This past week, the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center had a presence in New York City for Climate Week NYC 2026. In partnership with the Sustainability Institute, the Environmental History Initiative, and the New York City Alumni Association Chapter, the Byrd Center helped host the Buckeye Sustainability Reunion, bringing together alumni, students, faculty, and friends for an evening of networking and conversation centered on sustainability and the environment.

Climate Week NYC took place September 20–27, 2026, bringing together policymakers, world leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, activists, and engaged citizens to discuss the future of the planet and efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Events throughout the week coincided with the United Nations General Assembly, where leaders from around the world gathered in New York City to address pressing global issues, including the impacts of climate change and the role of policy in responding to them.

Against this broader backdrop of global climate conversations, the reunion provided an opportunity to connect members of the Ohio State community engaged in sustainability and environmental work. Held on New York City’s Lower East Side, the reception welcomed more than 70 attendees and featured a panel of professionals working across environmental and sustainability-focused fields.

Panelists included Jamie Richards, Director of ESG at Bansk Beauty; Shannon Sullivan Roberts, Principal, Climate Change and Sustainability Services at EY; Julie Mansfield, Head of Global Buyer Growth at Carbonfuture; and Bart Elmore, Professor of Environmental History and Core Faculty Member of the Sustainability Institute.

Throughout the panel, speakers shared their professional journeys, reflected on how sustainability intersects with their careers, and discussed the different paths that can lead to work addressing environmental challenges.

A central goal of the reception was to strengthen connections across Ohio State’s sustainability community. Sustainability does not exist within a single academic unit or profession at Ohio State; it intersects with fields and industries across the university and beyond. Bringing together current students, alumni, faculty, and professionals created opportunities to exchange ideas, build relationships, and identify possibilities for future collaboration.

The evening concluded with continued conversation and networking as attendees explored how people across industries and disciplines can work together to advance sustainability efforts. By creating connections among those already working in sustainability and those interested in entering the field, the reception helped grow a broader Ohio State network committed to addressing environmental challenges and creating positive change.