ADVOCATING FOR ANIMALS: DYSON STUDENTS TAKE ACTION
The Animal Policy Project, an initiative launched by Professor Michelle Land, JD, within the Environmental Studies and Science department in Pleasantville this academic year, puts students at the forefront of animal issues, immersing them in hands-on research aimed at influencing policy while developing advocacy skills. Offering opportunities for students of all majors and at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the Animal Policy Project houses its cornerstone course entitled the Animal Advocacy Clinic, connects students to industry mentors on the Animal Policy Project Advisory Council, and presents firsthand experiences in lobbying.
“The Animal Policy Project is really about giving students opportunities to learn how to advocate for something they’re passionate about and connecting them to experts and resources,” said Land. “The topics we’re studying in the Clinic are all related to animal issues in New York State and have a science-based component, but students can employ the skills they learn in critical thinking, information-gathering, advocacy, and public speaking in any discipline or career.”
RECENT POSTS
Presenting at the Pace University Spring Research Conference
Students from the class Soils and Society: The Critical Zone (ENV 297T) presented at the Pace University Spring Research Conference, discussing their unique environmental studies course that examines soil as both a scientific and metaphorical framework for understanding environmental justice, labor, and identity.
Banning the Sale of the Red-Eared Slider
Students from Pace University’s Animal Advocacy Clinic drafted legislation in early May— now introduced in the New York State Legislature, that would prohibit the breeding, sale, and trade of the invasive red-eared slider turtle.