Academics, School of Science, Sustainability

Siena has established the Academic Center for Sustainability as part of its ongoing strategic efforts to promote environmental stewardship and sustainability both on campus and in the surrounding community. 

Kate Meierdiercks, Ph.D., associate professor of environmental studies and sciences, will serve as director of the new Center. 

“Professor Meierdiercks brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of sustainability and environmental science, and we are confident that she will lead the Center to great success,” said John Cummings, Ph.D., dean of the School of Science. “We look forward to the active participation of the entire Siena community.”

The Center will offer a variety of programs, including workshops, research opportunities, and community outreach events. It aligns with Siena’s separate but complementary initiative, Laudato Sí, led by Br. Michael Perry to promote Pope Francis’ vision of integral ecology into all aspects of life at Siena, in collaboration with ongoing efforts for sustainability at other institutions, governments and faiths. 

“Siena is committed to integrating the Catholic tradition and liberal arts education with the principles of sustainability, and we believe that working collaboratively, these two initiatives will lead to innovative solutions to the complex environmental challenges facing Siena College, our regional community, and, indeed, our world,” said Provost Margaret E. Madden, Ph.D.

Meierdiercks will work with Academic Affairs over the summer to develop new programming for the Center. 

“Siena will be helping to educate a new generation of leaders who can develop the most effective ways to protect people and the planet. Many colleges and companies have sustainability offices that address energy efficiency or recycling; our approach is distinctive because we will examine important, far-reaching sustainability questions from multidisciplinary perspectives.” 

Kate Meierdiercks, Ph.D., associate professor of environmental studies and sciences