University of Wisconsin-Madison

Earth Fest Forum: Climate Courage

Finding Resilience in the Midst of Change

Join the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies and the UW–Madison Office of Sustainability for a day of art, action, and stories of resilience as we explore what it means to show up for the planet, each other, and ourselves.

The Earth Fest Forum is presented in partnership with the Center for Healthy Minds.

What to Expect

  • Inspiration: Explore live screen printing, dance performances, and art installations
  • Education: Hear from faculty experts, visionaries, and community leaders
  • Motivation: Meet fellow Badgers and community members who are making a difference

Interested in bringing a large group to the event? Contact Alessandra Rella at arella@wisc.edu.

Schedule

2 p.m.

Exhibit Hall and registration opens

Check in, meet student groups and community partners, and explore art exhibits

Bring your own T-shirt, tote bag, or hat for FREE live screen printing by Phantasy Prints!


3:15 p.m.

Performance by Kanopy Dance


3:45–5 p.m.

Psychology of Deep Resilience

Learn about resilience in today’s landscape, ecological emotions, and emotional well-being, plus participate in an awareness practice, led by Richard Davidson.

Panelists:

  • Richard Davidson: Founder, Center for Healthy Minds & Healthy Minds Innovations, William James & Vilas Professor of Psychology & Psychiatry
  • Dekila Chungyalpa: Director of the Loka Initiative, Center for Healthy Minds and Healthy Minds Innovations
  • Christy Wilson-Mendenhall: Research Assistant Professor, Center for Healthy Minds

5–5:10 p.m.

Break


5:10–6:25 p.m.

Stories of Climate Courage

How do we overcome challenges and build climate courage? Hear real-life examples from a panel of UW–Madison experts, alumni, and staff, moderated by Kira Adkins, Nelson Institute undergraduate.

Panelists:

  • Dekila Chungyalpa: Director of the Loka Initiative, Center for Healthy Minds and Healthy Minds Innovations
  • Jonathan Patz: Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor and John P. Holton Chair of Health and the Environment
  • John Francis: environmental activist and Nelson Institute alumnus
  • Gary Besaw: Director of the Menominee Tribal Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, Director of the Menominee Tribal Food Distribution Program, and UW–Madison alumnus
  • Christopher Kilgour: Nelson Institute community outreach manager and alumnus

6:25–6:30 p.m.

Closing and announcement of CHE Art and Environment Award winners


6:30–7 p.m.

Reception

Enjoy refreshments and appetizers.

Details

When

April 23, 2025    
2:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Where

Discovery Building
330 N. Orchard Street, Madison, WI

Event Type