ADIRONDACK PARK, NEW YORK July 25, 2023 – Last week, the brand-new Timbuctoo Climate and Careers Institute hosted its first ever cohort of students for the summer, just a year and a half after the concept of the program had been initially discussed.

The program, which was created in partnership with SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and CUNY Medgar Evers College, brings high school students from New York City to the ESF campus in Newcomb. The program exposes students to green spaces they may not otherwise have access to, as well as to green careers, with the aim of diversifying students’ career considerations.

The program was championed by the Adirondack Council’s "Forever Adirondacks" Director, Aaron Mair, the state’s Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus, led by Caucus Chair Assemblymember Solages and Caucus 2nd Vice Chair State Sen. Zellnor Myrie, who sponsored the funding request last year.

“Meeting the inaugural class of Timbuctoo students in Newcomb was incredibly inspiring,” Raul J. Aguirre, Executive Director of the Adirondack Council said, “This ground-breaking program reminds us that the Adirondack Park belongs to all New Yorkers while also providing a career jumpstart to the next generation of environmental leaders. The Timbuctoo Climate and Careers Institute will strengthen the Adirondack Park by introducing new people to this national treasure and its importance for people and wildlife. Ensuring that more people know and appreciate the significance of the Adirondack Park is one of the best things we can do to protect it. Congratulations to the first class, and to everyone who supported this idea and brought it to life.”

Caucus Chair Assemblymember Michaelle Solages said, "We are thrilled to champion the Timbuctoo Climate and Careers Institute, a program that embodies our commitment to empowering youth of color and diversifying career opportunities. By partnering with SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and CUNY Medgar Evers College, we are offering high school students from New York City access to green spaces and green careers in the Adirondack Park. This initiative reflects our dedication to creating inclusive and sustainable pathways for the next generation of environmental leaders. By supporting programs like this, we can foster a deeper appreciation for the Adirondack Park's significance and promote environmental conservation among all communities. Congratulations to the inaugural class and to everyone who contributed to making this vision a reality. We look forward to expanding upon this historic investment,"

Caucus 2nd Vice Chair State Senator Zellnor Myrie said, "I am so proud to have fought for the Timbuctoo Climate and Careers Institute in last year's budget alongside Chair Solages and my BPHA colleagues. The students in this program will be our next generation of climate leaders, learning about New York's incredible civil rights history and how to apply those lessons to the fight for environmental justice today. I can't wait to see what these students accomplish with the skills and knowledge they gain from this incredible program."

Caucus Secretary Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, "Empowering NYC's high school students through an innovative environmental education program is a pivotal step towards a sustainable future. By nurturing their understanding of the environment and green career prospects, we cultivate a generation of eco-conscious leaders poised to tackle global challenges head-on. Let's equip these young minds with knowledge and skills to build a greener tomorrow for our city and beyond."

Caucus Parliamentarian Assemblymember Demond Meeks said “I am proud to see such a major investment being made toward preparing the next generation of environmental leaders. The health and welfare of our residents and families depend on our actions today to address climate change. Communities of color, in particular, are disproportionately impacted by its effects on our local environment. Tackling this issue requires creative solutions and meaningful reforms. The heart of the Adirondacks in Newcomb is the perfect space for our students to learn about the environment of New York State while developing skills that will support them in a range of both existing and emerging careers. Thank you to the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, CUNY Medgar Evers College, and my state colleagues for their commitment to our youth and the welfare of our community.”

Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson said, “I am excited for the expansion of the Timbuctoo Pipeline to help expose New York City students to the wonders of the Adirondacks in Northern New York. I am confident this partnership between SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and CUNY Medgar Evers College will give our students the tools needed to be aware of environmental issues and become strong advocates for climate justice. Students will receive a world-class experience, and I trust they will leave the program knowing that there are so many hidden gems right here in our great state.”

Paul Hai, SUNY ESF said, "Watching the first cohort of students arrive one by one at Medgar Evers on the first morning, and seeing them quickly bond during activities and become engaged in discussion, was one of the most powerful experiences I've had in the 23 years I've been working for ESF. Working to resolve the challenges our society faces, including the impacts of a changing climate and systemic environmental and social injustices, requires us to work together across disciplines, communities, and cultures. The Timbuctoo Institute models this type of approach by bringing together public institutions and agencies, private organizations and businesses, elected leaders and government, all with the goal of providing information and experiences to the youth of today, so they become the leaders and problem solvers of tomorrow."

Wallace Ford, CUNY Medger Evers College said, “The Timbuctoo Project is an excellent example of the importance of focus on various aspects of urban and non-urban impacts of climate change. The Departments of Public Administration and Chemistry and Environmental Science at Medgar Evers College are an example of CUNY in the present preparing for the future.”

Forty-eight high school students will be hosted by the program this summer to learn all about the environment, science and justice, which will run three 12-day sessions. It is the hope of the Timbuctoo Climate Science and Careers Summer Institute that this program empowers more young people to explore New York’s wilderness and consider the possibility of a green career.

Students enrolled in the program will be able to enjoy activities such as canoeing and hiking, while also learning valuable life and safety skills.