At the launch of the Duke Campaign “Made for This” in February 2025, students took center stage in a session for alumni exploring the global energy transition and climate finance, highlighting the vital role of student-faculty collaboration in advancing solutions. Brian Murray, director of the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment and Sustainability, described how the institute connects Duke to global decision-makers while creating transformative learning experiences for students. These include new curricular and co-curricular offerings and opportunities for students to contribute to applied research and attend influential convenings. Jackson Ewing, the Nicholas Institute’s director of energy and climate policy, underscored Duke’s approach of bringing together public and private leaders to inform both research and teaching. He pointed to the United Nations Climate Change Negotiations Practicum, where students gain semester-long training and direct experience at global climate summits. Student panelists shared how these opportunities are shaping their paths. Master of Environmental Management student Charlotte Del Col ’26 works with Ewing on the James E. Rogers Energy Access Project, bridging coursework with professional application. Student Tyler Ratcliffe ’26 credited Duke courses and the undergraduate energy club with defining his student and career path. Ratcliffe co-developed a house course on energy and climate ventures that brought alumni back to campus to mentor students. READ MORE.