Over the past few years, our dynamic Southern California region has seen some of the most rapid growth in the country, as well as deep economic impact and retrenchment of key industry sectors. These fluctuations directly impact our quality of life and our ability to maintain clean, healthy, functional and resilient communities. As we embark once again on a period of regional growth, we must be more conscientious than ever about the direct and indirect costs of the decisions we make and seek to understand their long-term environmental consequences.
To help address this need for environmental knowledge and perspective, California State University San Marcos at Temecula has developed an Environmental Leadership Academy. The Academy engages regional business, civic and community leaders, professionals, students, area citizens and community members on a wide range of policies, programs and initiatives that are essential to economic wellbeing.
Now in its fourth year, the Academy provides a balanced education to support sound decision-making, solutions, and best practices. Students learn from experts across a variety of topics including: land use change, energy, transportation, air and water quality, population growth, waste and recycling, biodiversity, watershed management and many others. The Academy is designed as a four-month program that meets once a month for two days (on a Thursday and Friday) starting in September. Activities include expert lectures, roundtable discussions, field trips, and guided tours of some of the most remarkable locations in the area.
Our “students” come from a diverse cross section of the industry, representing both public and private sectors, community organizations, agencies and corporations. If you or someone you know might be interested in joining the Academy, please visit us online at: www.csusm.edu/el/ela. Spaces fill quickly. This is a memorable, thought provoking program you won’t want to miss!