ISSUED: 29 January 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University has joined the Rachel Carson Campus Network (RCCN), a national coalition of colleges and universities dedicated to expanding student engagement in environmental advocacy, public health, and climate justice.
Dr. Jeffrey Groff, professor of applied physics at Shepherd’s Department of Natural and Physical Sciences, and Sydney O’Shaughnessy, adjunct professor of communications, collaborated to bring this opportunity to students. The partnership reflects the interdisciplinary nature of RCCN, which blends environmental science, advocacy, and storytelling into its programming.
The partnership kicked off on January 21, 2026, with a University farm tour led by Dr. Groff, followed by a student meet-and-greet with the Rachel Carson Council’s director of student engagement.
“Welcoming Shepherd University into the Rachel Carson Campus Network reflects the kind of interdisciplinary, student-centered engagement that is at the heart of our work,” said Diego Tovar, director of campus and civic engagement at the Rachel Carson Council. “This partnership brings together environmental science, advocacy, and storytelling that empowers students to connect their academic studies with real-world environmental and public health action. We’re excited to support Shepherd students as they develop the skills and confidence to become effective environmental leaders on campus and beyond.”
By joining the RCCN, Shepherd University strengthens its commitment to interdisciplinary learning and civic engagement, empowering students to connect academic study with real-world environmental action on campus and beyond. Interested students can now apply for paid fellowships through the Rachel Carson Council. Applications are due by April 17, 2026.
ABOUT THE RACHEL CARSON CAMPUS NETWORK
The Rachel Carson Campus Network, led by the Rachel Carson Council, connects students, faculty, and campus organizations with opportunities for hands-on learning, leadership development, and environmental advocacy inspired by the legacy of Rachel Carson. Through the network, Shepherd students will gain access to fellowships, advocacy training, storytelling and writing opportunities, in-person advocacy days on Capitol Hill, and access to participate in national campaigns focused on pressing environmental and environmental justice issues. Faculty interested in learning more about the Rachel Carson Campus Network, or in connecting students with RCCN opportunities, can contact Diego at diego@rachelcarsoncouncil.org.
ABOUT THE RACHEL CARSON COUNCIL
The Rachel Carson Council, founded in 1965, is the national environmental organization envisioned by Rachel Carson to carry on her work after her death. The Rachel Carson Council promotes Carson’s ecological ethic that combines scientific concern for the environment and human health with a sense of wonder and reverence for all forms of life in order to build a more sustainable, just, and peaceful future.
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