Dr. Sylvia M. Jenkins, president of Moraine Valley Community College, accepted the Craig Stettner Award for Environmental Education from the Chicago Audubon Society.
Dr. Sylvia M. Jenkins, president of Moraine Valley Community College, accepted the Craig Stettner Award for Environmental Education from the Chicago Audubon Society at its 2019 Biennial Environmental Awards banquet on March 23.
Jenkins received the award for her service on the Conservation and Policy Council of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County over the last four years. As a council member, she helps advise the Cook County president, board of commissioners and the Forest Preserves of Cook County general superintendent on steps to implement the Next Century Conservation Plan’s vision of an ecologically healthy and stable forest preserve system.
Last November, Jenkins hosted a forum at Moraine Valley for faculty, students and sustainability professionals from the eight community colleges in Cook County as well as two City Colleges of Chicago. About 70 people attended to discuss the value and potential use of the surrounding forests. Jenkins also serves on the Illinois Green Economy Network Steering Committee.
“As educators, it is important for the voices of community colleges to be heard regarding environmental plans in our communities,” Jenkins said. “We are in the unique position to educate our students about the value of the forest preserves. They are a wonderful hands-on learning environment, and I’m proud to support these initiatives. Thank you to the Chicago Audubon Society for recognizing Moraine Valley’s commitment to sustainability.”
