Earlier this June, I had the opportunity to attend the 2025 Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit, a gathering of thinkers, changemakers and practitioners working to shape a more sustainable future.
As a representative of the University of Dayton and the Hanley Sustainability Institute, I was honored to learn and share the impacts across the Midwest.
The summit opened with a powerful and thought-provoking keynote by Dr. Lyla June Johnston. An Indigenous author, musician and community organizer, Dr. Johnston presented a blend of traditional knowledge, academic research and personal storytelling.
She spoke of the pre-colonial Indigenous food systems and intentional widespread gardening, highlighting sustainability’s roots in the mutual relationships between humans and the Earth.
I realized that I had unconsciously carried stereotypes of Indigenous communities and untouched “wilderness” over the years. I was humbled to learn how these landscapes were rather carefully tended and designed on reciprocity rather than efficiency.
I left the keynote reminded of the importance of listening to diverse voices, questioning assumptions and being empowered to learn more.
Throughout the day, I attended several breakout sessions, each offering unique insights and resources.
One standout was “Threading Change: Mobilizing the Midwest’s Sustainable Apparel Industry.” Panelists demonstrated their efforts in transforming fashion’s complex linear systems into more circular ones. They highlighted their efforts and backgrounds in regional fiber production, repair hubs and take-back programs.
As a member of HSI’s circularity team, the discussion sparked a lot of inspiration. With this, I am excited to explore how we can incorporate these ideas and resources into our clothing swap initiative and other potential projects.
I also gained a new appreciation for food systems and agriculture in our region. Growing up in Dayton, I had visited the Cincinnati Zoo quite often, but I had no idea of its operations. Hearing from Hydroponics Technician Zack Burns, I learned of Cincinnati Zoo’s hydroponics program, which produces over 8,000 pounds of pesticide-free romaine and kale each year on-site. Burns spoke of how the system cuts Scope 3 emissions and doubles as a STEM learning lab. This session made me see my hometown zoo in a new light.
Beyond listening, I was able to contribute directly to the summit as well. I had the chance to help set up the summit’s Grounding Space. Designing the clay activity backdrop and arranging bamboo decorations to create a calming, reflective environment for attendees.
While I supported designing several of the posters, I also had the opportunity to present on behalf of UD and HSI. Our displays sparked great conversations, thoughtful reflections and a sense of connection with other institutions.
I felt well-represented and proud to be a part of UD’s community working towards a more sustainable and just future.