What Works Now?
Climate Action at Middlebury and Beyond
Nov 13-15, 2025 Middlebury College
As we all make sense of the roles of higher education, activism, and the public and private sectors in taking on the climate crisis at this crucial moment, we know that convening at Middlebury to honor the work of our alumni and communities and chart new paths forward will be a breath of fresh air.
Why now? 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of SNG/SNEG and the origins of 350.org from the original 2005 What Works conference. We have also been educating students in Environmental Studies for 60 years and have been supporting students through the Climate Action Program since 2020.
With a new Middlebury President committed to climate action and the broader landscape of climate movement pushback, it’s time for us to gather together. Let’s learn from our successes, challenges, strategies, and opportunities all while strengthening our approaches in community.
Events include:
- Environmental Studies Colloquium
- SNEG Welcome Meeting in the Chateau (albeit on a Thursday…)
- Themed breakout sessions including a zoom in from COP
- Panels and keynotes
- Hikes and campus tours
- Meals and entertainment
View a detailed event schedule below.
RSVP today! Let us know if you’re interested in attending, and share your memories today.
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What Works Now Conference Schedule
Thursday 11/13
The Orchard at Franklin Environmental Center
Woodin Environmental Studies Colloquium: Educating for Change
Chateau 108
SNEG Welcome Meeting
Friday 11/14
McCardell Bicentennial Hall
Student Action at Middlebury and Beyond: Lunch Panel
Featuring current students and alums who will share their experiences of making change at Middlebury
McCardell Bicentennial Hall
Breakouts: Leadership past, present and future
Session 1a: 1-2:15pm
Room 216: International Agreements and Policy
Room 219: Science
Session 1b 2:30-3:45pm
Room 216: Community and grassroots
Room 219: Finance
Wilson Hall
Keynote: Jamie Henn in conversation with President Ian Baucom
Saturday 11/15
McCardell Bicentennial Hall
Breakouts: Leadership past, present and future
Session 2a: 9-10:15am
Room 219: Culture, arts, and communication
Room 216: Local and Federal Policy
Session 2b: 10:15-11:30am
Room 219: Higher Education
Room 216: Private sector
Room 305: Philanthropy and NGO
Atwater Dining Hall