Benefits of Participation

Individualized Approach

LEAF Fellows will chart and iterate their own environmental leadership path through creation of an Individualized Environmental Leadership Plan (IELP). 

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Environmental Leadership Certificate from WPI's Sustainability Office

LEAF Fellows who complete the three-term program will earn a certificate in Environmental Leadership from WPI's Office of Sustainability. 

Professional Mentorship 

​Fellows will be connected with mentors working in a variety of fields, from STEM research and policy to community action and sustainability. These experts will mentor Fellows as they explore and cultivate their professional path.

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Additional Credentials

With support from LEAF Program Co-directors, Fellows can seek additional credentials through their IELP. 

Examples include: 

• National Wildlife Federation's (NWF) Eco Leader Certification.

• NWF virtual campaign badges in Environmental Justice, Pollinators, and Plastics Reduction.

• National Registry of Environmental Professionals Associate Environmental Professional Certification.

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Share Your Work

Fellows may share their work and accomplishments through publications and conference presentations.

Networking

Fellows will have the opportunity to work with local STEM businesses, organizations, government agencies, community leaders, and sustainability advocates. Fellows will gain access to a vast network of employers via the Environmental Sustainability Studies Career Hub, the National Wildlife Federation Eco Careers Network, and participation in an Eco Careers Summit tailored specifically to LEAF Fellows. 

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Enhanced Connection to Nature

Throughout the three-terms, Fellows will have the opportunity to participate in immersive experiences. These experiences may include: 

• Toxic Tour of the Roxbury area of Boston

• Medicinal and food identification and foraging with Turn Back Time Farm 

• Mindful hiking: Mt Watatic, Mt. Wachusett

• Great Backyard Bird Count (and other community/civic science opportunities)

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Course Credit toward
Minor in Sustainability Engineering

Participation in the Environmental Leadership Course counts as 'planning and policy' course credit toward the minor in Sustainability Engineering.

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