National Geographic Launches Initiative Connecting College Students with Innovative Changemakers

Inaugural 'National Geographic On Campus' program premieres at University of Miami

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Oct 29, 2018, 13:01 ET

WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Geographic Society announced its new initiative, National Geographic On Campus, an inspiring event designed to unleash the spirit of exploration in college-age students, which features live talks, engaging panels and educational workshops. The program will premiere at the University of Miami (UM) in Coral Gables, Florida, on Nov. 9-10, 2018.

The two-day science and storytelling event, developed in collaboration with UM, will bring together National Geographic Explorers—photographers, scientists, storytellers and educators—with UM scholars and local thought leaders for a series of dynamic talks and interactive workshops. Students will have the opportunity to explore local and global issues—from the unique challenges facing Florida to those facing our planet—and the strategies and transformative ideas that can be used to help solve these critical issues.

"Our goal is to inspire and empower changemakers by connecting students with National Geographic's resources and worldwide community, helping propel solutions for the greater good," said Michael L. Ulica, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer at the National Geographic Society. "The University of Miami is the ideal partner to kick off this program due to its passion for innovation and excellence in science, journalism and the arts."

The program will begin with the World Without Borders Science & Storytelling Symposium, delving into varied pressing topics such as: illegal wildlife trafficking, immigration and immigrant identities, and how to inspire positive change via storytelling. The following day consists of a full slate of National Geographic-led workshops, where attendees will gain real-world skills during hands-on classes covering photography, investigative journalism, public speaking and more.

"The University is thrilled about working with such a leading and multifaceted organization," said Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Jeffrey Duerk. "National Geographic is one of the most interdisciplinary organizations worldwide, with foci in science, communication, policy, research, technology and advocacy. As a university that is itself interdisciplinary and committed to excellence, the synergies are a natural. This new partnership affords UM students, faculty and staff greater access to experts, expanding our networks, and opening our horizons to provide new opportunities for collaboration."

This initiative will also offer attendees the opportunity to engage directly with National Geographic staff to acquire information about projects and grant programs available to students for advancement in a variety of disciplines.

The campus-wide event is open to all current undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs and UM faculty and staff. For more information and to view the complete two-day schedule, visit www.natgeo.miami.edu.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY
The National Geographic Society is a leading nonprofit that invests in bold people and transformative ideas in the fields of exploration, scientific research, storytelling and education. Through our grants and programs, we aspire to create a community of change, advancing key insights about our planet and probing some of the most pressing scientific questions of our time, while ensuring that the next generation is armed with geographic knowledge and global understanding. Our goal is measurable impact: furthering exploration and educating people around the world to inspire solutions for the greater good. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.org.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI
The University of Miami's mission is to educate and nurture students, to create knowledge, and to provide service to our community and beyond. Committed to excellence and proud of the diversity of our University family, we strive to develop future leaders of our nation and the world.

SOURCE National Geographic Society