April 30, 2019
On Monday, April 22, 2019, the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies launched the Year of the Environment, a year-long celebration recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Nelson Institute and the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. The launch took place at the annual Earth Day Conference, where former Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold and former Wisconsin Congressman Thomas Petri opened the event with a special conversation regarding the bi-partisan efforts that led to the development of Earth Day, including those of Earth Day founder and Nelson Institute namesake, Gaylord Nelson. Former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson also addressed the audience via a pre-recorded video message.
Over the next year, the Nelson Institute invites you to join us in commemorating these milestones by participating in celebrations, special events, and public lectures, which can be viewed here.
We also invite you to become a part of the Earth Day legacy by making a gift in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary. Your support will ensure that the Nelson Institute remains a vibrant, active, intellectual, and community-centric hub. It will also allow us to continue to pursue new opportunities, address strategic priorities, and enhance and expand our teaching, research, and public service roles, including the Earth Day Conference. Gifts in any amount are needed and appreciated!