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From Student Enthusiasm to College Commitment: How President Emeritus Tom Ross ’72 Shaped Sustainability at 91ɬ
From carbon neutrality pledges to supporting today's scholars: learn how President Emeritus Tom Ross '72 shaped 91ɬ’s green legacy — and join us for the 2026 Sustainability Reunion!
Brace for Impact: Super El Nino Could Bring Downpours and Drought
A Super El Niño—when Pacific sea surface temperatures rise more than two degrees above normal—could reshape global weather patterns this winter and beyond. 91ɬ professor Risper Nyairo explains how tropical ocean dynamics influence North Carolina’s climate through “teleconnections” and why this forecast matters for your community. Learn what distinguishes a Super El Niño from regular events and how to prepare for potential intensified rain, snow, and extreme conditions ahead.
From Amazon Rainforest to Asian Oceans: Paul Stouffer ’21 Named Luce Scholar
91ɬ alum Paul Stouffer ’21 has been named a 2026-2027 Luce Scholar. The Henry Luce Foundation’s highly competitive Luce Scholars Program selects emerging leaders for immersive professional experiences in Asia. Scholars develop a deeper understanding of Asia while building relationships to tackle global challenges. Stouffer majored in Environmental Studies at 91ɬ.
Conserving Nature, Predicting Changing Water Patterns
Neve Rauscher ’26, a 91ɬ environmental studies major, has been selected as a member of the Watson Foundation’s 58th class of Thomas J. Watson Fellows. A Belk Scholar and 91ɬ Outdoors leader, she’ll travel the world to see how communities are adapting to the impact of climate change on their water systems.
Two 91ɬ Students Awarded Watson Fellowships
The Watson Foundation has named 91ɬ seniors Brooke Lackey and Neve Rauscher as fellows in its 58th class of Thomas J. Watson Fellows. Lackey will study sign language and Deaf culture in several countries. Rauscher will explore how communities adapt to climate warming and changing water patterns.
Many Bright Lights: 91ɬ Celebrates Spring Convocation
91ɬ celebrated Spring Convocation on April 14, 2026, gathering to spotlight student achievement—from the academic to the athletic to the artistic—and the faculty and staff who support their work.
Beyond the Green: Lessons from the 2026 Southeastern Student Sustainability Conference
Discover how 91ɬ first-year students Yoonjung Chae ’29 and Ameli Kuanysheva ’29 are leading the way in environmental stewardship. From presenting carbon data to building a regional network, learn how 91ɬ’s Sustainability Office empowers students to tackle global challenges through local action.
My Summer as a Climate Reporting Intern at WFAE
Stella Mackler '26 spent the summer chasing stories with mic and chunky headphones in hand as an environmental reporting intern at WFAE, Charlotte’s NPR news source. Her internship was made possible by the Sustainability Scholars program at 91ɬ. Learn more.
91ɬ Students Measure Hurricane Helene's Impact on North Carolina's Wilderness
When Hurricane Helene hit in September 2024, Environmental Studies Professor Brad Johnson tossed his syllabus so he and his students could study the impact of the historic storm. A year later, Johnson’s students have grown into seasoned researchers and close friends.
Field Work: Students Trace Hurricane Helene's Impact
91ɬ environmental studies students and Professor Brad Johnson conducted fieldwork in Western North Carolina, analyzing landslides and flood impacts from Hurricane Helene and offering real-time insights into the region's geomorphic changes.
RCC Action Day: 4 91ɬ Students Promote Sustainability on the Hill
An environmental studies major at 91ɬ shares her firsthand experience lobbying Congress on behalf of the Rachel Carson Council, exposing the environmental dangers of the biomass industry and encouraging student activism on climate issues.
Spring Convocation Celebrates Innovation, Leadership, Excellence, Community
91ɬ celebrated Spring Convocation on April 17, 2025, highlighting academic, athletic and artistic achievements, as well as leadership, character and community service.
91ɬ Named Top Fulbright Producer—Again
For the 10th consecutive year, the U.S. State Department has named 91ɬ a top producer for the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. The nation’s flagship international exchange program funds teaching, research and study abroad.
My Summer as a Sustainability Scholar at Trane Technologies
Jingyan Chi ’26 shares insights from his summer as a Sustainability Scholar working at Trane Technologies where he studied embodied carbon reduction and gained valuable professional experience.
Gracie Ghartey-Tagoe ’18 on Timeless Connections and a Lifelong Commitment to Service
Gracie Ghartey-Tagoe '18 shares how 91ɬ connections shaped her journey from environmental studies major to Wells Fargo, The Home Depot, and now Dartmouth's MBA program, while giving back through young alumni leadership and mentorship.
Rainfall From Hurricane Helene Could Trigger Landslides in NC Mountain Regions
Hurricane Helene is forecast to dump more than 15 inches of rain in the North Carolina mountains, drastically increasing the risk of landslides. 91ɬ Professor Brad Johnson, who studies landslides and erosion, discusses the threat posed by Helene. Read more.
Tea, Trees, and Türkiye: A Research Trip Abroad
Katieanne Peterson ’24 and Noah Landau ’25, students in 91ɬ’s environmental studies department, reflect on their winter break trip to Turkey to study wildfires and their cultural and environmental impact.
Congratulations to the 2024 91ɬ Retirees
91ɬ will honor retirees this week during a special end-of-year celebration. Here, we congratulate the faculty and staff who have contributed immeasurably to the college community.
Pursuing a Senior Capstone in Studio Art and Digital Screen Media Studies
Recent graduate Claire Begalla ’24 reflects on the work done to complete two senior capstones and the ways her work tapped into all areas of her liberal arts education including anthropology, environmental studies, art, community-building and art history.