| Overall Rating | Bronze |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 40.10 |
| Liaison | Laurie Kman |
| Submission Date | Oct. 2, 2024 |
Lewis University
AC-5: Immersive Experience
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 2.00 |
Laurie
Kman Manager of Facilities and Sustainability Facilities |
Does the institution offer at least one immersive, sustainability-focused educational study program that is one week or more in length?:
A brief description of the sustainability-focused immersive program(s) offered by the institution:
Yes, through the Lasallian Institute from Lewis University research is conducted that focuses on sustainability challenges around the world.
Im May of 2024 Dr. Jerry Kavouras brought together students and faculty from Lewis University, Manhattan College, and New Mexico State University to explore the cultivation and sustainability of cacao, a vital global crop in Yopal, Colombia.
Hosted by the Universidad de La Salle’s Utopia campus, the group immersed themselves in the Lasallian model of education, where Colombian students receive tuition-free education focused on sustainable agriculture. Dr. Kavouras highlighted the students' impressive commitment, noting their involvement in campus life and preparation for entrepreneurial ventures after graduation.
A key part of the trip was learning from the Cacao Federation of Colombia about global cacao production challenges, including deforestation, child labor, and soil contamination. The group also visited Luker Agricola, where they witnessed sustainable farming practices and learned about the entire cacao production process, from grafting techniques to quality testing.
The trip also offered insights into advanced agricultural research at Utopia’s laboratories, where efforts are being made to support local farmers through innovations like disease-free crops and the use of drones and robots.
Dr. Kavouras described the experience as "eye-opening," deepening the students' understanding of sustainable agriculture and global food production challenges. The trip underscored Lewis University’s commitment to providing students with global educational opportunities that foster learning and innovation.
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