Emma Dannenberg
Class of 2024
Concentrations
Visual Arts and Film
Why does your field matter – how does it impact our world/the average person?
I think separately, my study of art and environmental issues matter so much and impact the world and average person immensely. Art is a universal language, something that is loved, thought provoking, and needed in the turbulent times that we are facing so much nowadays. Art allows for expression of feelings and is also a powerful tool in education and advocating for important things that need to be discussed. I think looking at the intersection of my fields is where I have truly found my life’s passion and purpose, and where I think the world could benefit greatly. This intersection is the realm of environmental art, which is using art as a form of education on the environmental issues we are facing today, such as the climate crisis, mass extinction, deforestation, etc. I think it is an incredible way to reach large audiences and introduce these tougher topics to the mainstream population and get people to become passionate about saving our planet and all the species, including us, who call it home.
Why did you choose Champlain to study this?
Champlain’s smaller class sizes allow me to make connections and build relationships with professors, faculty, staff, and other students. The close connections I have made at Champlain will hopefully allow me to secure a job after college in something that will be supportive, but also something I am passionate about. Champlain’s location in Burlington allows for wonderful experiences and relationships with people, businesses, organizations, and NGOs that are both in the art world and the environmental studies and activism world.
Describe your other professional experiences so far. Have you worked on-campus or in a work-study position?
I have been so incredibly lucky to be a part of the Eco-Reps program as my work study on campus. It is my second year in this position and I can already confidently say that Eco-Reps has changed my life. Dr. Christina Erickson, who runs the Center for Service and Sustainability, initiated the Eco-Reps program here at Champlain and has fostered an inspiring and educational environment that I am so glad to contribute to and learn from. As an Eco-Rep, I’ve had the opportunity to grow my leadership skills, become a peer educator about sustainability practices and environmental awareness, and get to work with an amazing group of individuals. Because of Eco-Reps, I have been able to hear from so many inspiring speakers and play a part in so many amazing events. Most recently, I volunteered with Vermont Fish and Wildlife’s Beach Turtle Nesting clean up at North Hero State Park where I got to learn and be an active participant in the wildlife conservation efforts for the endangered Spiny Softshell Turtle and help release some hatchlings back into the wild. Even though my time here at Champlain isn’t quite done yet, I know that being an Eco-Rep has been one of the greatest opportunities of my experience here.
