Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
University of Hawaii Manoa: Disease and Trauma Found in Majority of Whale, Dolphin Strandings
MANOA, Hawaii, Dec. 23 -- The University of Hawaii Manoa campus issued the following news release:
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Disease and trauma found in majority of whale, dolphin strandings
From land-borne pathogens to high-speed vessel strikes, Pacific whales and dolphins are caught in a "perfect storm" where human-caused trauma and infectious diseases were found in more than 65% of investigated strandings. A study spanning nearly two decades by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers provides insights into the threats whales and dolphins face in the Pacific Islands.
Based on 272 stranding investigations
... Show Full Article
MANOA, Hawaii, Dec. 23 -- The University of Hawaii Manoa campus issued the following news release:
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Disease and trauma found in majority of whale, dolphin strandings
From land-borne pathogens to high-speed vessel strikes, Pacific whales and dolphins are caught in a "perfect storm" where human-caused trauma and infectious diseases were found in more than 65% of investigated strandings. A study spanning nearly two decades by University of Hawaii at Manoa researchers provides insights into the threats whales and dolphins face in the Pacific Islands.
Based on 272 stranding investigationsof 20 cetacean species between 2006 and 2024, the study provides foundational data to better manage and conserve Hawaii's whales and dolphins.
"Dolphins and whales are sentinels of ocean health - we need to understand why these animals die to help others live," said Kristi West, director of the UH Health and Stranding Lab at the College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience.
Disease is prevalent
Over 18 years, scientists examined more than three-quarters of the stranded whales and dolphins to understand why they died. Most cases (62%) were linked to diseases, and about half of those animals were in poor body condition due to long-term illness.
Infectious agents proved to be a significant threat, affecting 11 different species, including striped dolphins and Longman's beaked whales. Two of the most concerning pathogens were morbillivirus and brucella, which can cause serious brain and lung problems in marine mammals.
Toxoplasmosis - a parasite that infects warm-blooded animals and spreads through cat feces across the environment - was responsible for the deaths of two spinner dolphins and one bottlenose dolphin.
Trauma linked to humans
The study revealed that 29% of all strandings were linked to anthropogenic (human-caused) trauma. Vessel strikes were a significant risk, resulting in fatal vertebral and skull fractures for seven individuals, including two pygmy sperm whales, two humpback whale calves, a goose-beaked whale, a spinner dolphin and a striped dolphin.
Interactions with marine debris and fisheries were confirmed as fatal in multiple cases, including:
* A sperm whale died from plastic and fishery debris blocking its stomach.
* A bottlenose dolphin died after a fishhook tore into it.
Public reporting urged
In the Pacific Islands, most dolphins and whales die at sea, and recovery rates are very low. Each stranding examination provides stakeholders with valuable information about what is happening to these animals and their ecosystem. Public reporting is critical to understanding threats to marine mammal health.
Sightings of dead or distressed marine mammals can be reported to the statewide NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at (888) 256-9840, toll-free.
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Original text here: http://www.uhm.hawaii.edu/news/article.php?aId=14305
UConn Health Cancer Center Named State Partner in Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
STORRS, Connecticut, Dec. 23 -- The University of Connecticut issued the following news:
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UConn Health Cancer Center Named State Partner in Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
By Jennifer Walker
UConn Health's Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center has been named a partner with the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) in the state's statewide cancer coalition the Connecticut Cancer Partnership (CCP), recognizing UConn Health's leadership in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.
The partnership, supported by $525,000 in federal funding from the Centers for
... Show Full Article
STORRS, Connecticut, Dec. 23 -- The University of Connecticut issued the following news:
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UConn Health Cancer Center Named State Partner in Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
By Jennifer Walker
UConn Health's Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center has been named a partner with the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) in the state's statewide cancer coalition the Connecticut Cancer Partnership (CCP), recognizing UConn Health's leadership in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.
The partnership, supported by $525,000 in federal funding from the Centers forDisease Control and Prevention, will strengthen statewide efforts to reduce cancer incidence and mortality, address health disparities, and improve access to care for all Connecticut residents. DPH selected UConn Health based on its long-standing involvement in statewide cancer initiatives and its deep clinical, research, and academic expertise. UConn Health faculty and staff have played active roles on the CT Cancer Partnership's advisory committee and working groups that support cancer control efforts throughout the state.
As part of the partnership, UConn Health will provide administrative support for the coalition and serve on the program's advisory committee through the Connecticut Cancer Partnership, a coalition of more than 150 organizations working collaboratively to reduce the burden of cancer statewide.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Connecticut, affecting tens of thousands of residents each year and touching nearly every family in the state through prevention and screening, diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship. While advances in early detection and care have improved outcomes, significant challenges remain, including disparities in access to care, long-term survivorship needs, and the ongoing impact of cancer on patients, families, and communities.
Through this collaboration, UConn Health will help ensure that statewide cancer initiatives are informed by clinical expertise, public health data, and the lived experiences of people across Connecticut. Cancer control encompasses a wide range of efforts, from prevention and early detection to effective treatment and addressing the long-term physical, emotional, and social effects of cancer after treatment.
The current Connecticut Cancer Plan runs through 2026, and as the state begins planning for the next phase, UConn Health will play a key role in helping lead the development of the next statewide cancer plan, ensuring it reflects emerging issues, advances in cancer care, and the evolving needs of Connecticut's diverse communities.
"This partnership reflects the confidence the state has in UConn Health's cancer expertise," Dr. Alicia Dugan, associate professor, Department of Medicine at the UConn School of Medicine, principal investigator for the award. "As we look ahead to the next cancer plan, we have an opportunity to help shape a future-focused approach that strengthens prevention, improves survivorship, and advances equity in cancer care across the state."
The partnership also creates opportunities for medical and public health students across the state to participate in cancer control activities, including guideline development, planning initiatives, and collaborative working groups.
Engaging students in this work aligns with UConn Health's academic mission while expanding the reach of cancer control efforts across the state. It also helps ensure that the next generation of health professionals is prepared to address cancer as both a clinical and public health challenge.
Together, UConn Health, statewide health centers, and DPH aim to build a more coordinated, equitable, and forward-looking approach to cancer control in Connecticut. By aligning clinical expertise, public health strategy, and community partnerships, the collaboration is expected to strengthen prevention efforts, improve outcomes, and help ensure that people across the state have access to high-quality cancer care and support now and in the years to come.
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Original text here: https://today.uconn.edu/2025/12/uconn-health-cancer-center-named-state-partner-in-comprehensive-cancer-control-program/
NUHS' November/ December Campus Event Highlights
LOMBARD, Illinois, Dec. 23 -- National University of Health Sciences issued the following news:
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NUHS' November/ December Campus Event Highlights
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Throughout Nov. and Dec., National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) invited a lineup of guest speakers who shared insights on various health care topics.
* On Nov. 6, Naturopathic Professional Student Association (NPSA) invited Darin Ingles, ND, to present naturopathic approaches to managing Lyme disease. Dr. Ingles, a former Lyme patient and an expert on the condition, detailed how a proper diet, natural therapies and lifestyle modifications
... Show Full Article
LOMBARD, Illinois, Dec. 23 -- National University of Health Sciences issued the following news:
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NUHS' November/ December Campus Event Highlights
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Throughout Nov. and Dec., National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) invited a lineup of guest speakers who shared insights on various health care topics.
* On Nov. 6, Naturopathic Professional Student Association (NPSA) invited Darin Ingles, ND, to present naturopathic approaches to managing Lyme disease. Dr. Ingles, a former Lyme patient and an expert on the condition, detailed how a proper diet, natural therapies and lifestyle modificationscan support healing. With treating over 8,000 Lyme patients, Dr. Ingles shared dietary strategies and herbal remedies that he found worked best for himself and his patients.
* On Nov. 13, NPSA hosted Jenny McMullen, DC, from The Wellness Way to present a seminar on thyroid health. She emphasized the importance of comprehensive thyroid testing beyond thyroid stimulating hormone levels and addressed factors like stress, halogens, metals, viruses, adrenal function and food allergies that can impact thyroid health. Dr. McMullen shared strategies to improve patient outcomes by addressing these underlying issues.
* On Nov. 21, NPSA invited alumnus Michael Robinson, ND' 19 to present "Practicing in an Unlicensed State." He discussed the complexities of practicing in licensed and unlicensed states, emphasizing the importance of understanding state-specific laws and obtaining appropriate licenses. Dr. Robinson also shared insights on medical integration, nutrition therapy and the value of shadowing professionals to align career goals with real-world practice.
* On Dec. 4, NUHS hosted alumnus Gregory Roytman, DC' 19, MS, MPHIL, to present "Research Career Paths in Complementary Health Care" to a group of 40 students, faculty and staff. Dr. Roytman shared his journey as a chiropractic physician, researcher and as a PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at Yale. Throughout his presentation, Dr. Roytman emphasized the flexibility of post-graduation career paths and highlighted opportunities in clinical practice, research fellowships and supplemental degrees. Lastly, he encouraged students to network and explore diverse career options in complementary health care.
For more information on upcoming events, visit Events at NUHS.
About NUHS
National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) is a leader in the growing field of Integrative Medicine, and is respected worldwide for success in balancing healing arts and science and combining broad-scope integrative medicine with patient-centered care.
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Original text here: https://www.nuhs.edu/nuhs-guest-speaking-events/
Finals Traditions Highlight Temple's Commitment to Student Support
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Dec. 23 -- Temple University issued the following news:
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New finals traditions highlight Temple's commitment to student support
From high-fives to midnight pancakes, Temple University students felt the community's support as they prepared for final exams.
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As final exams approached, Temple students found encouragement not just in the classroom but with high-fives, notes of encouragement and pancakes with fellow Owls during two new campus traditions.
More than 2,000 students participated in the inaugural High-fives for Finals event hosted by New Student and
... Show Full Article
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Dec. 23 -- Temple University issued the following news:
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New finals traditions highlight Temple's commitment to student support
From high-fives to midnight pancakes, Temple University students felt the community's support as they prepared for final exams.
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As final exams approached, Temple students found encouragement not just in the classroom but with high-fives, notes of encouragement and pancakes with fellow Owls during two new campus traditions.
More than 2,000 students participated in the inaugural High-fives for Finals event hosted by New Student andFamily Programs, in partnership with the Temple Family Council, on Dec. 10 and 11 during finals week.
Members of the Temple Family Council, the Division of Student Affairs and more than 20 other Temple staff members distributed snacks and beverages, offered words of support, and shared high-fives with students.
Brandon C. Stagner, director, and Brandy M. Jericho-Beach, parent and family programs coordinator, both in New Student and Family Programs within the Division of Student Affairs, led the event.
"High-fives for Finals was an incredible reminder of how deeply supported our students are by the Temple community," said Jericho-Beach. "Everyone had a smile on their face after connecting with the event. A simple high-five, snack or a note of encouragement clearly made a difference for them. Seeing families, staff and volunteers come together to offer encouragement during what can be a high-stress time really reinforced that students are never navigating their journey here alone."
Families were invited to participate by donating snacks and drinks through an Amazon Wishlist, helping to keep students energized throughout finals week. Nearly 1,000 drinks, more than 2,000 snacks and 2,180 notes of encouragement were shared with students.
Jericho-Beach added that the enthusiasm around this inaugural event has excited the team to grow High-fives for Finals even more in the future.
"We are excited to continue High-fives for Finals in the spring and beyond as it grows into a meaningful Temple tradition," she said.
Before finals began, Owls fueled up during the Midnight Breakfast on Dec. 8 in J&H Dining Hall. Led by the Residence Hall Association in partnership with the Main Campus Programs Board, Student Leadership and Engagement, and Aramark, this semester's ski-themed event included breakfast, games, giveaways and more for students to enjoy ahead of finals.
"The goal of the program is to provide a space for students to come and enjoy free breakfast food and engage in crafting activities to allow them to relax before Study Day and finals," said Danielle Parker, assistant director of academic initiatives and student engagement.
The Midnight Breakfast launched in the fall of 2024 and has now been offered three times, taking place from 9 p.m. to midnight on the evening before Study Day each semester.
"The event has had a positive impact on more than 3,600 students," said Parker. "We are excited to provide a program that continues to create a strong sense of community and support for Temple students."
- Katie DuBoff
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Original text here: https://now.temple.edu/news/2025-12-22/new-finals-traditions-highlight-temples-commitment-student-support
Fairmont State Board of Governors Meeting Underscores the University's Role as an Affordable Regional Public Institution
FAIRMONT, West Virginia, Dec. 23 -- Fairmont State University issued the following news:
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Fairmont State Board of Governors Meeting Underscores the University's Role as an Affordable Regional Public Institution
The Fairmont State's Board of Governors met Thursday, December 18, in the Falcon Center Board Room to advance the University's status as an affordable, accessible, and innovative regional institution. The session highlighted strategic initiatives aimed at advancing academic excellence, supporting student success, and driving economic growth throughout West Virginia. From celebrating
... Show Full Article
FAIRMONT, West Virginia, Dec. 23 -- Fairmont State University issued the following news:
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Fairmont State Board of Governors Meeting Underscores the University's Role as an Affordable Regional Public Institution
The Fairmont State's Board of Governors met Thursday, December 18, in the Falcon Center Board Room to advance the University's status as an affordable, accessible, and innovative regional institution. The session highlighted strategic initiatives aimed at advancing academic excellence, supporting student success, and driving economic growth throughout West Virginia. From celebratingrecent achievements to approving measures that promote transparency and affordability, the Board reaffirmed Fairmont State's steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality education and serving as a trusted partner in shaping the state's future.
The Presidential Report highlighted numerous significant events that have occurred since October, including Fall Commencement, Governor Patrick Morrisey's on campus press conference, the Presidential Speaker Series featuring Hope Gas CEO Morgan O'Brien, the U.S. premiere of the A Day to Remember, a Brazilian documentary on the Farmington No. 9 disaster, and many more. The most recent of these includes the launch of Fairmont State's signature "Falcon Fest" beer in collaboration with Short Story Brewing on December 17.
Looking ahead, Fairmont State is preparing to make a powerful statement during Day at the Capitol on January 23, 2026. Visitors to the Capitol that day will see a large presence of maroon & white throughout the building. This event will showcase the University's significant economic impact on West Virginia and provide an opportunity for the campus community to engage with legislators and other elected officials.
"Fairmont State is not just building momentum--we are shaping the future of higher education in West Virginia," said President Mike Davis. "Through meaningful engagement, bold initiatives, and strategic partnerships, we are strengthening our position as a leader both academically and within the broader community. From celebrating the achievements of our graduates to forging collaborations that drive economic growth and innovation, every step we take reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence, progress, and the success of those we serve. Our brightest days are ahead of us."
In closing, President Davis provided an update on the Classification & Compensation study conducted by Evergreen Solutions. This initiative will guide salary adjustments to ensure Fairmont State employees are fairly and accurately compensated for their contributions. Employees identified for the first round of salary increases see those in their December 26 pay. All employees will receive notification letters explaining their status by the end of January 2026. Another round of adjustments will be proposed towards the end of the fiscal year and presented to the Board for approval. As important, updated salary schedules, recommended job descriptions, and standard titles are now available for all positions.
"The Board of Governors is proud to support initiatives that place student success and employee well-being at the forefront," said Board Chair Jason Pizatella. "These strategic efforts not only reinforce Fairmont State's foundation of excellence but also amplify our role as a driving force in West Virginia's economic growth and educational advancement. By investing in people and programs, we are ensuring that Fairmont State continues to lead, inspire, and deliver lasting impact for generations to come."
Dr. Anne Bolyard, President of the Fairmont State Foundation, shared details about the upcoming Day of Giving on February 26, 2026, with a fundraising goal of $800,000 and 89 participating areas. The event will once again feature a 24-hour livestream on Fairmont State's Facebook page and the Fairmont State Foundation website, www.fsufoundation.org.
During the Finance Report, Vice President of Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer John Nisbet introduced representatives from independent firm Suttle & Stalnaker to present audit findings and outlined a new tuition model for the upcoming academic year for the Board's approval.
Fairmont State University received an unmodified opinion on its fiscal year 2025 audit, marking the eighth consecutive year the institution closed the books in a high level and positive financial standing. The audit confirmed that the University's financial statements were accurate and free of material misstatements, continuing its record of excellence in financial reporting.
The Board voted to approve the tuition and fees proposal for fiscal year 2026-2027. The plan includes an $87 per semester tuition increase for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students and a $120 per semester increase for graduate students. This marks the first tuition increase in more than a year.
Last year, tuition was frozen and the metro rate was eliminated, creating a uniform structure for all out-of-state students and reducing or freezing costs. To help offset the impact of the upcoming tuition increase, course fees will not rise for the upcoming academic year, several auxiliary fees have been eliminated.
George Wolf, Vice President of Enrollment Management, reported that Fairmont State's cost compared to peer universities will remain unchanged, underscoring their commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable education. He also emphasized that Enrollment Management's deepened focus on helping students overcome financial hurdles is a factor in increased student retention, with 84% of first-time freshmen enrolled for the Spring 2026 semester. Enrollment Management has also diligently worked to ease students' financial concerns through initiatives such as flexible payment plans and enhanced financial aid counseling.
Wolf emphasized the University's commitment to transparency. "It's important that we're transparent so that we can uphold our promise to our students and their families and keep their trust," Wolf said. "It's also vital that we demonstrate that fees are applied in a way that improves academic programs, enhances student life, and bolsters overall student services."
Wolf explained that one of the most significant changes is the consolidation of student fees, replacing smaller and less defined charges. The consolidated fees will fund things that directly benefit students, such as core academic operations and student resources, student wellness initiatives, engagement activities, and other experiences meant to enhance the student experience, and technology services for students to utilize.
Student Affairs reported they have been actively implementing new initiatives to strengthen student engagement and expand support for basic needs. These efforts include overhauls to resources like The Nest, the on-campus food bank, mental health services, and primary care health services.
One of the most significant projects focuses on increasing student involvement through a platform called Engage, which records attendance at campus events. According to Dr. Janna Bredeson, Vice President of Student Affairs, early data suggests a positive correlation: students who participate more in campus activities tend to achieve higher academic outcomes.
Dr. Lindsey Graham Guinn, Executive Director of Institutional Research, presented the Institutional Research and Effectiveness Implementation Plan, which received Board approval. This is one of 11 implementation plans aligned with Fairmont State University's 2025-2035 Strategic Vision. Collectively, these advance Fairmont State's vision: to be A Great Place to Work, to Learn, and to Call Home.
This implementation plan aligns directly with the institution's mission by fostering opportunity, growth, and achievement are data informed. It ensures that decisions regarding academic programs, student success initiatives, resource allocation, and other critical priorities are based on accurate, reliable, and timely data.
Provost Dr. Allen Bedford then provided an update on Academic implementation planning. The first full-day planning session with Academic Affairs constituents and consulting firm EAB took place in December, and a second session is scheduled for January. These sessions, along with biweekly meetings of a working group throughout spring, will identify the strategic objectives of the Academic Implementation Plan. This will be vetted through campus groups before being presented to the Board of Governors in June.
Bedford also reported progress on program reviews for Exercise Science, Communication Arts, Psychology, Spanish, National Security and Intelligence, Engineering Management, Education, and Healthcare Administration. The Engineering Management program, previously on hold, will be relaunched after a review of external indicators confirmed substantial market demand.
With no other business brought forward, the Board entered executive session. No decisions were voted on. Afterwards, the Board voted to adjourn the meeting. The next full Board of Governors meeting will be held on February 25, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the Falcon Center Board Room.
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Original text here: https://www.fairmontstate.edu/news/2025/12/fairmont-state-board-governors-meeting-underscores-universitys-role-affordable-regional-public-institution.aspx
Duke University Pratt School of Engineering: Leaves' Pores Explain Longstanding Mystery of Uneven Tree Growth in a Carbon-Enriched World
DURHAM, North Carolina, Dec. 23 (TNSjou) -- Duke University Pratt School of Engineering issued the following news:
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Leaves' Pores Explain Longstanding Mystery of Uneven Tree Growth in a Carbon-Enriched World
The mechanics of how water and carbon dioxide move in and out of plants greatly affects how trees grow in a carbon-dioxide-enriched environments.
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The basics of photosynthesis are something that every student learns in school: carbon dioxide, water and light in; oxygen and sugar for growth out. In a world where atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are rising, it is plausible to think
... Show Full Article
DURHAM, North Carolina, Dec. 23 (TNSjou) -- Duke University Pratt School of Engineering issued the following news:
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Leaves' Pores Explain Longstanding Mystery of Uneven Tree Growth in a Carbon-Enriched World
The mechanics of how water and carbon dioxide move in and out of plants greatly affects how trees grow in a carbon-dioxide-enriched environments.
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The basics of photosynthesis are something that every student learns in school: carbon dioxide, water and light in; oxygen and sugar for growth out. In a world where atmospheric carbon dioxide levels are rising, it is plausible to thinkthat trees and other plant life growth will rise in lockstep.
But that is not what observations have borne out. As global levels of carbon dioxide have risen, measurements of tree growth--and how much carbon they are storing for the long-term--have varied greatly. How much of that variance can be attributed to carbon dioxide levels has long been unknown.
In a paper published online on November 24 in the journal Nature Climate Change (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-025-02504-w), researchers led by Duke University and Wuhan University describe a model that answers many of these questions. By looking at the tradeoffs between taking in more carbon dioxide to grow and losing water to evaporation, they show how an engineer's view of this delicate balance in the pores of a tree's leaves can explain and predict its growth over decades and centuries.
"There used to be a common assumption that higher levels of carbon dioxide will cause trees to grow more and store more carbon," said Gaby Katul, the George Pearsall Distinguished Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Duke. "But benchmark experiments showed that while this may be true in isolation, other environmental factors also play a large role. We have now uncovered some of the underlying mechanisms at work."
The benchmark experiments Katul is referring to took place at Duke University and ETH Zurich to investigate how much carbon the world's forests might capture in a future carbon-rich atmosphere. Over the course of 16 years, the Duke site fed groups of trees excess carbon dioxide while the ETH Zurich site increased their local humidity levels. By closely measuring tree growth and carbon sequestration, and monitoring many other variables, researchers showed that trees in general would not take in nearly as much carbon as previously conjectured.
But the reasons why were still not fully understood. To help explain these results, and dozens of others from around the world, Katul and his collaborators turned to an engineer's view of water movement in a tree.
For a tree to take in carbon dioxide, it must open pores on its leaves called stomata. With more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, the working assumption has been that proportionally more carbon dioxide would enter these pores.
However, in warmer and drier environments, water evaporates from these pores into the atmosphere more quickly. To keep their internal water systems balanced, trees compensate by making their stomatal pores smaller, which in turn leads to them absorbing less carbon dioxide.
This dynamic causes a direct tradeoff between gathering more carbon dioxide to grow and losing water needed to survive. And to complicate matters further, there is a delicate balance of water tension held throughout a tree's roots, trunk and limbs that risks disruption if too much water is lost too quickly, especially as trees reach their mature heights.
"Stomata are like valves that control how much water is drawn up into the leaves and released into the air," said Katul.
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Original text here: https://pratt.duke.edu/news/tree-pores-carbon-dioxide/
Columbia University Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory: Year in Review - Our Top Stories of 2025
NEW YORK, Dec. 23 -- Columbia University Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory issued the following statement on Dec. 22, 2025:
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Year in Review: Our Top Stories of 2025
A look back at the stories and videos that shaped our year at State of the Planet.
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address the effects of climate change, during Climate Week NYC and COP30, among other initiatives.
Here at the Climate School, we celebrated another graduating class of students, who will now use their education and experiences to help build a better world. We also launched the first M.S. in Climate Finance Program in the United States,
... Show Full Article
NEW YORK, Dec. 23 -- Columbia University Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory issued the following statement on Dec. 22, 2025:
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Year in Review: Our Top Stories of 2025
A look back at the stories and videos that shaped our year at State of the Planet.
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address the effects of climate change, during Climate Week NYC and COP30, among other initiatives.
Here at the Climate School, we celebrated another graduating class of students, who will now use their education and experiences to help build a better world. We also launched the first M.S. in Climate Finance Program in the United States,as well as a new dual degree with Columbia Engineering, to broaden the opportunities for students, professionals and future academics interested in the climate field.
At State of the Planet, we published hundreds of stories highlighting current, past and future climate news, as well as the people working to understand and build a more sustainable and just future for our planet. You can read a short roundup of our most viewed articles below.
Some of our most popular posts from 2025
A Disaster Expert Explains Why the LA Fires Have Been So Catastrophic: Jeffrey Schlegelmilch, director of the Columbia Climate School's National Center for Disaster Preparedness, discussed why this year's fires have been so devastating and what can be done about wildfires going forward.
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Columbia Climate School Launches First M.S. in Climate Finance Program in the United States: The Climate School launched a new interdisciplinary degree that will drive impactful solutions to the climate crisis through advanced financial tools and scientific knowledge.
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All of the Biggest U.S. Cities Are Sinking: A study of the 28 most populous U.S. cities found that, from the coasts to the interior, urban areas are sinking. The main culprit was the pumping ofgroundwater.
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How Congestion Pricing Will Benefit New York City: In January, New York City became the first municipality in the U.S. to implement congestion pricing. While some of the results are already apparent, this Viewpoint explores the benefits New Yorkers can expect to see in the future.
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A Disaster Expert Explains Why the Texas Floods Were So Devastating: A warning system, which might involve integrating older technology like weather radios with new AI products and local knowledge, is key to preventing future loss of life, according to Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a meteorologist and senior staff researcher at the Columbia Climate School's National Center for Disaster Preparedness.
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7 Climate Experts on What We Can Still Do to Fight Climate Change: Network, think and speak your mind. These are the ways to engage with the climate crisis, according to experts.
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Five Ways To Make Your Life More Sustainable: Simple steps to go green(er) this Earth Day, and all the days that follow.
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Archaeologist Kristina Douglass Named 2025 MacArthur Fellow: In her research, Douglass, an associate professor of climate at the Columbia Climate School, uses lessons from the past to help communities understand how to adapt to climate change.
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Columbia Beautiful Planet 2025: Each year, we honor Earth Day by sharing some amazing photos celebrating the beauty and magic of our planet, as captured by the Columbia community.
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Nanoplastics Are All Around (and Inside) Us: How are humans exposed to these tiny and ubiquitous plastics? And is there anything we can do about it?
Video Highlights
This year, we added exciting new content to our Science for the Planet video series, which features short explainers from Climate School researchers who are learning about the impacts of climate change.
* Financing Sustainable Development: Meet Lisa Sachs--a lawyer who specializes in how public and private investment can help achieve environmental, social and economic goals.
* Tackling the Invisible Threat of Nanoplastics: Beizhan Yan, an environmental geochemist at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, has come up with new methods to detect and analyze tiny plastic particles to better understand their impact on human and environmental health.
* Creating Climate Solutions with Urban Communities: Climate School professor Sheila Foster works with frontline communities on climate adaptation strategies.
* In Madagascar, Learning From a Library of Human Experience: Archaeologist Kristina Douglass explains how past human adaptation can inform solutions to modern climate challenges.
That's all for now. See you in 2026!
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Original text here: https://lamont.columbia.edu/news/year-review-our-top-stories-2025
