Join USF’s Climate Teach-In: Empowering the Community with Sustainable Solutions and Environmental Awareness

USF’s fourth annual Climate Teach-In is shaping up to be a landmark event, featuring the largest lineup in its history. This year, there are 35 events, doubling last year’s total of 18. The activities will span across all three USF campuses from Monday to Saturday, engaging students and faculty in meaningful climate conversations.

What began as a modest educational effort in 2021 has blossomed into one of the university’s most extensive environmental initiatives. Luke Vischio-Duffy, a student involved in organizing the Teach-In, emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration this year. “We are involving more students, faculty, and local partners than ever before,” said Vischio-Duffy, a sophomore studying secondary English education.

The Climate Teach-In aligns with a global movement originally launched by Bard College in New York in 2019, now recognized as “Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week.” USF introduced this initiative under the guidance of Andrew Hargrove, a professor at the Judy Genshaft Honors College, who remains a key advisor.

This year’s Teach-In is not just about lectures. Events are designed to be engaging and interactive. For example, BLOOM, a student group dedicated to environmental education, will host a screening of “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind,” an eco-conscious animated film. “We wanted to create a fun environment for engagement,” Vischio-Duffy explained, highlighting how movies can facilitate reflections on environmental themes.

Other exciting activities include a “Stride for Sustainability” 5K run hosted by the USF Running Club and a “Zero Waste Workshop” on Thursday. The Teach-In will also showcase a climate-themed art exhibit and a Sustainable Cooking Class led by Chef Rosana Rivera. These events aim to reach a broad audience, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

On Saturday, participants can join a group bike ride to Zio’s New York Bagel shop. This 22-mile ride is beginner-friendly, promoting both fitness and environmental awareness. “We aim to create an inclusive atmosphere,” an organizer noted. Meanwhile, the Arm Wrestling Club will host “Strength in Sustainability,” blending competition with climate discussions, inviting all skill levels to participate.

According to Morgan Matthews, the Climate Teach-In’s community outreach coordinator, hands-on experience and fun are key values this year. Matthews, who has been part of the initiative for three years, is excited about the potential impact. “We’ve worked tirelessly to expand this initiative,” she said. Students can earn raffle prizes for attending multiple events, incentivizing participation and engagement.

As interest in climate action grows, initiatives like the Climate Teach-In reflect a broader shift in how educational institutions approach environmental issues. Research from the American College Health Association shows that awareness and concern about climate change among college students have increased significantly in recent years. Nearly 70% of students express a desire for more action on climate change from their universities.

This surge of interest exemplifies a collective push for creative, community-driven climate education. “Seeing how the Climate Teach-In has evolved motivates our entire team,” Matthews shared. “It’s about making climate education accessible and impactful.” The event’s growth is a testament to the dedication of students who want to make a difference.

As environmental challenges continue to escalate globally, initiatives like USF’s Climate Teach-In play a crucial role in shaping future leaders and informed citizens committed to sustainability.

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