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.
Open Door, Full Room!
We’re currently at capacity for our two panels — Psychology of Deep Resilience and Stories of Climate Courage — but don’t worry! There’s still a chance we’ll have seats or standing-room availability on the day of the event.
Sign up for our standby list and we’ll let you know when you arrive if we’re able to seat you.
Our Exhibit Hall is open to all — come explore local action, try hands-on art and games, and connect with others building climate courage.
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!
3–3:20 p.m.
Performance by Kanopy Dance
3:30–3:45 p.m.
Performance of “Homeland” by Allison Loggins-Hull for solo flute by Abhinay Srinivas Reddy ’27
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
- 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.