This series of fellows brings together leading scholars and practitioners working at the forefront of climate science, environmental justice, and sustainable policy. Each has advanced our understanding of how ecological systems, human communities, and political institutions intersect in an era of accelerating environmental change. Their work addresses the scientific, social, cultural, and ethical dimensions of climate adaptation and sustainability, from hydrological systems and atmospheric science to Indigenous knowledge and environmental governance.
Ryan E. Emanuel is a hydrologist and community-engaged scholar at Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment, where he is an associate professor of hydrology and co-chair of Duke’s program in Community Engagement and Environmental Justice. His research interests span the environmental sciences and extend into history, Indigenous studies, environmental justice, and research ethics. Emanuel and his research group have partnered with Tribal Nations, environmental organizations, and community groups to conduct research and science-based advocacy, and their work has influenced public policies and corporate actions related to environmental justice and tribal engagement.
Lesley-Ann L. Dupigny-Giroux is a Professor of Climatology in the Department of Geography and Geosciences, the Vermont State Climatologist since 1997, and the President of the American Association of State Climatologists from 2020-2022. An applied climatologist by training, Dr. Dupigny-Giroux's research interests intersect a number of interdisciplinary fields including hydroclimatic natural hazards and climate literacy, climate services, geospatial climate and land-surface processes, all within the context of our changing climate.
Chuck Sams is Oregon’s Council Member on the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, serves as Oregon Tribes Scholar in Residence, and is a Senior Fellow with the Native Environmental Sovereignty Project at the University of Oregon’s Environmental and Natural Resources Law Center. He also is Director of Indigenous Programs at Yale’s Center for Environmental Justice and lectures at Yale’s Environmental School. Previously, Chuck was the 19th director of the National Park Service within the U.S. Department of the Interior.