On Friday, April 25, South Kent School welcomed students, faculty, and local guests to Bringhurst Auditorium for a special panel discussion, Watershed Moments: Balancing Nature with Local Land Preservation, Waterways, and Fire Safety in Changing Environments. The panel brought together environmental leaders to discuss the vital intersections of land preservation, watershed protection, and fire safety in today’s evolving environment.
The discussion, moderated by South Kent’s Director of Constituent Engagement, Dillon Duncan ’04, encouraged students and attendees to think critically about the delicate balance between protecting natural habitats and proactively managing fire hazards.
The event was particularly impactful for students enrolled in Earth Science, Biology, and Physics, who had the opportunity to connect their coursework with real-world applications. The panel of local experts featured Rebecca Neary of the Warren Land Trust and Connecticut Land Conservation Council, Rich Chavka, South Kent’s North Campus Coordinator, and Michael Kronick, Fire Control Officer for Connecticut’s Western District. Together, they explored how community action, education, and innovative collaboration are critical to protecting natural ecosystems while managing emerging environmental risks.
Prior to the event, panelists toured South Kent’s North Campus sustainability programs and shared lunch with students and faculty, creating opportunities for informal connection and deeper learning. During the discussion, students asked thoughtful questions about the future of conservation, fire safety best practices, and the real-world application of their studies in Earth Science, Biology, and Physics.
The afternoon was a true example of community engagement, drawing participation from South Kent students, faculty, and even members of Kent’s Emergency Management team. The event also attracted interest beyond the school community. Kent’s Emergency Management team was invited to attend, reflecting the shared commitment to addressing these critical issues at a regional level.
Academic leads, Lindsey Lefevre and Michelle Borsavage, played an instrumental role in organizing the event, ensuring that the discussion aligned with the students’ academic interests and course of studies.
As South Kent School continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, events like Watershed Moments serve as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and proactive management in preserving our natural resources. With ongoing discussions and initiatives, students and faculty alike are inspired to take action in protecting their environment for future generations.
Stay tuned for future panels and monthly in person talks at Bringhurst Auditorium.
