On March 2, the Columbia Climate School hosted its Spring 2023 Sustainable Development Student and Faculty Mixer. Over 100 students, faculty, and alumni from the Undergraduate Sustainable Development Program were able to put aside readings and assignments in exchange for a few hours of socializing and networking. The event was held at Columbia’s Faculty House, where students enjoyed an informal gathering with faculty and alumni discussing course interests, sustainability and climate field pathways, and career advice.
“As our Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development continues to grow and thrive, this mixer is a great way to encourage social connections among our students and faculty,” said co-director Lisa Dale. “It’s always a pleasure to hang out with students outside of class!”
“It was a pleasure to gather with so many faculty and students in our program,” remarked co-director Jason Smerdon. “After a time of great isolation and disconnect it is refreshing and rejuvenating to once again gather and celebrate. I was particularly excited to see many new students in attendance, which speaks to the continuing excitement around, and interest in, the Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development.”
The event brought together current majors and special concentrators with prospective students, allowing them to make a more informed decision with the upcoming major declaration for Columbia College second years. During the event, there was a dedicated moment of silence to honor the loss of Elan Ganeles, a 2022 Sustainable Development alumnus.
“Building community is essential to my role with the Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development,” said program manager Sylvia Montijo. “It brings me joy to see students, faculty, and staff come together and connect in this way. The program and I look forward to bringing more events like these to the Sustainable Development and Climate School communities.”
This semester’s mixer was a resounding success and we look forward to hosting it again next semester. Thank you to this year’s attendees!
For information on upcoming events, please visit the Undergraduate Program in Sustainable Development website.
