"“Across both programs, you've learned how to connect worlds that too often remain separate: science and policy, finance and implementation, long-term thinking and immediate action. You are economists who understand climate modeling. You are scientists who can read a term sheet, and policy thinkers who keep communities and equity at the center of decision-making,” Alexis Abramson, dean of the Columbia Climate School, addressed the graduating class."
"“Take this moment in, celebrate what you've accomplished and the community that made it possible, and then carry the work forward. The world needs exactly what you've been preparing to give it. Congratulations, Class of 2026,” Abramson said."
"“Your education here has equipped you with not just the knowledge and skill base to contribute to solutions, but also to add analytical value and to advocate for change,” said Lisa Dale, director of the M.A. in Climate and Society program. Remember the reasons that brought you to this program, she urged the students, and “let that passion fuel your efforts as you move forward into leadership roles where you can make an impact.”"
Columbia Climate School held its 2026 Class Day ceremony for the fifth cohort of graduating students. The event included the M.A. in Climate and Society cohort and the inaugural M.S. in Climate Finance cohort. Students came from varied academic and professional backgrounds and represented many countries. Dean Alexis Abramson emphasized learning to connect science with policy, finance with implementation, and long-term thinking with immediate action, describing graduates as economists, scientists, and policy thinkers. She encouraged students to celebrate their progress and carry their work forward. Program directors Lisa Dale and Lisa Sachs highlighted analytical value, advocacy for change, and leadership grounded in passion and impact.
Read at State of the Planet
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]