Niagara University in Ontario Hosts Earth Week Lectures

Students in Niagara University in Ontario's teacher education program heard from two climate experts to learn more about including environmental- and sustainability-related topics into their classroom curriculums and their role, as educators, in fostering meaningful change. The presentations were hosted by the campus's Climate Sustainability Action Team.

Dr. Alysse Kennedy, a researcher and teacher who specializes in environmental and sustainability education and climate justice, gave the first lecture on April 22, which emphasized the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives on land into environmental education. Dr. Patrick Maher, professor of physical and health education at Nipissing University and an interdisciplinary scholar with extensive experience in community-engaged teaching, outdoor learning, and climate-related education, gave the second presentation on April 24. He currently serves as managing editor of the Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning.

Dr. Asma Ahmed, chair and assistant professor of education; Dr. Laura Hermans-Nymark, assistant professor; lecturers Shivu Ishwaran and Sharon Singh; and Dr. Evan Clarke, senior associate dean of Ontario graduate programs, organized the presentations.