Second Nature

Applications are now open for the AASHE Campus Decarbonization Academy! Second Nature is proud to partner with AASHE, APPA, I2SL, NACUBO, and SCUP to offer this program designed to help higher education institutions achieve their carbon neutrality goals. Through expert-led sessions, collaborative learning, and actionable resources, the Academy provides the tools necessary for implementing effective decarbonization strategies. For members of the Climate Leadership Network, this is a great opportunity to accelerate progress toward your Climate and Resilience Commitments while driving meaningful climate action. Applications are open — apply here: https://lnkd.in/dzmYT9YH

Reflections from the 2025 Climate Leadership Summit: Just blocks from the White House—providing a welcome contrast to the recent barrage of proposed federal rollbacks on clean energy and climate funding—over 380 higher education leaders gathered in Washington D.C. at Second Nature’s annual Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit to strategize, mobilize, and push for bold climate action. The message was clear: we must expand, defend, and accelerate climate solutions. Read key takeaways and our full Summit recap here: https://lnkd.in/gA4eNhVK

The 2025 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit wrapped up with an inspiring student panel, reminding us that while staff and faculty play essential roles in driving climate action, #students are the current and future leaders essential for societal transformation. We heard from passionate students like Kennedy Copeland, Isabella Stratas, Theo Daniels, Rebecca Rudolph, Ayana Thomas, and Tyler Wyka, who are significantly impacting their campuses and beyond. Their stories of motivation, personal growth, and aspirations for the next decade highlighted the need for strong role models, recognition, and institutional support to advance meaningful change. Georges Dyer,?Paris Prince,?Aicha Ly, and?Sorelle Ngatchou represented our team at this year's Summit, while?Nicole Torrico,?Noreen Marton, and?Bella A.?ensured our members’ needs were met at the office. As we reflect on the insights shared, we look forward to implementing the strategies discussed, strengthening the connections made, and continuing to take climate action with a holistic and collaborative approach. Georgetown University The George Washington University American University #2025ClimateSummit #ClimateAction #HigherEducation #StudentLeadership #Sustainability #Summit2025

As the Summit comes to a close, let’s take time to reflect on the powerful conversations that took place, the inspiration we have sparked, and the insights gained and bring that electric spirit back to our campuses and communities. The work ahead is uncertain, but the connections we’ve forged and the trust we have built in each other gives us an opportunity to mindfully, strategically, and, ultimately, successfully act on equitable climate action. Thank you to our amazing sponsors, partners, speakers, and to everyone who joined us for this year’s Summit. The journey doesn’t end here—we are just getting started. #2025ClimateSummit

Today, we celebrate the visionaries leading the charge in higher education climate action! The Climate Luminary Honors and Carbon Neutral Awards recognize institutions and individuals driving bold, equitable, and innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Congratulations to this year’s honorees—your leadership is lighting the way for a more just and resilient world! Duke University - Carbon Neutral Award Carleton College - Decarbonization Emory University - Justice University of Pittsburgh - Community Central Community College - Workforce University of Toronto - Research Warren Wilson College - Special Award: Climate Resilience in Action

Day 2 is in full swing! Today is all about forging connections, sparking innovation, and driving meaningful change as we dive into conversations on equity, collaboration, and bold climate solutions. #2025ClimateSummit

A powerful start to the day with a morning welcome and prayer, followed by an inspiring plenary on The Mission of Catholic Higher Education: The Challenge of Integrating Minds, Hearts, and Hands with Sr. Raffaella Petrini, FSE, Secretary General, Governorate of Vatican City State (Vatican News). She emphasized the urgency for “epochal change” and offered four guiding criteria to explore and develop: ?? Keeping formation open to transcendence ?? Offering a space for encounter ?? Fostering a cross-disciplinary approach ?? Developing networks among people and academic institutions The day continued with insightful sessions, including a presentation from the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities and St. Mary's University on the Higher Education Holistic Impact Report. The study highlighted how Catholic colleges and universities excel in key areas compared to secular institutions, reinforcing core values of life, community, and the common good. It was a joy to connect with Presidents from St. Mary's University, Bellarmine University, and so many others throughout the day! The afternoon plenary, led by Brian Rosenberg (Harvard Graduate School of Education) and President Patricia McGuire (Trinity Washington University), tackled the critical question: Is Higher Education Serving the Public Good? The answer is a resounding YES! Institutions, both locally and collectively, must share their stories and showcase the impact they are making to fulfill their social contract with communities. This was followed by an extended session on mission-centered consolidation and strategic partnerships with St. Ambrose University, Mount Mercy University, Lewis University, Mount Saint Mary's University, and Ursuline College. Finding moments for fellowship and breaking bread with amazing people, including those even from the Second Nature #2025ClimateSummit. Looking forward to more conversations on #Sustainability, #ExperientialLearning, #ServiceLearning, #CommunityEngagement, #EngagedScholarship, #HIPs, #ServicioSocial, #AprendizajeServicioSolidario, and #Solidaridad! #2025ACCUAM

This morning, a group of Summit attendees kicked off the event with a powerful visit to the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. A truly immersive and reflective experience that set the tone for the meaningful conversations and connections to come. #2025ClimateSummit #HistoryAndCulture #Inspiration

Day 1 of the 2025 Higher Education Climate Leadership Summit is here! Leaders from across the higher education sector are coming together to build meaningful connections, inspire innovative work, and accelerate climate action and equity. Let’s do this! #2025ClimateSummit #HigherEdClimateAction #HigherEducation #ClimateAction

NEWLY ANNOUNCED! After two years of research and collaboration with over 75 sector experts, Second Nature’s Meredith Leigh spearheads the release of our updated Carbon Markets & Offsets Guidance. View the full guidance here: https://lnkd.in/g99fPpNd