Drew Hosts 2025 Global Summit on Climate Education

This inspiring event brought together educators and school leaders for powerful conversations about the future of climate education and action. Participants examined how schools can develop students as engaged global citizens while addressing the growing concerns of climate anxiety among young people.

Our faculty, administrators, and students played pivotal roles throughout the conference. Drew’s expertise in climate education was showcased through several faculty-led sessions. Biology and Marine Science Teacher Mary Kerr presented on implementing interdisciplinary approaches to climate change education, showcasing our Climate Academy offering, while Kim McCabe, Director of Experiential Learning, shared her insights as a panelist discussing climate education through hands-on learning experiences. Lauren Railey, Assistant Head for Academics, facilitated a session on professional learning and partnerships in climate education.

Additionally, Drew’s Head of School, Saya McKenna, opened the proceedings alongside Drew student Kiran C. '26. Later, McKenna also moderated a panel on "Insights from Student Leaders in Climate Action," which featured Drew student Victoria G. '27, sharing her perspectives on youth climate leadership.

In speaking with Victoria about her experience participating on the panel, she said “It was really interesting and inspiring. I got to meet the other panelists who are all from different places around California, and it was very cool hearing about their experiences and the differing issues in the places where they’re from.” Victoria also added that she thinks it is a great approach to focus on younger people, and that she is inspired to do more and expand the activities she is involved in.

The summit provided a unique opportunity for attendees to explore the latest trends, strategies, and tools to enhance climate education at all levels. From discussions on sustainability programs and civic engagement to partnerships with local artists and immersive learning models, the summit showcased how schools can rethink their educational practices to better address environmental challenges.

By fostering collaboration across disciplines, the summit demonstrated how schools can support the next generation of climate leaders while preparing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to take meaningful action.