Facing climate change together: celebrating the Environment's students, alumni and donors

^{By: Advancement team | Estimated reading time: 2:30}

Climate change is one of humanity’s most urgent and complex challenges—a "wicked problem" that requires innovative interdisciplinary solutions and a united front. The Faculty of Environment recognizes that its greatest strength in tackling this crisis is collaboration among alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors, and friends. Together, we are building a community equipped to drive positive change, inspire action, and create a sustainable future.

This spirit of collective impact was on full display at the Evergreen Banquet, where exceptional Environment alumni, students and donors were celebrated. This year’s combined alumni and donor event honored six outstanding individuals who exemplify the values of environmental stewardship and community leadership:Frank Cairo (BES '05), Michael Wulder (MES '96, PhD '98), the Jack Rosen family, Eldon Theodore (BES '02), Sabine Weber (MES '15, PhD '22), and Ashley Salvador (MA '20). These honorees have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to their fields, improving communities and the environment through innovation and action.

The evening was anchored by a panel discussion during which insights on the role of optimism, collaboration, and practical action in addressing global sustainability challenges were shared. With over 120 guests in attendance, the evening highlighted the enduring bonds within our community.  

The power of connection and collaboration

The panel was hosted by director and managing director of the Future Cities Institute by CAIVAN, Leia Minaker and Eryn Stewart, with Distinguished Alumni Achievement award winner and co-founder of CAIVAN, Frank Cairo. Panelists highlighted the work being done at the new Future Cities Institute, founded by CAIVAN, which aims to form a global network of researchers, industry leaders, government, practitioners and students to tackle these issues head-on.

"It's about everyone contributing to the solution,” said Stewart. “No one group holds the key to solving the challenges ahead. We need a collaborative approach, with optimism that is rooted in action. Whether we’re looking at it from an academic, policy, or industry perspective, we all have a role to play."

"The most urgent message we need to hear is that we can do it,” Minaker added. “Hope and optimism need to be at the heart of every decision we make and every action we take. Without them, people stop caring, and they stop trying.”

Audience members in the room were captivated by the panel’s insights, as they divulged a mission to deliver solutions, research, experiences, and toolkits to solve the most complex of situations. CEO and Founder, Frank Cairo, concluded the panel by sharing “we’re looking forward to solving some of the big problems that Canadian and Western cities have faced for years"

Such a mission calls for interdisciplinary collaboration, forward-thinking solutions, and global action and no one is exempt from the call. Students were invited to collaborate and bring their out-of-the-box ideas. Donors and alumni were implored to consider being partners, as they tackle issues from textile waste, to forest management and mitigation, planning, and climate action and advocacy.

Another theme that emerged throughout the event, was the power of the community in supporting students and unlocking new worlds of possibility. Student award recipient and PhD candidate, Navya Nair, shared that the various scholarships she received extends far beyond financial aid and helped her grow as both a researcher and as an individual. Recent Alumni Inspiration Award winner, councilor Ashley Salvador, added that Faculty mentors and fellow alumni taught her so much and continue to inspire her. Finally, Friend of the Faculty and Recent Alumni winners, Shelley Rosen, Sabine Weber, Eldon Theodore, and Frank Cairo, all thanked their mothers for their constant encouragement and sacrifices that allowed them to take on new challenges along their journey. The support they all received is also a big part of why they give back- to cheer on our future leaders and be a part of a caring community that can act as a launchpad for their success.  

The impact of donors on advancing our mission

The unwavering support of our donors plays a pivotal role in driving the Faculty of Environment’s mission forward. Their generosity not only fuels the educational experiences of our students but also empowers them to lead with innovation and purpose in their careers.

Through scholarships, research funding, and community partnerships, our donors help bridge the gap between academic theory and practical, real-world solutions. Their investment in our students and research creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom, enabling graduates to make meaningful contributions to global sustainability efforts.

As we face the climate challenges ahead, it is through these collaborative partnerships  — with our donors at the heart — that we are able to prepare the next generation of environmental leaders to shape a sustainable future for all.

The Faculty of Environment continues to serve as a catalyst for positive change, producing leaders who not only excel in their careers but are committed to building a better, more sustainable world for all.

We are proud to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of this community. Below, are more highlights from the evening. As we look ahead to the next chapter of our community’s story, we remain inspired by the dedication and vision of our community. Their ongoing contributions remind us that the work we do today will shape the world of tomorrow. 

Read about our winners and their impact!