Cornell University
EN-10: Community Partnerships

Abstract: As environmental risks from climate change have become increasingly clear in recent years so has the need to effectively communicate science-based information about this issue to the public. In this project, students will learn about theory-driven and research-based approaches to communicating environmental and sustainability issues and then apply these strategies while working with a campus, community, or national organization. After taking select communication courses in the fall, students will enroll in a seminar during the spring semester designed to prepare them for a summer internship with an organization that is a leader in the sustainability movement. Students will then present a TED-style talk on campus that will assess the outcomes achieved in engaging the public on environmental issues during their internship. Scope: Students enrolled in the course will bring their knowledge and creative thinking to their summer internships which could include local, national, or international connections. Duration: Covers one year though outcomes may extend beyond Commitment: Both on the part of the University by offering this experience and by the individual students by enrolling and participating. Governance: Students would be provided oversight by faculty and others. https://engaged.cornell.edu/recipient/environmental-and-sustainability-communication/

Abstract: The challenge of eradicating hunger is a complex issue. One approach is accessible in every community: gardening. Seed to Supper is a new two-semester course sequence that will teach students how to collaborate with community partners to prepare residents across the state to grow a portion of their own food on a limited budget. Students will teach novice gardeners and prepare facilitators to educate others about the skills of gardening and, equally as important, the nuances of other kinds of growth it can foster. Partnering with local food banks and other agencies, students will lead this facilitator preparation using video conferencing and electronic presentations in three upstate New York regions. The students will also learn about food security issues while working on summer internships that will be offered at food banks throughout the state. Scope: The university is committed to offering this opportunity that will provide students a comprehensive learning experience that will allow them to impact others not only in the local community but statewide and possibly beyond. Duration: The initial experience is about one year in duration. Impacts may extend beyond. Commitment: The University in cooperation with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County has made this type of "theory to practice" opportunity available to students with the hope to provide education to others beyond the University. Governance: Students would be provided oversight by faculty and others. https://engaged.cornell.edu/recipient/seed-to-supper/

Abstract: In 2014, Cornell launched a project in Binghamton as part of its Rust to Green initiative that was created to foster sustainable community development in post-industrial cities in upstate New York. The initiative in Binghamton, Living with Water, is a community-engaged research project addressing the city’s vulnerability to climate change and flooding. Binghamton experienced record flooding in 2006 and 2011, and this project will use a variety of research strategies to engage local and state government officials with residents and artists to achieve community flood resilience. Working with faculty at Cornell and Binghamton University, the students will interview residents who were affected by the 2011 flood. Students will also assess the impact a new play, which will explore living with water, has on community development and flood resilience. Scope: Beyond the Ithaca campus. Students engaged with officials and residents of a neighboring county. Duration: For the extent of the course Committment: University officials committed to developing a partnership with government officials and impacted residents to creatively portray the long term environmental impacts of decisions Governance: Students provided oversight by faculty and others https://engaged.cornell.edu/recipient/rust-to-green-binghamton-living-with-water-initiative/

Cornell is involved in many sustainability initiatives with local, state, and global communities. The Office of Engagement Initiatives and The Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future are two important leaders at Cornell in providing support for community, sustainability initiatives.