La Sierra University presents second sustainability talk, ‘Ask the Experts’

  College of Arts & Sciences   Science+Technology+Environment  

RIVERSIDE, Calif. -- Following the success of its inaugural event, La Sierra University’s Sustainability Speaker Series returns this November with its second edition, “Ask the Experts.” The event will feature a distinguished panel of sustainability leaders who will share insights into environmental stewardship and discuss collaborative strategies for sustainable development in the region.

<p> Rafael Guzman, Assistant City Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Riverside has spearheaded multiple sustainability initiatives. (Photo courtesy of Rafael Guzman) </p>

Rafael Guzman, Assistant City Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Riverside has spearheaded multiple sustainability initiatives. (Photo courtesy of Rafael Guzman)

<p> Jonathan Parfrey&nbsp;is the founding director of Climate Resolve and a long-standing advocate for climate adaptation and resilience. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Parfrey) </p>

Jonathan Parfrey is the founding director of Climate Resolve and a long-standing advocate for climate adaptation and resilience. (Photo courtesy of Jonathan Parfrey)

<p> Jessica Sutorus, Environmental Conservation Supervisor for the City of Colton, oversees various conservation programs and energy efficiency efforts. &nbsp;(Photo courtesy of Jessica Sutorus) </p>

Jessica Sutorus, Environmental Conservation Supervisor for the City of Colton, oversees various conservation programs and energy efficiency efforts.  (Photo courtesy of Jessica Sutorus)

The event will occur on Monday, Nov. 18 from 5-6 p.m. at the Troesh Conference Center, located within the Zapara School of Business at La Sierra University. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

This second installment of the series will feature a unique 'fireside chat' format with a panel of three area experts in sustainability:

  • Rafael Guzman, Assistant City Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of Riverside. Guzman has spearheaded multiple sustainability initiatives, including Riverside’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan, the Zero Emission Vehicle Transition Plan, and various innovative environmental projects.
  • Jonathan Parfrey is the founding director of Climate Resolve and a long-standing advocate for climate adaptation and resilience. His extensive work includes roles as a commissioner at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and involvement in climate initiatives related to the LA28 Olympics and Paralympic Games.
  • Jessica Sutorus, Environmental Conservation Supervisor for the City of Colton, oversees various conservation programs and energy efficiency efforts. Sutorus has dedicated more than two decades to public service in environmental conservation and sustainability.

Moderated by La Sierra University's Sustainability Studies Program, this fireside chat will allow attendees to engage with these leaders through a guided Q&A session, with additional time for audience questions. Attendees will gain invaluable knowledge on how local communities advance sustainability goals and how individuals and organizations can contribute to these efforts.

The Sustainability Speaker Series is part of La Sierra University’s broader initiative to engage students, faculty, and the surrounding community in discussions that promote environmental justice and sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The series aims to foster a sense of community around sustainability and reduce duplication of efforts through regional collaboration.

“I am so glad that we’ve started this conversation here at La Sierra,” said Dr. April Summitt, provost at La Sierra University. “It will take all of us -- talking, listening, learning, and working together -- to ensure that our local and global environment is healthy and sustainable for future generations.”

La Sierra University’s Sustainability Studies Program, established through a $3 million Title V grant from the U.S. Department of Education, is rapidly growing. The program offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability & Society and two Bachelor of Science degrees in Sustainable Agriculture Entrepreneurship and Urban Plant Agriculture.

Event Details:
Date: November 18, 2024
Time: 5-6 p.m.
Location: Troesh Conference Center, Zapara School of Business, La Sierra University, 4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside.
Cost: Free and open to the public
Registration: forms.gle/Q1HeVT5TVvB37n2a6

For more information, contact Tabetha Johnson at tjohnson@lasierra.edu or call 909-744-2843.

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