The Patrick '61 and Marcelle Leahy Center for the Environment
Research. Contemplation. Action.
Developing environmentally conscious citizens as leaders, advocates, scientists, artists, humanitarians, thinkers & business people.
Our Mission
Through research, contemplation, and action, the Center for the Environment strives to...

Prepare students to think and act critically and creatively by combining their intellectual pursuits with immersive experiences to tackle the world’s most complex issues as environmental leaders - locally and globally.
Evolve the culture of sustainability on campus and in our community to have a social impact and leave a legacy for future generations.
Foster connection between students and career experts to create career exposure and structure learning experiences such that students leave with essential workforce skills, career preparedness, and purpose.
We Teach, Learn, and Steward
We envision the C4E as a hub. A place to engage. A place to grow. A place to experience and make a difference.
In Our Living Laboratories
Across six classrooms to impact the greater SMC and VT communities. Exploration of these areas happen in the traditional classrooms and our campus-wide living laboratory.
Student Opportunities
Connections with the greater community expand students’ access to an immersive learning experiences.
Latest News on the Center
- Natural Area plays predictable, useful role during epic Vermont flooding
- Happy surprise: Study-abroad pair ‘graduates’ via Zoom from Ireland
- Academic study trips are intensive, enriching
- Historic grant, thanks to Sen. Leahy, to expand Center for Environment
- Faculty/staff bike enthusiasts enjoy healthy trips to, from, around campus
Meet the Team
Kristyn Achilich
Director, Center for the Enviroment
Christine Gall
Farm & Food Manager
Portia Buytrm
Event & Outreach Coordinator
James Nagle, M.A., Ph.D.
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor
Katy Farber, M.S., Ed.D.
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor
Declan McCabe, M.S., Ph.D.
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor
Trevien Stanger, M.S.
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor
David Heroux, Ph.D.
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor
Brian Collier, M.F.A
Steering Committee, Faculty Advisor