Q&A | Siena University

Yes, I’ve heard about the symposium, but where can I find out more about it?

Check out the schedule that also has the list of topics, speakers, panelists, moderators and other more interactive parts of the symposium:
https://www.siena.edu/centers-institutes/laudato-si/earths-cry-humanitys-call-a-symposium-on-integral-ecology/2024-symposium-schedule/

I’m not studying environmental science so, I guess, this is not for me. Am I right?

Actually, Earth’s Cry, Humanity’s Call has to do with the core mission of Siena College. Earth, our common home is in serious trouble. If we want to survive and thrive, we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines. We need to better understand the problem, which has to do, not just with personal habits of consumption but also with how we make our collective moral values, social and economic decisions. Pope Francis reminds us that we need a comprehensive approach to resolve complex social and environmental, moral and political issues. Universities must play a key role in helping young people to understand the world and empowering them to be part of the solution.
Whether you study science, business, nursing/public health, or whatever other area – the symposium is for you; you, too, are called to be part of the solution. It’s a call to greatness.

Do I have to register for the symposium?

No, you don’t have to register. Come to MAC, swipe your Siena ID card and your presence at every session you attend will be noted.

Why should I bother to swipe my Siena ID every time I enter MAC over the two days of the symposium?

Many faculty members encourage and incentive their students to participate in various parts of the symposium: different speakers and panel discussions; Clean & Just Connection/Sustainability & Climate Justice Fair; time spent at MAC checking out the booths run by different organizations and exploring how you can get involved.
Many First-Year Seminar and other faculty members are offering students extra credit for students who will participate in the symposium and do a special assignment, usually in the form of a reflection (please, check first with a given professor). They will have access to confirm a given student’s participation in a symposium’ session.
Besides, every time a student attends a symposium’s session or takes part in its more interactive activities – and swipes one’s ID card, such student will enter a sweepstake.

What prizes will be raffled off in connection to the symposium?

Are there any particular parts of the symposium I should pay attention to and do my best to attend?

The symposium will begin with Clean & Just Connection: Your Future Can Be Green and Gold. On Thursday from 12:30 to 4 PM. Stop by the MAC even if you only have 15 minutes: check out different booths and how you can use your gifts, talents, interests, passion, or your developing professional career in ways that would contribute to a more just society and sustainable world.
Also, the UN Secretary General addressing Siena students on Thursday night is a once-in-life-time opportunity.
On Friday morning, half an hour before Basil Seggos’ presentation at 9:30 AM, make sure you come to hear what Siena’s President Chuck Seifert and Chair of Siena Board of Trustee have to say. Plus, if you like surprises, you will have an additional reason to be there.