we are a force for change

Clark’s new School of Climate, Environment, and Society is a bold and exciting response to the world’s most pressing call to action. The School builds on Clark’s long legacy of climate-related work in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities — accelerating the discovery of human‑focused, community‑centered solutions.

Achieving positive change

Study and work alongside others to untangle the interconnected climate, environmental, societal, and economic crises, and develop solutions.

A student monitors the circumference of a tree in Chicopee Massachusetts

Collaborating across borders

In engaging with communities and practitioners locally and globally, we advocate for collaboration and integration of ideas, practices, and systems.

Integrating scholarship

Our faculty come from across the university, contributing deep expertise in conservation, earth science, economics, geography and GIS, sustainability and social justice, and urban issues.

Lou Leonard

Meet the Dean

In May 2025, Lou Leonard, JD formally joined us as Clark’s D.J.A. Spencer Dean of the School of Climate, Environment, and Society.

“We recognize climate and global change as the most defining challenge of our time — a human problem requiring human solutions that are just, equitable, and sustainable.”

Featured News


Tree planting during kickoff of School of Climate, Environment, and Society

Climate, Environment, and Society Kickoff Day

Clark celebrated the launch of the School of Climate, Environment, and Society with a day full of activities on Sept. 15, 2025, including opportunities to learn about new academic offerings, explore local nature, and engage in fun activities and workshops.

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