it delivered catastrophic air quality and an unexpected side effect: cooling the New York City region by about 3 degrees Celsius.
This temperature drop, called "global dimming," which is the opposite of "global warming," trapped dangerous pollutants near the ground, according to Rutgers Health researchers whopublished their breakthrough findings in Nature's Communications Earth & Environment.
"With all you hear about the negative consequences of global warming, you might think the cooling would be good," said Philip Demokritou, senior study author and Henry Rutgers chair and professor of nanoscience and environmental bioengineering at the Rutgers School of Public Health and the School of Engineering. "But cooler temperatures are equally bad as global warming. This effect on microclimate can disrupt the hydrological cycle, trap other toxic air compounds and increase human exposure levels."
The researchers studied the physicochemical characteristics of particulate matter during the peak of the Canadian wildfire event, analyzing their light-absorbing and light-scattering properties. They found that the smoke particles, which traveled nearly 1,000 kilometers from Canadian wildfires, produced an unprecedented direct radiative forcing of - 352.4 watts per square meter at ground level.
"The wildfire particulate matter that arrived in the New Jersey and New York City area on June 7 contained mostly brown carbon particles that had not been photobleached completely despite covering a distance of about 800 kilometers," said Georgios Kelesidis, an assistant professor at the Rutgers School of Public Health and lead author of the study.
Scientists determined that the cooling occurred because wildfire smoke contains primarily organic carbon particles that scatter sunlight away from the Earth's surface. Like a smoky umbrella, these particles blocked incoming solar radiation, cooling the areas below. However, this cooling came with dangerous consequences.
By reducing temperature, the smoke layer above the cities limited natural air circulation, preventing pollution dilution and vertical mixing. This mechanism trapped wildfire particles and other urban pollutants near ground level, potentially increasing human exposure to harmful airborne contaminants.
"This study documents for the first time the effect of wildfire nanoparticles on the microclimate of megacities," Demokritou said. "Such ambient air temperature reductions may exacerbate the urban heat island effect and limit the natural ventilation of megacities, exacerbating the exposure to air pollution."
During the event, New York City recorded an unprecedented daily average of particles less than 2.5 micrometers. The totals were more than three times higher than Environmental Protection Agency guidelines and eight times higher than World Health Organization recommendations. The trapped pollutants likely contributed to health impacts throughout the region, Demokritou said, citing recent epidemiological studies in NYC that confirm increased emergency hospital visits and exacerbation of asthma and other respiratory health effects.
The radiative cooling study is part of a larger research effort examining the impacts of the 2023 Canadian wildfires on human health. A companion paper from the same Rutgers team, published in Environmental Science & Technology, revealed another concerning effect: A stunning 9.2 mg of smoke particles were deposited in the lungs of people in the area during the Canadian event and such particles significantly impaired human lung immune defenses.
That study found exposure to wildfire particulate matter reduced the viability of lung macrophages - immune cells that defend against inhaled pathogens - by about 20%. The particles also impaired these cells' ability to engulf foreign invaders by about 50%, potentially increasing vulnerability to respiratory infections.
Three separate epidemiological studies in New York City confirmed real-world health impacts during the event, with asthma-related emergency department visits increasing by 44% to 82% at the wildfire smoke's peak.
As climate change drives more frequent and intense wildfires, these findings highlight complex interactions between wildfire emissions, urban microclimates, and public health. The research demonstrates that beyond the immediate impacts of decreased visibility and breathing difficulties, wildfire smoke creates secondary effects that can amplify and prolong exposure to harmful pollutants.
"Wildfire events have increased in frequency and intensity dramatically due to extreme drought and heat and now affect even the Northeast U.S.," Demokritou said. "This was the first event of this scale in the region, but it probably won't be the last."
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Original text here: https://www.rutgers.edu/news/canadian-wildfire-smoke-cooled-new-york-3-degrees-and-trapped-air-toxicants
Pope Francis' Legacy May Be a 'Bridge Between Tradition and Modernity'
RICHMOND, Virginia, April 22 -- Virginia Commonwealth University issued the following news on April 21, 2025:
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Pope Francis' legacy may be a 'bridge between tradition and modernity'
Religious studies professor Andrew Chesnut outlines the history-making pontiff's impact - and where the Catholic Church may turn next.
By Sian Wilkerson
In 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina became the first Latin American pope elected in the Catholic Church's history. Now, following Pope Francis' death on April 21 at 88, Virginia Commonwealth University religious studies professor R. Andrew Chesnut
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RICHMOND, Virginia, April 22 -- Virginia Commonwealth University issued the following news on April 21, 2025:
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Pope Francis' legacy may be a 'bridge between tradition and modernity'
Religious studies professor Andrew Chesnut outlines the history-making pontiff's impact - and where the Catholic Church may turn next.
By Sian Wilkerson
In 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina became the first Latin American pope elected in the Catholic Church's history. Now, following Pope Francis' death on April 21 at 88, Virginia Commonwealth University religious studies professor R. Andrew Chesnutreflected on the pontiff's emerging legacy.
"Ultimately, Francis' pontificate will be remembered as a bridge between tradition and modernity, championing a faith that prioritizes compassion over condemnation," said Chesnut, Ph.D., the Bishop Walter Sullivan Chair in Catholic Studies and professor in the School of World Studies in VCU's College of Humanities and Sciences.
Chesnut spoke with VCU News about the pope's defining efforts and where the Catholic Church may go after him.
What is most distinctive about Francis' tenure?
Pope Francis' legacy will be defined by his commitment to a more inclusive and merciful Catholic Church, particularly through his emphasis on social justice and outreach to the marginalized. His papacy has been marked by an unprecedented focus on economic inequality, environmental stewardship -- as seen in Laudato Si' [his encyclical, or letter, published in 2015] - and a call for global solidarity in addressing climate change.
Unlike his predecessors, he has softened the church's stance on divisive social issues, promoting pastoral care over doctrinal rigidity, which has endeared him to progressive Catholics but drawn criticism from traditionalists. His efforts to reform the Vatican's financial structures and address clerical abuse scandals, though met with resistance, reflect his broader mission to enhance transparency and accountability within the church.
You've noted how Francis' election indicated a new focus on the global south for the church. What are the results?
Despite Pope Francis' deep cultural and spiritual connection to his native Latin America, which is home to 39% of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics, he has been unable to stem the rapid decline of Catholicism in a region where Pentecostalism, alternative religious movements and secularism continue to gain ground.
His emphasis on social justice and economic inequality resonates with many, but it has not matched the strong appeal of Pentecostal churches, which offer a more personal, charismatic faith experience focused on the here and now. Additionally, longstanding scandals involving clerical sexual abuse and corruption have further eroded trust in the Catholic Church, particularly among younger generations disillusioned with institutional religion.
While Francis has revitalized Catholic social teaching, his reforms have not been enough to counter the growing competition from Pentecostalism and the rising tide of the Religious Nones in his homeland. That he never made an official trip to his homeland of Argentina, where the church has lost many members under his watch, is emblematic of his failure to revitalize the faith in Latin America.
Where do you see the Catholic Church going from here?
Possibly presided over by the first African pope, the Catholic Church will likely move in a more traditionalist direction after Pope Francis - emphasizing doctrinal orthodoxy, reinforcing teachings on issues like sexuality, marriage and priestly celibacy.
A conservative successor could roll back Francis' pastoral flexibility, prioritizing strict adherence to moral theology over the inclusive tone that has defined the current papacy. This shift would energize traditionalist Catholics, particularly in regions like the United States and parts of Europe, but risks alienating the younger, more progressive faithful who have embraced Francis' emphasis on mercy and social justice.
The church's engagement with pressing global issues, such as climate change and economic inequality, could also take a backseat to a renewed focus on evangelization and internal discipline. A return to a more rigid ecclesial structure may consolidate conservative Catholicism's influence, but it could also accelerate the church's struggles with declining membership and cultural relevance in an increasingly secular world.
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Original text here: https://news.vcu.edu/article/2025/04/pope-francis-legacy-may-be-a-bridge-between-tradition-and-modernity
Penn College Dual Enrollment Programs Benefit From JSSB Gift
WILLIAMSPORT, Pennsylvania, April 22 -- The Pennsylvania College of Technology issued the following news:
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Penn College Dual Enrollment programs benefit from JSSB gift
Jersey Shore State Bank recently made a gift to support Penn College Dual Enrollment, a program that allows academically qualified high school and career and technology education center students to take Penn College courses tuition-free during their regular school day.
The bank provided a $7,000 gift to the program through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program.
Penn College Dual Enrollment works with nearly 70
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WILLIAMSPORT, Pennsylvania, April 22 -- The Pennsylvania College of Technology issued the following news:
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Penn College Dual Enrollment programs benefit from JSSB gift
Jersey Shore State Bank recently made a gift to support Penn College Dual Enrollment, a program that allows academically qualified high school and career and technology education center students to take Penn College courses tuition-free during their regular school day.
The bank provided a $7,000 gift to the program through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program.
Penn College Dual Enrollment works with nearly 70high schools and career and technology centers across Pennsylvania, allowing more than 2,000 students to earn over 7,000 Penn College credits.
"Jersey Shore State Bank's investment in Penn College Dual Enrollment empowers high school students to experience the vast opportunities of an applied technology education," said Elizabeth A. Biddle, Penn College's senior director of grant management. "We are grateful for steadfast commitment to tomorrow's workforce."
"Jersey Shore State Bank is committed to investing in the local community and region," said Garrett Sanner, regional president. "Providing a tax credit gift to support Penn College Dual Enrollment, providing the opportunity for high school students to access college courses is a win-win-win for the students, the community, the college and Jersey Shore State Bank."
Jersey Shore State Bank , which has provided support to Penn College for over 40 years, is a member of the Visionary Society ($100,000-$499,999) on the college's Donor Wall, which pays permanent tribute to the individuals, families, organizations and businesses who have made significant contributions to the college.
The Penn College Foundation is approved as an Educational Improvement Organization under the EITC program administered by the state Department of Community & Economic Development.
Those wishing to explore giving opportunities at Penn College may visit the College Relations giving site or call 570-320-8020.
For more about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education and a special mission affiliate of Penn State, visit www.pct.edu, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.
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Original text here: https://www.pct.edu/news/articles/2025/04/21/penn-college-dual-enrollment-programs-benefit-from-jssb-gift
New Spaces for NMSU Engineering Facilitate Transformative Learning Experiences
LAS CRUCES, New Mexico, April 22 -- New Mexico State University issued the following news release:
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New spaces for NMSU Engineering facilitate transformative learning experiences
Our goal at the College of Engineering at New Mexico State University is to prepare our students for success in their next endeavors, whether they are entering the workforce or pursuing further education. With graduation just weeks away, they possess the knowledge, skills and creativity to improve the quality of life for others in myriad ways.
Central to achieving this mission is access to state-of-the-art equipment
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LAS CRUCES, New Mexico, April 22 -- New Mexico State University issued the following news release:
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New spaces for NMSU Engineering facilitate transformative learning experiences
Our goal at the College of Engineering at New Mexico State University is to prepare our students for success in their next endeavors, whether they are entering the workforce or pursuing further education. With graduation just weeks away, they possess the knowledge, skills and creativity to improve the quality of life for others in myriad ways.
Central to achieving this mission is access to state-of-the-art equipmentand facilities, and we are fortunate to be making progress toward two new transformative spaces that will significantly advance this goal. This mission is not ours alone -- it is shared and supported by many individuals and organizations that make it possible.
One significant step toward this goal is the recent groundbreaking for the construction of the New Mexico Mutual Metal Additive Manufacturing Center. The new center, funded in part by a generous donation from New Mexico Mutual, will provide advanced capabilities in metal manufacturing through metal 3D printing, expanding the offerings of the Aggie Innovation Space machine shop and student-managed makerspace. The facility will give faculty members and students access to cutting-edge resources to create prototypes and design projects, while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
This initiative also positions NMSU as a driving force for economic development in the Borderplex region, supporting growth in advanced manufacturing, logistics, job creation and workforce development.
Another major advancement is the rebuilding of Thomas and Brown Hall, home of the Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, with support from state funding. Demolition is currently underway on the original building, constructed in 1971, to make way for a modern facility designed to enhance the educational infrastructure for engineering students and faculty. In addition to upgraded laboratories and classrooms, the new building will feature experiential, multidisciplinary learning spaces that promote collaboration.
These new facilities will serve as resources that extend beyond the College of Engineering. They will be available to students and faculty from across NMSU, offering opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary projects, collaborate with industry partners and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Both projects build on NMSU's existing strengths in critical and emerging areas such as hypersonics, water, cybersecurity, energy and advanced manufacturing, providing a strong foundation for continued research and innovation. These initiatives were brought to life through the vision of several individuals, including former College of Engineering Dean Lakshmi Reddi; Assistant Dean of Experiential Learning and Student Success and Interim Associate Dean of Academics Gabe Garcia; and Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Head Steve Stochaj.
The realization of each facility is the result of the dedication and support of many, and we are deeply grateful to all who have prioritized the future of our students and our university.
New Mexico voters approved the demolition and reconstruction of Thomas and Brown Hall by passing the allocation of $22.5 million through the 2022 General Obligation Bond, which was later supplemented with $10 million from the state's General Fund in 2024. Our elected officials played a critical role in securing this support. Alongside them, generous private donors -- many of whom are long-standing contributors to the college -- have provided additional funding to bring this project to fruition.
New Mexico Mutual, which funded the Metal Additive Manufacturing Center, has been a steadfast supporter of NMSU and workforce development across the state. Inspiration for the gift came following a 2022 visit by New Mexico Mutual CEO Kellie Mixon and Vice President of Marketing Claudia Sanchez. This facility will establish NMSU as a leader in advanced manufacturing and help stimulate economic growth throughout New Mexico.
The vision and generosity of each supporter of these facilities represent a profound investment in the future of engineering education at NMSU. We are sincerely thankful for their unwavering commitment to innovation, student success and the advancement of engineering education in New Mexico. These state-of-the-art environments for learning, research and collaboration ensure that our current and future students and faculty have the tools they need to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.
David V. Jauregui is the interim dean for the College of Engineering at New Mexico State University. He may be reached at jauregui@nmsu.edu.
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Original text here: https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/new-spaces-for-nmsu-engineering-facilitate-transformative-learning-experiences/s/326129a7-48ef-434a-8220-9c062af63032
Miami University Acquires New Third-generation DNA Sequencing Technology, First in Midwest
OXFORD, Ohio, April 22 -- Miami University issued the following news:
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Miami University acquires new third-generation DNA sequencing technology, first in Midwest
Revolutionary system will accelerate research timelines
By Lauren Smetzer
Miami University's Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics (CBFG) has become one of the first institutions in the region to acquire the PacBio VEGA Benchtop System -- a cutting-edge DNA sequencer currently found in only 20 laboratories nationwide.
This revolutionary acquisition -- installed and certified operational on March 20 -- not only slashes
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OXFORD, Ohio, April 22 -- Miami University issued the following news:
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Miami University acquires new third-generation DNA sequencing technology, first in Midwest
Revolutionary system will accelerate research timelines
By Lauren Smetzer
Miami University's Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics (CBFG) has become one of the first institutions in the region to acquire the PacBio VEGA Benchtop System -- a cutting-edge DNA sequencer currently found in only 20 laboratories nationwide.
This revolutionary acquisition -- installed and certified operational on March 20 -- not only slashesresearch wait times from months to days but also positions Miami's undergraduates for an unprecedented hands-on experience with technology typically reserved for major research institutions.
The VEGA system is a third generation DNA sequencing technology enabling the sequencing of much larger DNA fragments compared to earlier methods. It can. dramatically accelerate research timelines,such as reducing the wait for DNA sequencing from three to four months to just two to three days for a complete human genome. This leap in efficiency opens new possibilities for time-sensitive research projects and allows Miami researchers to pursue more ambitious projects.
"These are the kind of technological advances that allow us to ask questions we didn't even know to ask," said Andor Kiss, director of the center, highlighting the potential of the new instrument. The center provides tools for preparing DNA samples for research and for determining the sequence of these DNA samples.
Funding for the $170,000 VEGA instrument was made possible with support from the College of Arts and Sciences; the Department of Biology; the Department of Microbiology; Department of Biological Sciences; and the CBFG.
Miami researchers have already planned several innovative projects utilizing the VEGA system. Zheng Li, assistant professor of Biology and director of the Willard Sherman Turrell Herbarium, intends to sequence and build chromosome-level genomes of plant and insect species. Meanwhile, Rock Mancini, assistant professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, plans to use the instrument to develop more effective immunotherapies for multidrug-resistant cancers.
The VEGA acquisition also creates exceptional educational opportunities. Kiss, also an adjunct assistant professor of Biology, plans to reintroduce an advanced molecular biology laboratory course in fall 2025, last offered in 2014, giving students hands-on training with this new technology that could lead to producing publishable research.
"It's really what separates and makes Miami unique," Kiss noted about bringing advanced technology directly into undergraduate research experiences.
According to Kiss, the system's $1,100 per-run operating cost -- $500 less than the university's existing Illumina MiSeq system -- will make it more accessible to Miami researchers and graduate students applying for in-house grants.
The VEGA instrument complements two other DNA sequencing technologies already available at Miami. Each has distinct strengths for different research applications, but what makes the VEGA unique is its ability to sequence large DNA fragments at once, producing more complete and accurate datasets.
Historically, long reads have been very low quality ... What PacBio has been able to do in the past four or five years is improve the method of data acquisition so they have improved the quality," Kiss explained. "They have managed to figure out how to use a technology that is inherently inaccurate and improve its accuracy so you get high fidelity long reads."
DNA sequencing -- the ability to read the four bases of DNA that encodes the biological information cells use to function -- has profound implications for disease prevention and treatment, organ transplant transportation, and even understanding how human bodies might fare during space travel. The VEGA system's capabilities put Miami at the forefront of this critical field.
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Original text here: https://miamioh.edu/news/2025/04/miami-university-acquires-new-third-generation-dna-sequencing-technology-first-in-midwest.html
Manchester University Launches Pathway to Bethany Theological Seminary
NORTH MANCHESTER, Indiana, April 22 -- Manchester University issued the following news release:
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Manchester University launches pathway to Bethany Theological Seminary
In partnership with Bethany Theological Seminary, located in Richmond, Ind., Manchester University will begin offering undergraduate students the opportunity to enroll in graduate courses through Bethany.
The initiative allows students to earn both a bachelor's degree from a Brethren-related college or university and a master's degree or graduate certificate from Bethany during a four-to-five-year timeframe, at no additional
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NORTH MANCHESTER, Indiana, April 22 -- Manchester University issued the following news release:
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Manchester University launches pathway to Bethany Theological Seminary
In partnership with Bethany Theological Seminary, located in Richmond, Ind., Manchester University will begin offering undergraduate students the opportunity to enroll in graduate courses through Bethany.
The initiative allows students to earn both a bachelor's degree from a Brethren-related college or university and a master's degree or graduate certificate from Bethany during a four-to-five-year timeframe, at no additionalcost for the graduate courses.
"With Bethany's technology classrooms, Manchester students will be able to participate fully in these courses with students in Richmond, across the country, and internationally, all without needing to travel," said Steven Schweitzer, academic dean and professor at Bethany. "We are pleased to pilot this new initiative beginning in Fall 2025 with Manchester and to strengthen what has been a long-standing relationship between our two schools."
This initiative is a result of several years of conversation between Manchester's Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies and Bethany Theological Seminary. Last year, philosophy and religious studies faculty approached Bethany about creating pathways for students interested in theological studies, and this opportunity was developed in response. MU is the first institution to join this partnership and will pilot the program come fall.
"Our collaboration with Bethany is a bold step toward making advanced education more accessible for students, empowering them to deepen both their academic and spiritual growth," said Stacy Young, president of Manchester University. "I'm confident that this partnership will provide a transformative educational experience that will further equip our students to improve the human condition."
Manchester University is one of six colleges and universities across the United States grounded in the values and traditions of the Church of the Brethren, and welcomes persons of all faith traditions and provides opportunities to explore, develop and nurture faith in an environment that respects the infinite worth of every person.
Bethany Theological Seminary offers five master's degrees and eight graduate certificates. The Seminary provides a pathway for students to earn graduate degrees without additional student or consumer debt. As an innovative learning community grounded in an Anabaptist and Radical Pietist witness, Bethany Theological Seminary empowers every student to lead through spiritual engagement, faith-filled thought and transformative practice so that the world flourishes. Learn more here.
For the media
Contact Katy Gray Brown, professor of peace studies and philosophy, at klgraybrown@manchester.edu.
Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
Our mission and values
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
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Original text here: https://www.manchester.edu/about-manchester/Manchester-University-News/MU-news-page/news/2025/04/21/manchester-university-launches-pathway-to-bethany-theological-seminary
Bowdoin College: Auden Schendler '92, in a Campus Talk, Urges Students to Take Responsibility for the Environment
BRUNSWICK, Maine, April 22 -- Bowdoin College issued the following news:
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Auden Schendler '92, in a Campus Talk, Urges Students To Take Responsibility for the Environment
By Lily Echeverria
Schendler returned to his alma mater on Friday, April 18 to discuss modern environmentalism and his recent book, Terrible Beauty: Reckoning with Climate Complicity and Rediscovering our Soul, published by Harvard Business Review Press in 2024.
The tables were filled in Mills Hall as Schendler spoke about the power that corporations and individuals have to make a difference on the climate, while weaving
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BRUNSWICK, Maine, April 22 -- Bowdoin College issued the following news:
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Auden Schendler '92, in a Campus Talk, Urges Students To Take Responsibility for the Environment
By Lily Echeverria
Schendler returned to his alma mater on Friday, April 18 to discuss modern environmentalism and his recent book, Terrible Beauty: Reckoning with Climate Complicity and Rediscovering our Soul, published by Harvard Business Review Press in 2024.
The tables were filled in Mills Hall as Schendler spoke about the power that corporations and individuals have to make a difference on the climate, while weavingin anecdotes about his family and personal life.
Schendler is a writer, adventurer, and climate leader who graduated from Bowdoin with a degree in biology and environmental studies. His path back to the College has been winding with many jobs, including energy technician, high school teacher, Outward Bound instructor, and think tank analyst. His most recent position is senior vice president of sustainability at Aspen One.
Gabe Sarno '25 introduced Schendler before his talk. "His latest book, Terrible Beauty, looks at the disconnect between what we say we care about--like our kids, the planet, our communities--and how we actually respond to a changing climate," Sarno said. "It's a call to be honest, to take responsibility, and to find courage."
Schendler began by showing a video of his son chopping wood, and described the profound gratification his son showed when his action was met with success. He connected this to a greater idea of sustainability.
"So what you're looking at here is human thriving, sustainability," Schendler said. "That's what we're talking about, the ability of all people to experience that kind of a thriving life is what we're looking for when we talk about a sustainable future and when we talk about environmentalism."
Schendler continued with maps and graphs predicting how dry soil will become in the coming years, returning again and again to how this will affect all that we love. "These things we love so much--our children, our communities, the natural world, Bowdoin--they're so stunningly beautiful, and yet they're all being threatened," he said.
He touched on the importance of schools like Bowdoin in a time when things can feel so dire. "There are things we like to do as human beings that require that we not live in a survival society. These things, they seem superfluous: art, culture, sport, literature, poetry--but you all know, especially here at a liberal arts school, they're not superfluous," he said.
"These are the things that advance society....If you live in a world where you're constantly battling the next flood or something, you don't get to do that. That's the threat of a climate change world."
He shifted to speaking about the role of corporate sustainability in today's environmental movement. He spoke of the moment he realized he did not just want to be a part of the status quo, and said he took tha job with Aspen One to create meaningful change from within the business world.
"We started asking the question 'What matters?' and what would actually drive change, and where our power is," Schendler said.
Schendler closed with a reminder of how human inclinations and climate activism go hand in hand. He urged students to take action, promising them it will not just improve the world but also improve their own lives.
"If you're presented with an opportunity to work on climate change in a meaningful and not token way, and in the process of doing that add meaning to your life--endowing your life with some of the oldest aspirations humans have ever had, the notion of living a graceful life, a dignified life--I don't think you can help but do it."
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Original text here: https://www.bowdoin.edu/news/2025/04/auden-schendler-92.html
