1. Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability and Energy
  2. Research Centers

Outreach and Impact

Outreach and Impact

At the Institute for the Study of Environment, Sustainability and Energy (ESE Institute), our mission extends beyond the classroom. We are committed to advancing environmental knowledge, building community partnerships, and empowering students to make a real-world impact. Through research, education, and outreach, we collaborate with diverse partners to address today’s environmental challenges and create a more sustainable future.

Our outreach is grounded in strong research partnerships and applied projects that make a difference locally and globally. These include:

Our impact is amplified through strong collaborations with organizations that share our vision for sustainability, education, and social change. These partnerships offer real-world engagement opportunities for students and faculty alike:
  • Geenex – Sponsors sustainability career events and provides mentoring for students interested in solar energy development.
  • Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) – Grant-funding partner supporting fellowships and student research opportunities.
  • Living Room Conversations – Partner for the NIU Cohesion Project, promoting dialogue and civic engagement among students.
  • Lake County Government and Village of Downers Grove – Capstone project clients working directly with students.
  • Goodwill of Northern Illinois, Waste Management, OSI Group, Northern Illinois Food Bank – Collaborators on sustainability events, internships, and educational initiatives.

ESE students play an active role in outreach and advocacy, applying what they learn to real-world situations through:
  • Community-Engaged Courses and Professional Capstone Projects – Solve real environmental problems in collaboration with local partners.
  • Faculty-Directed Research – Participate in studies like the Bird Collision Study and ecological work in the Restoration Lab.
  • Campus Sustainability Internships – Gain applied experience in environmental communication, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.
  • Student Organizations – Get involved with the ENVS Student Advisory Board and the Justice and Sustainability Association to lead initiatives and build community.
  • Events and Recognition – Take part in high-impact programming like Earth Week, the Climate Teach-In, the Fall Career Exploration Fair, and the Spring Awards Ceremony.

At the ESE Institute, outreach is not an add-on — it’s a core part of our mission. Through active research centers, strategic partnerships, and student-driven initiatives, we are empowering today’s environmental leaders to drive change in their communities and advance a more sustainable world.

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Contact Us

Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability and Energy
325 Montgomery Hall
DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: 815-753-1814
Email: envs@niu.edu