The Global Change Center (GCC) held their Faculty Retreat at the Skelton Conference Center at the Inn at Virginia Tech on January 26, 2024. The event proved to be a success, drawing an excellent turnout, and fostering new connections among faculty members.

  • 12:45-1pm           Arrivals
  • 1-1:45pm             High Level Remarks with Q&A, Dr. William Hopkins
  • 1:45-2:45pm      Group Initiatives and Future Opportunities
    • 1:45pm      Dr. Leighton Reid, Ecological Restoration Working Group
    • 2pm           Dr. Jacob Barney, Invasive Species Working Group
    • 2:15pm      Dr. Julia Gohlke, REH NIH T32 Program
    • 2:30pm     Dr. Amy Pruden, AMR NSF NRT Program
  • 2:45-3:05pm      Break
  • 3:05-4:15pm       Faculty Flash Talks
    • 3:05pm    Dr. Stella Schons, FREC
    • 3:15pm     Dr. Shannon Bell, SOC
    • 3:25pm    Dr. Ryan Calder, PHS
    • 3:35pm    Dr. Elizabeth Nyboer, FWC
    • 3:45pm    Dr. Tina Dura, GEOS
    • 3:55pm    Dr. Holly Kindsvater, FWC
    • 4:05pm    Dr. Landon Marston, CEE
  • 4:15-5:15pm        Reception                        

The agenda for the afternoon was packed with high-level updates on the GCC and IGC, flash talks from new faculty affiliates, and exciting program updates from GCC community members. Notably, this year's retreat incorporated program updates, addressing faculty interests in forming working groups, pursuing federally-funded training grants, and exploring team funding opportunities. Talented faculty members provided updates on their initiatives, offering valuable insights into the associated opportunities and challenges.

1 Welcome

Hopkins Stands in front of crowd giving a presentation

The day ended with a social where it was evident that the opportunity to gather in person allowed for meaningful connections to be made. Thank you to everyone who participated, making the retreat a success, and special appreciation goes out to all the speakers for their valuable contributions!