Clark University Joins RCC to Grow Sustainability Initiatives
In the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts, Clark University, founded in 1887, has long been a pioneer in exploring the frontiers of knowledge—both in the realms of psychology, famously visited by Sigmund Freud in 1909, and in the quest for sustainability. This fall, amidst crisp air and falling leaves, Assistant Director of Campus and Civic Engagement Diego Tovar arrived at Clark, hosted by Dr. Morgan Ruelle, Assistant Professor in the Environmental Science and Policy program within the Department of International Development, Community, and Environment (IDCE).
Statue of Sigmund Freud
Diego began his visit with a tour of the historic campus before delivering a guest lecture to Dr. Ruelle’s main environmental policy class, emphasizing the role of community engagement in shaping effective management systems. The lecture sparked a rich dialogue among students, who explored ways to intertwine local action with broader efforts of environmental justice. Following his lecture, Diego hosted an informational session about the National Environmental Leadership Fellowship (NELF), where students learned about RCC’s opportunities to turn advocacy into action, to attend the RCC American Environmental Leadership Institute (AELI) in July, 2025, and to receive mentoring and a stipend of $2,000.
Diego Tovar and Dr. Morgan Ruelle
Diego also met with key faculty members, each contributing uniquely to Clark’s sustainability and social justice initiatives. He met with Dr. Jude Fernando, Associate Professor in the IDCE, who focuses on social justice, sustainable development in urban communities, and the political economies of NGOs. Diego also connected with Ravi Hanumantha, Visiting Assistant Professor in the IDCE, whose work bridges sustainability and social justice. Additionally, he met with Michelle Johnson-Sargent, Assistant to the Director for Budget & Data in the IDCE, who manages the department’s resources to enhance its impact on sustainable development.
On Campus at Clark University
Tovar’s Clark visit concluded with a collaborative discussion with Dr. Ruelle, and Dr. Laurie Ross, Director of the IDCE, exploring potential partnerships and future initiatives. In recognition of Clark University’s commitment to environmental advocacy and interdisciplinary learning, it became the 71st institution to join the Rachel Carson Campus Network (RCCN), strengthening ties between the RCC and one of the nation’s most innovative universities.
