Friday, April 14, 2017

STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS TO ATTEND THE EARTH OPTIMISM SUMMIT

Please let me know if you're interested in applying for the Earth Optimism Summit scholarship ($575 plus meals) and I'll submit your names. Details about the summit are below. It sounds like an excellent opportunity!

-Shannon



 STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS TO ATTEND THE EARTH OPTIMISM SUMMIT

The Smithsonian Institution is hosting the inaugural Earth Optimism SummitApril 21-23, in Washington DC. The Summit will be a master class in saving the planet, in effect a 25-hour intensive course in conservation success. We will gather over 150 speakers and 1000 thought leaders, scientists, artists, environmentalists, and civic and business leaders from around the world, as well as students and young professionals, to share stories of what’s working in conservation. It is hard to imagine a better way for a young change maker to spend three days. 

Thanks to the recent generosity of donors, the Smithsonian Institution is now able to offer 200 awards for exceptional students to attend. From science and conservation to journalism, international relations, business and the arts we are looking for student leaders who are motivated to make positive change for the planet! 

The awards are on a first-come/first serve basis, so reply as soon as possible with names and email addresses of up to 10 students to earthoptimism@si.edu. Please note that because of the value and scarcity of awards relative to demand, the students chosen should commit to attending the summit in its entirety (that is, Friday morning through Sunday mid-day) to experience the breadth and depth of the content and networking opportunities being offered. 

·      We are initially offering up to ten awards per university or program
·      Students must be nominated by university or program faculty or leadership with student names and program affiliation sent to earthoptimism@si.edu
·      Please put student scholarship in the email heading or use the heading in this email so we can keep track easily
·      We will then reply promptly (within 24 hours) with information as to how to register the students for a complementary ticket

The summit will cover everything from protecting species and places to reducing pollution, increasing efficiency, and inspiring others to take action. The Summit is for anyone who wants to be immersed in conservation success - what is working, why, and how to scale it up. Breakfast, lunch, coffee and receptions are included.  For further program details consult earthoptimism.si.edu

Finally, faculty and university leadership are also encouraged to register for the Summit below and join your student delegation in celebrating Earth Optimism!

Conference Fees (3 Days): 
General Admission: $575
Program includes Species & Spaces, Landscapes & Seascapes, Communities Making a Difference, Science & Technology, Energy & Efficiency, Health, Cities, and Business Solutions
Speakers include celebrated national and international leaders from over 22 countries working from local to global scales
Note that the program continues to grow – check regularly for updates. 
SPECIAL FEATURES
Innovation Commons exhibits showcasing solutions
Video and Make for the Planet Competitions
Conservation Comics
Greetings from the International Space Station and Sister Events Around the World 
Leading Journalists as Moderators
Streaming FacebookLive
Musical Performances, Film Festival, Story Collider Show, Training Workshops, and Networking Events 
Public Events in Smithsonian Museums and the Zoo (most are free of charge)