Spring 2027 Course Spotlight: Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems (ENVS 210/H210)

Where does our food come from, and how can we create food systems that are healthier, more equitable, and environmentally sustainable?

Explore these questions and more in ENVS 210/H210: Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems, a community-engaged course offered at NIU in Spring 2027!

Taught by Dr. Kristen Borre, this interdisciplinary course examines the environmental, social, economic, and political dimensions of food systems, from agricultural production and distribution to consumption and waste management.

Through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and field experiences, students will explore how local food systems connect to broader challenges of sustainability, food security, and environmental justice.

What Will You Explore?

Students will examine food systems from local to global perspectives, including:

• Sustainable Agriculture: Explore agricultural practices that support soil health, water conservation, and environmental sustainability.

• Food Security and Justice: Examine inequalities in access to affordable, nutritious food and the social and environmental factors contributing to food insecurity.

• Food Systems and Policy: Investigate how policies, social action, and economic systems influence food production, distribution, consumption, and waste.

• Community Food Systems: Learn how local organizations, gardens, and food pantries support community resilience and food access.

• Environmental Impacts: Explore connections between agriculture, resource conservation, food waste, and ecological health.

Hands-On and Community-Engaged Learning

One of the highlights of ENVS 210/H210 is the opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world food systems.

Students will participate in experiences such as:

• Working with NIU's Communiversity Gardens and local food pantries.

• Visiting local farms to observe sustainable agricultural practices.

• Engaging with community leaders and organizations addressing food equity.

• Exploring agroecological approaches to soil and water conservation.

• Learning how community partnerships can strengthen local food systems.

These experiences provide opportunities to develop practical knowledge while contributing to conversations and initiatives that support more sustainable and equitable communities.

Course Details

• Course: ENVS 210/H210, Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems

• Semester: Spring 2027

• Meeting Times: Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30–4:45 p.m.

• Instructor: Dr. Kristen Borre

• Format: Community-engaged learning

• General Education: Fulfills NIU's Nature and Technology Domain requirement

Why Take This Course?

Food systems connect to nearly every aspect of environmental sustainability, from land use and water resources to climate change, public health, social justice, and community development.

Whether you're majoring in Environmental Studies or exploring sustainability through another discipline, this course offers an opportunity to better understand how food systems shape our environment and communities.

ENVS 210/H210 is especially relevant for students interested in sustainable agriculture, environmental justice, food security, public policy, conservation, and community engagement.

Interested in Enrolling?

Students can find ENVS 210/H210: Introduction to Sustainable Food Systems in MyNIU when planning their Spring 2027 schedules.

For questions or additional information, contact:

Dr. Kristen Borre
Email: kborre@niu.edu

Discover how food connects people, communities, and the environment, and explore ways to help build a more sustainable and equitable food system!

Summer 2027 Internship Opportunities with Civil & Environmental Consultants in Naperville

Looking for an opportunity to gain professional experience in environmental consulting, natural resources, engineering, or geospatial technologies? Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) is recruiting students for its Summer 2027 Internship Program at its Naperville, Illinois, office!

CEC is an environmental and engineering consulting firm that works with clients on a variety of environmental, infrastructure, and development projects. Its internship program provides students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects while learning from experienced professionals.

Available Internship Areas

CEC is currently seeking potential interns in five practice areas:

• Air Quality: Explore air quality assessment, emissions, environmental regulations, and related consulting work.

• Cultural Resources: Learn about the identification, documentation, and management of cultural and historic resources.

• Environmental / Solid Waste: Gain exposure to environmental consulting, waste management, environmental assessment, and regulatory compliance.

• Geotechnical: Explore soil and subsurface conditions, site investigations, and geotechnical engineering applications.

• Survey / Geospatial: Apply surveying, mapping, and geospatial technologies to environmental and development projects.

Specific responsibilities and qualifications will vary by practice area.

Internship Details

• Organization: Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC)

• Term: Summer 2027

• Location: 1230 East Diehl Road, Suite 200, Naperville, IL

• Opportunities: Air Quality, Cultural Resources, Environmental / Solid Waste, Geotechnical, and Survey/Geospatial

• Application Status: Resumes are currently being accepted.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

Environmental consulting offers a variety of career pathways for students interested in applying environmental science, policy, research, and technical skills to real-world challenges.

For Environmental Studies students, these internships may provide opportunities to:

• Gain experience working on environmental and technical projects.

• Explore different career paths within environmental consulting.

• Apply research, fieldwork, analytical, or geospatial skills.

• Learn about environmental regulations and consulting practices.

• Build professional connections and develop workplace skills.

CEC's broader internship program also includes mentoring, professional development workshops, and opportunities to collaborate with experienced staff.

How to Express Interest

CEC is currently collecting resumes for its Summer 2027 internship opportunities. Interested students are encouraged to reach out!

Students should submit their resume and indicate which practice area or areas interest them.

Recruitment Contacts:

Natalie Wrazen
University Relations Recruiter
Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.
nwrazen@cecinc.com

Brian James Wozniak, P.E.
Vice President / Chicago Operations Lead
Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.
Office: 630-963-6026

Students can also explore the company's internship program and learn more about available opportunities:

CEC Internship Program

Visit Civil & Environmental Consultants

Take the next step toward an environmental career and gain hands-on experience with a professional consulting team right here in northern Illinois!

DeCarbon Dialogues Return: Explore Local Climate Solutions November Through March!

What does climate action actually look like in northern Illinois? From changing weather patterns and renewable energy to sustainable agriculture and land stewardship, addressing climate change starts with understanding the challenges and opportunities in our own communities.

DeCarbon DeKalb is launching a new season of DeCarbon Dialogues, a free monthly discussion series bringing together local experts, researchers, and community members to explore practical approaches to climate action.

The series begins Wednesday, November 4, 2026, and continues on the first Wednesday of each month through March 2027.

Upcoming DeCarbon Dialogues

November 4, 2026: What's Coming for Northern Illinois?

How will climate change affect northern Illinois? Explore projections for hotter summers, heavier rainfall, severe weather, and changing seasonal patterns.

The opening discussion features NIU meteorology researchers Kelvin Hawthorne, Caitlin Roufa, Thomas Schwent, and Dr. Quinton Lawton from the Department of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment.

December 2, 2026: Your House Is a Climate Solution

Discover how homes can contribute to climate solutions while improving energy efficiency and affordability.

Representatives from the Citizens Utility Board and Metropolitan Mayors Caucus will discuss weatherization, energy costs, electrification, and practical steps homeowners and renters can take to reduce their environmental impact.

January 6, 2027: Solar: Fact or Fiction?

Explore the opportunities and challenges of solar energy, including residential solar, community solar, utility-scale installations, electricity grids, land use, and economic considerations.

February 3, 2027: Can We Farm the Sun?

Can renewable energy production and agriculture work together?

Brooke Watson and Chauncey Watson IV from Watson Farms / Illinois Solar Grazing & Mowing will discuss agrivoltaics, solar grazing, and opportunities to integrate renewable energy production with agricultural land management and ecological stewardship.

March 3, 2027: Land Stewardship at Home

Explore how everyday landscapes can contribute to environmental sustainability.

Milton Dixon and Bill Wilson from Midwest Permaculture will discuss permaculture, foraging, food production, habitat creation, and ecological landscaping practices that support healthier ecosystems.

Event Details

• When: First Wednesday of each month, November 2026 through March 2027

• Time: 6:30–8 p.m.

• Where: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, IL

• Cost: Free and open to everyone

• Who Can Attend: Students, faculty, staff, and community members. No prior knowledge or experience required!

Participants are welcome to attend individual sessions or the entire series.

Why Attend?

For Environmental Studies students, the DeCarbon Dialogues offer opportunities to connect classroom learning with environmental challenges and solutions in our own region.

The series explores topics related to climate science, energy transitions, sustainable agriculture, environmental policy, ecological restoration, and community resilience.

Students can also hear directly from researchers, sustainability professionals, and community organizations working on these issues throughout northern Illinois.

Save the Date: DeKalb County Earth Fest!

The conversations will build toward DeKalb County Earth Fest on Saturday, April 10, 2027, bringing together community members and organizations to celebrate sustainability and local climate action.

Learn More

Visit DeCarbon DeKalb's DeCarbon Dialogues webpage for additional information about the series.

For questions, contact DeCarbon DeKalb at hello@decarbondekalb.com.

Climate action begins close to home. Join the conversation, ask questions, and discover how local efforts can contribute to a more sustainable future!

Paid Spring 2027 Congressional Internship Opportunities: Apply by November 15!

Interested in public policy, environmental legislation, government, or community engagement? The Office of U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) is accepting applications for its paid Spring 2027 Internship Program!

Internship opportunities are available in both the Lombard, Illinois, and Washington, D.C., offices, providing students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in the legislative process, public service, and constituent engagement.

This opportunity may be especially appealing to Environmental Studies students interested in environmental policy, energy policy, sustainability, public administration, and the role of government in addressing environmental challenges.

What Will You Do?

Congressional interns work alongside legislative and constituent services staff, gaining valuable experience in the daily operations of a congressional office.

Responsibilities may include:

• Policy Research: Research legislative issues and topics relevant to constituents and congressional priorities.

• Community Engagement: Assist with planning and coordinating community events and outreach activities.

• Legislative Activities: Attend briefings and gain exposure to the federal legislative process.

• Constituent Services: Support staff working with residents and addressing community concerns.

• Professional Development: Build communication, research, organizational, and public service skills.

Specific responsibilities may vary depending on the office location and assignments.

Internship Details

• Program: Spring 2027 Congressional Internship

• Employer: Office of U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06)

• Locations: Lombard, IL, and Washington, D.C.

• Compensation: Paid internship

• Eligible Applicants: Undergraduate students, recent college graduates, and currently enrolled graduate students

• Application Deadline: November 15, 2026

• Application Review: Rolling basis

Why Consider This Opportunity?

For students interested in environmental studies, political science, public policy, economics, or related fields, a congressional internship offers an opportunity to better understand how policy decisions are researched, developed, and communicated.

Students interested in environmental and energy policy may find this experience particularly valuable for exploring careers in government, advocacy, nonprofit organizations, or public administration.

Beyond policy knowledge, interns can gain transferable skills in research, professional communication, public engagement, and collaboration.

How to Apply

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through November 15, 2026. Interested students are encouraged to apply early!

Visit the official internship page to learn more about the available positions and application process:

Apply for Congressman Sean Casten's Spring 2027 Internship Program

Questions?

For additional information, contact the Office of Congressman Sean Casten.

Will Daugherty
Staff Assistant
Office of U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06)
Phone: (202) 225-4561

Explore a career in public service while gaining firsthand experience with the policies and processes that shape our communities!

Spring 2027 Course Spotlight: Philosophy of Food (PHIL 338)

What do our food choices say about our values? How does food production affect the environment, and what can we do to create a more sustainable and equitable food system?

Explore these questions and more in PHIL 338: Philosophy of Food, offered at NIU in Spring 2027!

Taught by Professor Mylan Engel, this community-engaged service-learning course examines the philosophical, ethical, and environmental issues surrounding food, agriculture, and the ways we produce and consume what we eat.

What Will You Explore?

Through discussions and community-engaged learning, students will consider important questions about our food systems, including:

• Food Security: What can we do to reduce food insecurity and hunger?

• Food Justice: Do our food choices contribute to the oppression or exploitation of others?

• Nutrition and Health: Are there good and bad foods, or is everything acceptable in moderation?

• Food Safety: How do we know our food is safe, and what can we do to improve food safety?

• Environmental Sustainability: How can we reduce the climate impacts of agricultural practices?

• Sustainable Consumption: How can consumers identify and support sustainably produced food?

Course Details

• Course: PHIL 338, Philosophy of Food

• Semester: Spring 2027

• Meeting Time: Tuesdays, 6–8:40 p.m.

• Instructor: Professor Mylan Engel, Department of Philosophy

• Prerequisites: None

• Format: Community-engaged service learning

The course also counts as an elective for NIU's Certificate of Undergraduate Study in Applied Ethics.

Why Take This Course?

Food connects many of today's most pressing environmental and social challenges, from climate change and resource use to food insecurity and social justice.

For Environmental Studies students, PHIL 338 offers an opportunity to examine the ethical dimensions of sustainability and explore how individual choices, agricultural practices, and larger food systems affect communities and ecosystems.

The course is particularly relevant for students interested in sustainable food systems, environmental justice, agriculture, public health, and sustainability policy.

Interested in Enrolling?

Students can find PHIL 338: Philosophy of Food in MyNIU when planning their Spring 2027 schedules.

Learn more about NIU's Philosophy courses at go.niu.edu/phil-courses.

Explore the connections between food, ethics, and sustainability, and discover how our decisions about food can help shape a more just and sustainable future!