Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
University of Wisconsin–Madison

Environmental Events

Nelson Institute Featured Events

Sep
9

Welcome to Nelson: New-Student Orientation

Start your Nelson experience with purpose, people, and a sense of place. Our fall new-student orientation is the perfect opportunity to casually build community and confidence as you navigate life in the Nelson Institute.

September 9, 2026    
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Alumni Park (meet next to the Goodspeed Family Pier)
Sep
14

Tales from Planet Earth Presents OVERBURDEN

Overburden follows rangers, scientists, and forest defenders who tend the land, protecting endangered species and sustaining livelihoods as a billion-dollar company falls short of promised support. 

September 14, 2026    
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Marquee Cinema, Union South
Sep
25

Rendezvous on the Terrace

Join the Nelson Institute for our annual gathering for alumni and friends, Rendezvous on the Terrace! Catch up with friends, meet fellow alumni, and chat with Nelson Institute students, faculty, and staff. Join us on September 25 for food, fun, and a celebration of our 2026 alumni award winners.

September 25, 2026    
5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Memorial Union Tripp Commons
Oct
15

Homesick for a World Unknown: The Life of George B. Schaller

The Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies is honored to partner with the Madison Public Library to host environmental advocate, journalist, and filmmaker Miriam Horn during the 2026 Wisconsin Book Festival.

October 15, 2026    
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Central Library, Room 302

Events contact: Alessandra Rella, Outreach Specialist, arella@wisc.edu

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Research Center Seminars

Climate, People, and the Environment (CPEP) Program

Hosted by the Center for Climatic Research

View all CPEP seminars

Weston Roundtable

Hosted by the Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment

View all Weston Roundtable seminars

CHE Environmental Colloquium

Hosted by the Center for Culture, History, and the Environment

View all CHE environmental colloquia

Video Library

View recordings of past events on topics ranging from climate change to environmental justice. The library includes videos from Nelson Institute signature events such as Earth Day, as well as seminars hosted by our research centers.

View our video library

Campuswide Environmental Events