Introduction
On a notable Wednesday, the University of Colorado Boulder took a significant step towards fostering inclusivity, advancing environmental science education, and catalyzing career growth for upcoming scientists by unveiling a new foundational center. Nested within the esteemed bounds of the Boulder campus’ Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) – among CU Boulder’s most prominent research institutes – this novel initiative has been christened the CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation (CEEE).
Foundational Aims and Ambitions
Bridging Gaps Between Science and Society
Under the leadership of Anne Gold, who helms the CEEE, the center is poised to forge a meaningful connection between empirical scientific research and its tangible impacts within society. The overarching intention is to capacitate individuals, transforming them into well-informed agents of change adept at navigating and mitigating environmental challenges. “Our goal revolves around the concept of empowerment through knowledge and engagement, aiming to trigger a ripple effect of positive environmental transformation,” Anne Gold articulated during a brief announcement.
Empowering Through Education
With over 30 dynamic projects under its belt, the CEEE is pioneering in its approach to environmental education and engagement. Noteworthy among these is the HEART Force curriculum, which leans on small-group interactive activities and scenario-based gaming to bolster the resilience of students, teachers, and broader communities against environmental adversities. Another avant-garde project is We are Water – a mobile exhibition that melds communal wisdom with science to enlighten rural, Indigenous, and Latino populations in the desert Southwest about water’s crucial role and challenges.
Cultivating a New Environmental Consciousness
Inspiring Future Generations
The essence of CEEE’s mission extends beyond immediate educational objectives to inspire an upcoming wave of learners. By equipping them with the confidence and comprehension necessary to confront environmental issues head-on, CEEE envisions a future where the environmental and geosciences sectors are as inclusive as they are impactful. “It is our sincere hope,” Gold reflected, “that by igniting a spark of curiosity and determination in young minds, we can collectively usher in an era where tackling environmental difficulties becomes a shared and inclusive endeavor.”
Inviting Community Engagement
Marking a significant milestone in its nascent journey, the CEEE has extended an open invitation to the public for an inaugural visit. The event, scheduled to unfold from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday at 1333 Grandview Ave., is poised to serve as a gateway for the community to explore the center’s ambitions and offerings firsthand. This opportunity for engagement underscores CEEE’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and the democratization of environmental science education.
