Leading and Learning at Eco Bash
Every year, students in the club EcoReps plan a day of workshops and field trips to educate their peers on sustainable living and cultivate a love and respect for the world around them. In the current climate crisis, it’s more important than ever to do what we can to mitigate the effects of our changing climate.
To start the day, environmentalist and speaker Eben Bein talked to students about change, policy, and existing in our bodies at this time. They also stayed to host a joint workshop with the Massachusetts Youth Climate Coalition on advocating for state-level environmental reforms.Â
Continuing the expert-led workshops, two BB&N alumni, Laurel Valchuis ’02 and Hallie Lenahan ’11, joined students to lead a workshop based on their profession. Valchuis shared details about the operating costs of her vegan, sustainable meal kit business, al FreshCo, and the economic and environmental consequences of expanding her business to a national one.
In the second workshop block, Lenahan discussed effective environmental communication techniques for aspiring journalists and writers. Through various outlets, including traditional news sites, social media, and more, students can advocate for broader changes through multiple channels to have a more profound impact.
In addition to these special alumni workshops, fan-favorite field trips and sessions returned this year, including walking and biking along the Charles River, birding, and many art-based activities.
Through student and faculty engagement, the 2025 Eco Bash created a fun and encouraging environment for students to expand their thinking about sustainability at all stages of their lives. Thanks to Laurel Valchuis and Hallie Lenahan for joining their alma mater for a day of learning and collaboration.
