Midd students in DC
(Credit: Emily May )

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.

To stay in the loop on alumni networking opportunities, make sure to join our LinkedIn and Midd2Midd groups.

And, you can always keep an eye on what’s happening at Midd by signing up for our newsletter, and following us on Instagram

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

Closing Lunch