Over 50 Years At UVM

In 1970 UVM President Edward Andrews, M.D., convinced of the inextricable links between human health and environmental health, commissioned an advisory group to define and scope a “university-wide” Environmental Program with an “…obligation to educate students to be deeply aware of ecological imperatives and to prepare them to live in a manner compatible with human survival.” In 1972, the Environmental Program was established making it one of, if not the, oldest campus-wide environmental initiatives in the country. The goals of the program were multifaceted and included educating students, staff and faculty, hosting seminars, workshops and conferences, developing and delivering curriculum, and connecting with local, state, and nation-wide institutions to solve environmental problems. 50 years after its innargual student body of seven students, the Environmental Program can now boast itself as a catalyst for a campus where there are 14 environment-focused majors across five schools and colleges, representing almost 25% of the student population. The study of the environment has truly become a university-wide success.

students with banner for 50th anniversary of environmental program

What We Do

Now that the study of the environment, the training of students, faculty and staff, and co-curricular programming in environmental issues is embedded across the entire campus, the nature of the Environmental Program has changed.
fall forest at raven ridge in charlotte vt

UVM Natural Areas

In 1974, UVM took a leadership role in conserving Vermont’s ecological treasures. The establishment of a system of natural areas underscored the program's commitment to protecting natural landscapes.
eagle flying over lake and mountains

History

Founded in 1972 in response to growing environmental concerns, the University of Vermont's Environmental Program, under its first director Carl Reidel, emphasized experiential learning, sustainability, and policy engagement.