Category: Chicago

Apply for RU’s Community-based Research & Environmental Justice Course this Summer

This summer of 2025, Roosevelt’s Office of Student Research and Department of Law, Society, & Sustainability will support 8-10 undergraduate students in a Community-based Research and Environmental Justice experience (CREJ). A cohort-based summer research course based here in Chicago, this competitive fellowship includes tuition funding for a 3-credit EXL/research-focused urban sustainability and environmental justice course on selected Fridays (9:30am-1pm) from June 6 through August 1 during RU’s 8-week summer session. In addition to a tuition waiver for the course, students will receive a small stipend to help defray travel costs from RU’s Chicago Campus to our community organization partner. You can . . .

During this summer’s Community-based Research and Environmental Justice course, undergraduate students will participate in a hands-on and field-based introduction to urban sustainability and selected research and analytic methods in the humanities and social sciences. Students will gain experience doing community-based research (CBR) in collaboration with the Southeast Environmental Task Force (SETF), one of Chicago’s oldest grassroots conservation and environmental justice organizations. In addition, they will synthesize their findings and have opportunities to present their work at events such as Roosevelt’s annual Student Research and Inquiry Symposium (RSRIS).

Based in the Hegewisch neighborhood on Chicago’s Southeast Side, the Southeast Environmental Task Force has advocated since the 1980s for the people and ecosystems of the culturally and biologically diverse Calumet industrial region that spans Chicago’s far South Side, near south suburbs, and communities of northwest Indiana. SETF’s current initiatives and activism include several key issues within urban sustainability: climate and environmental justice advocacy; pollution reduction; clean energy policy; land use and sustainable development; green space conservation; and public health.

Industry on the Calumet River, Chicago IL (photo: M. Bryson)

Student applicants may be from any major and should have completed at least 15 hours of college credit; have earned a C or better in ENG 102; and have an interest in learning about community-based research, urban sustainability, and/or environmental justice.

Eligibility

  • Current Roosevelt University undergraduate student in any college or major (except those graduating in May 2025)
  • At least 15 credit hours completed at the time of application, including earning a C or better in ENG 102 (or, if currently taking ENG 102 this spring, a recommendation from the instructor is required)
  • GPA of at least 2.0 overall (2.5 minimum preferred)
  • Interest in learning about urban sustainability, doing applied research in the humanities and/or social sciences, working collaboratively with a local environmental organization, and exploring the neighborhoods, natural areas, and industrial landscape of Chicago’s historic Southeast Side

Fellowship Requirements and Benefits

  • Participate in an 8-week interdisciplinary hybrid seminar on selected Fridays 9:30am-1pm and online on Blackboard from June 6 through Aug 1. Class meetings will be at RU’s Chicago Campus and at selected field locations on Chicago’s Southeast Side. Online work is required in addition to the scheduled class and field trip sessions.
  • Work effectively as individuals, in small teams, and in collaboration with our community-based organization partner (the Southeast Environmental Task Force).
  • Earn 3 EXL course credits toward graduation (SUST / SOC / POS 262 Environmental Justice).
  • Gain first-hand knowledge of the remarkable people, industrial sites, and natural areas of a truly unique area of Chicago.

Application Info

Apply here for the Community-based Research and Environmental Justice Course Fellowship (application review begins April 11th, final deadline to submit April 18th, 2025). Or, go directly to the link below or use the QR code:

https://tinyurl.com/76ncv6ub

Students do not need to register for the course. All students will be notified about their application status once applications are reviewed. Students accepted to the CREJ program will be registered for the course by the Office of Student Research and at that time, tuition will be paid by the OSR. 

For questions or more information, please contact:

  • Mike Bryson (mbryson@roosevelt.edu), SUST Professor and Chair of the Department of Law, Society, & Sustainability
  • Laura Nussbaum-Barberena (lnussbaumbarberena@roosevelt.edu), Director of the Office of Student Research and the Policy Research Collaborative

For an informational flier, click here (pdf)

Attend Social Justice Day @RooseveltU this Th 3/13

 

Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Roosevelt University
10 a.m. – 1:20 p.m.

430 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60605
Ganz Hall, 7th Floor

Social Justice Day Moderator:
Natasha L. Robinson, JD, Deputy Chief Diversity Officer and Title IX Coordinator

Social Justice Day 2025 features a panel discussion of the Chicago Future Fund and the annual Matthew Freeman Lecture. The Chicago Future Fund panel features the work of two distinguished RU Sociology alumni: Richard Wallace, founder of the Equity and Transformation (EAT) community organization; and Dr. Ashley Baber, professor of Sociology at Augsburg University. Rounding out the panel are Rachel Pyon, research director of Equity and Transformation (EAT), and Deon Hodrick, a participant in the Chicago Future Fund.

Mr. Wallace’s EAT organization launched a Universal Basic Income program, providing formerly incarcerated people $500 each month to help them transition back home. Dr. Baber conducted a one-year study of the program to assess the impact of the money on reducing recidivism rates (likelihood they commit a crime) and reducing homelessness among formerly incarcerated people. Both Richard and Ashley are great examples of what students can do with their sociology degree from Roosevelt University.

This year’s Matthew Freeman Lecture by RU alum Melanie K Hall will address the importance of centering social justice in our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) work toward building communities that share power. Throughout the day, attendees will participate in a series of community building activities; a Q&A session; book signing for 2025 lecturer Melanie K. Hall’s new book Change Your Words to Change Your World: A Guide to Breaking Dysfunctional Patterns of Communication in Marriage, Relationships and the Workplace; and the “Pizza with a Purpose” reception.

This Social Justice Day celebrates our 80th Anniversary. Roosevelt University was born in 1945 when a visionary leader and 62 faculty members had the guts to go against the norms of exclusion in favor of inclusion. They went against the discriminatory practices of higher education in 1945. When asked to limit access because of race, religion and gender, they simply said, “We don’t count that way.” Our history is grounded in courage, acceptance, and a commitment to social justice.

Event Hosts: College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences; Mansfield Institute of Social Justice; and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Co-sponsor: The DEI Advisory Council Leadership Team

For more information, contact Natasha Robinson.

Light refreshments will be served.

 

Public Input Requested by 2/7 on Cook County’s Environmental Justice Policy

Cook County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES) is seeking input from the public on the County’s draft environmental justice (EJ) policy. This draft has been co-developed by an EJ internal working group, made up of County employees, and the EJ Community Advisory Committee. Once adopted by the County, the environmental justice policy will help inform and guide programming and policy decision-making across County bureaus and departments.

The deadline for commenting online is 11:59pm on Friday 2/7/25.

“Residents in low to middle income communities across Cook County, particularly communities of color, have been disproportionately impacted by pollution and lack of investment in green infrastructure. This has impacted their quality of life, their health and even life expectancy,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Creating an environmental justice policy with critical feedback from our residents will allow us to integrate this policy into programs and initiatives ensuring that we are effectively addressing past environmental injustices and working to prevent further injustices.”

Those who live or work in Cook County are encouraged to review the draft EJ policy and share their thoughts. A public input form is available on the DES website until midnight, February 7, 2025.

The County is hosting a series of in-person and virtual town hall events this month. The following town halls have been scheduled:

Tuesday, January 21 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Niles North High School
9800 North Lawler Ave
Skokie, IL 60077

Wednesday, January 22 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Cicero Public Library
5225 W Cermak Rd.
Cicero, IL 60804

Monday, January 27 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
South Suburban College
15800 State St.
South Holland, IL 60473

Wednesday, January 29 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual – Via Zoom
Click here to register for the Zoom Session

Monday, February 3 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Malcolm X College
1900 W. Jackson Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60612

Cook County Environmental Justice Survey Report 2024 reducedDownload
Cook County Environmental Justice Policy Draft 2025Download

 

Historically, communities of color and low-income communities have experienced disproportionate environmental burdens. Responding to the compounding effects of environmental inequities and preparing for additional challenges resulting from climate change are crucial aspects of the County’s strategic plan.

The creation of an environmental justice policy was requested in the Cook County COVID-19 Response Plan, the Cook County Equity Fund Taskforce recommendations and in Cook County Board Resolution 23-1092.

Like to Work Outside? The Chgo Park District’s Hiring Natural Areas Crew Positions for 2025

The Chicago Park District is now hiring seasonal positions with the Natural Areas Crew for 2025! The Natural Areas Crew is responsible for ecological restoration and management of the Chicago Park Districts prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Applications are due by Th 1/23/25.

Duties include:

  • Using conservation and restoration methods to improve the overall quality of natural areas, including mowing, herbicide application, hand pulling, and planting.
  • Identifying and learning both native and non-native flora relevant to the region.
  • Trail maintenance, fence repairs, garbage removal, and general park upkeep.
  • Engaging communities and working with volunteer groups to connect people to nature and promote environmental education.

Pay for the 2025 season is $23.41/hr. Applications are due by January 23rd, 2025.

Applications and more detailed info are at Natural Areas Seasonal Positions.

Questions? Contact Blake Struve (he/him)
Natural Areas Project Coordinator | Chicago Park District
Department of Cultural and Natural Resources
1000 E. Oakwood Blvd | Chicago, IL 60653
Phone: (312) 636-2166 Email: blake.struve@chicagoparkdistrict.com

Want to receive updates on employment opportunities and nature events in Chicago?Subscibe to the Chicago Park District newsletter!

RU Dining Center Student Job Opening

The Roosevelt University Chicago Campus Dining Center — known on campus as “The Caf” — is looking for a part-time student worker this Fall 2023 semester to fill a dual purpose:
  • Sustainability Initiatives: student engagement, tabling, signage, etc.
  • Social Media: posting to our Instagram account with sustainability news and other general information regarding specials and fun goings-on
RU Dining Center
The student, ideally, would be able to come up with independent novel ideas to help spread the word on what the Dining Center is doing and help come up with new ideas.
Hours/wage: 10 hours per week at $16 per hour

For more information or to submit an application, please contact Mr. Bill Reich at the email address below:

Bill Reich | Aladdin at Roosevelt University

Food Service Director
Bill.Reich@aladdinfood.com

Learn about Sustainability Careers with the Chicago Wilderness Alliance (Fri 6/16)

Emerging and Intergenerational Thought Leaders: Introducing Professional Opportunities and Uplifting Your Voices on Topics Around Sustainability

Friday, June 16, 2023
2:00 PM CST Register for Zoom link
At this Chicago Wilderness online café we will introduce professionals and their pathways, opportunities in the industry, and talk about the current understanding of climate protection, sustainability, and equity. We will be challenging societal norms an aiming to redefine how we engage with society through this new narrative of sustainability solidarity.

This café session will introduce the concepts of our systematic approach to sustainability and then engage participants in a polling activity to identify regional key focus areas for an intergenerational sustainability action plan.We encourage registrants to complete a survey about your priorities as an emerging conservation professional.

For additional info, contact Laura Reilly (laura.reillycw@gmail.com)

Don’t Go Without Water this Week: See “Without Water . . .” on Tue 4/11 @RooseveltU

Next Tuesday 4/11 as part of the 2023 Roosevelt Student Research and Inquiry Symposium as well as the WorldWide Teach-In for Climate and Justice, CCPA Acting and SUST 360 Honors students will collaborate on an interdisciplinary arts + humanities event combining performance and critical discussion.

Please join us at 2pm CST in the Fainman Lounge in RU’s historic Auditorium Building for an encore performance of the original devised play, “Without Water,” conceived and written by the first-year BFA Acting Class of 2026 and directed by Prof. Elise Kauzlaric in the CCPA’s Theatre Conservatory. The performance will be bracketed by commentary on the role of water in the urban environment by students in Prof. Mike Bryson’s SUST 360 Writing Urban Nature honors seminar, followed by an interactive discussion among the two groups of students and the audience.

This is the first-ever creative collaboration between the CCPA Theatre Conservatory and the Sustainability Studies Program of the College of Arts & Sciences at Roosevelt University in Chicago. The event also is part of the annual week-long scholarly and creative extravaganza known as the Roosevelt Student Research and Inquiry Symposium as well as the WorldWide Teach-In for Climate and Justice and RU’s Earth Month 2023 programming. Hope to see you there!

The cast of “Without Water” (BFA Acting Class of 2025, CCPA)

SUST 360 Honors students hiking at Northerly Island, March 2023

Questions or to RSVP:
Contact Prof. Mike Bryson (mbryson@roosevelt.edu)
Dept. of Sociology & Sustainability / College of Arts & Sciences

Application Deadline Extended to 3/27 for the 2023 FACE Program Summer Fellowship @RU

The Mansfield Institute’s Fellowship for Activism and Community Engagement (FACE) program will support 15 undergraduate Fellows over Summer 2023. This cohort-based summer fellowship includes funding for a 3-credit Social Justice in Action internship-based course in May 2022. In addition to tuition for this course, Fellows will receive a stipend of $2,500.

Following their course work in late May, Fellows will work in a social justice–focused community-based organization in or around Chicago for 9 weeks (11 hours/week) over the summer starting in early June. Fellows will have an opportunity to meet and work with past Fellows, attend University events together, and potentially present work at conferences. Applicants should have sophomore or junior standing with an interest in social justice and at least a 2.0 GPA (see below). Students receive a $2,500 stipend and 3 credits tuition-free for this experiential social justice-focused, cohort-based Fellowship.

New Deadline: Apply for the Fellowship by March 27, 2023

Eligibility

  • Open to all Roosevelt University students in any college or major
  • Students must have between 45 and 72 credit hours completed on March 13, 2023 (sophomore or junior standing)
  • GPA of at least a 2.0
  • Have an interest in Social Justice

What Fellows Can Expect To Do

  • Work with program faculty to select and secure a paid summer internship
  • Participate in a 3-full day seminar at the end of May 2023
  • Work in a community-based organization (100 hours over the summer)
  • Develop networks and build friendships
  • Earn $2500 and 3 credits toward graduation

Application Info

Apply here for the Mansfield Fellowship for Activism and Community Engagement (new deadline is March 27th, 2023)

SUST Alumni & Student Panel Next Tues 10/18 @RooseveltU

Next week Roosevelt University kicks off its 2022 American Dream Reconsidered Conference at its Chicago Campus as well as online. The theme of this year’s conference is “The City and the American Dream,” and many exciting and thought-provoking talks, panel discussions, and events are planned throughout the week.

Alumni, students, and faculty of the Sustainability Studies Program @RooseveltU are featured in the Oct. 18 Tuesday online panel discussion at 7pm CST on the topic, “Is the American Dream Sustainable?” with a special focus on Chicago as a city. The panel will be broadcast live on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube — links to those social media sites are below.

Is the American Dream Sustainable?

The science of urban ecology demonstrates that cities are not mere technological constructions, distinct from and diametrically opposed to nature, but complex ecosystems. As laboratories for sustainable innovation, such as green rooftops, cities offer a unique vantage point for re-imagining the sustainability of the American Dream. Using Chicago as a prime exemplar, our panel consisting of students and alumni will explore how urban sustainability advancements and environmental justice activism are redefining how we think about and work toward the American Dream.

Featured Panelists

Yesenia Balcazar (BA ’18) — Senior Resilient Community Planning Manager at the Southeast Environmental Task Force; MA in urban planning and policy (UIC ’21)

Kiera Carpenter (BA ’24) — SUST Student Associate, College of Arts & Sciences; RU Student Steward for 2022-23 in the Resilience Studies Consortium

Dan Lyvers (BA ’21) — Chief Operating Engineer at the Stickney wastewater treatment plant (the world’s largest such facility), Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicagoland

Moderator

Mike Bryson, Professor of Sustainability Studies, College of Arts & Sciences; RU Faculty Steward, Resilience Studies Consortium; Scientific Affiliate, Field Museum of Natural History

Viewing Information (So Many Options!)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/678320980097230

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/video/event

/urn:li:ugcPost:6985981931213504512/

YouTube: 

Elevate Your Education this 2022 Summer in SUST 390 Rooftop Garden @RooseveltU

This coming summer semester (2022) the Sustainability Studies program will reprise our popular and innovative special topics course, SUST 390 Rooftop Garden, at the Chicago Campus. The class will utilize RU’s unique 5th-story rooftop garden on its LEED Gold-certified Wabash Building as a living classroom for a hands-on, place-based, get-your-hands-dirty learning experience.

  • Title/number: SUST 390 Rooftop Garden (section 10)
  • Semester offered: Summer 2022 (10 weeks from May 31 thru Aug 8)
  • Location: Chicago Campus
  • Day/time: Online learning commences 5/31, with garden workdays and field trips to selected urban farms/green rooftops in the Chicago region scheduled by the instructor according to students’ availability.
  • Pre-req: ENG 102

SUST majors and minors may take this class to fulfill an upper-level SUST 3xx requirement, but 390 also is open to students at large seeking an experiential learning course, needing a general education course, or desiring elective credit.

RU President Ali, staff, and students harvest greens from the WB Rooftop Garden during the #AmDreamConf service day, 15 Sept 2016 (photo: RU Media)

Course Theme: Rooftop Gardens, Campus Sustainability, and Urban Agriculture

Diana Ramirez (BA ’17) works the garden plots on the WB Rooftop Garden, July 2017 (photo: M. Viveros)

Gets your hands dirty in this ten-week hybrid course which focuses on the unique urban ecosystem, the green rooftop, and features work in and stewardship of the fifth-story Roosevelt University WB Rooftop Garden in downtown Chicago. Students will learn about the relationships among food, biodiversity, waste, urban agriculture, green space design, and campus sustainability leadership through multiple modes: reading, participating in online discussions, taking field trips, and working in the RU garden during the summer late spring / early summer planting and growing season.

Course requirements and activities include online interaction through Blackboard; participation in garden workdays as scheduled by the student and instructor; and field trips to other urban community gardens and farms, whether rooftop or street-level. Participation in this course constitutes a significant contribution to the sustainability of RU’s Chicago Campus, and helps our community make progress on our 2015-2020 Strategic Sustainability Plan.

Moses Viveros sowing seeds in the rooftop garden, August 2017 (photo: D. Ramirez)

The RU Rooftop Garden in Chicago was started in the spring/summer of 2013, the first growing season after the opening on the Wabash Building in fall 2012. Since then, it has been funded and managed by the Department of Physical Resources, with work being done primarily by student interns and volunteers from the Sustainability Studies Program in the College of Arts & Sciences.

For questions and more details about this course, please contact Vicki Gerberich (vgerberich@roosevelt.edu), adjunct professor of Sustainability Studies; or Mike Bryson (mbryson@roosevelt.edu), professor & director of Sustainability Studies.

Maria Cancilla (BPS ’18), Prof. Vicki Gerberich, and Michelle Giles (SUST senior) during #AmDreamServiceDay 2018 (photo: M. Bryson)