Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability

08/05/2026

When Lt. Joshua Diaz joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 2007, he never imagined that a graduate degree would become a turning point in his career. Nearly two decades later, Diaz credits Virginia Tech’s Online Master of Natural Resources (OMNR) program with helping him rise through the ranks and lead critical offshore energy initiatives.

In Field Notes, the College of Natural Resources and Environment’s 2026 digital magazine, read how CNRE helped Diaz: https://cnre.vt.edu/magazine/issues/spring-2026/from-coast-guard-to-global-sustainability.html

“Without question I would not be where I am today without the foundation I gained at Virginia Tech,” Diaz said.

07/23/2026

We're proud to highlight OMNR professor Heather E. Eves who recently presented at the NACCR Symposium. Her session showcased how real-world, project-based learning prepares the next generation of conservation leaders with the skills and confidence to make an impact from day one!

07/08/2026

🌿 Turning classroom knowledge into community impact!

OMNR student Zach Gardens recently led a citizen science initiative in St. Mary's County, Maryland, encouraging residents to "Become a Biologist for a Day" by documenting local plants and wildlife. It's a great example of how our students apply what they learn to make a difference beyond the classroom.

You can read more about it here:

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — What if a simple walk outdoors could help shape the future of environmental conservation? That’s exactly the idea behind an upcoming citizen science event in St. Mary’s County, where residents are invited to step outside, observe nature and contribute real scientific data th...

06/24/2026

From the U.S. Coast Guard to a career in sustainability leadership 🌎

Online Master of Natural Resources student Joshua Diaz leveraged the knowledge, skills, and network gained through Virginia Tech’s OMNR program to advance their career and expand their impact.

Their story is a powerful example of how graduate education can help professionals turn passion into purpose. 💼🌱

How Virginia Tech’s MNR Program Shaped Lt. Joshua Diaz’s Career.

06/23/2026

Students from Glasgow Caledonian University and Virginia Tech recently came together for an online workshop focused on sustainability as part of a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative.

The project connected approximately 70 students from both institutions, creating opportunities for international collaboration and shared learning around sustainability challenges.

The initiative was co-designed by Dr. Dr. Gulen Hashmi of Glasgow Caledonian University and OMNR faculty member Kathy Miller Perkins, Professor of Practice at Virginia Tech.

05/22/2026

Congratulations to XMNR alum Ashley McKeon on being named President and CEO of the Soil Health Institute!

We’re proud to see our alumni advancing into leadership roles and making an impact across the natural resources and sustainability fields. Ashley credits the XMNR program for helping prepare her for this next step in her career.

Ashley McKeon, a seasoned agriculture and sustainability executive, will lead the Soil Health Institute into its next decade. McKeon, who previously led regenerative agriculture strategy for Cargill in Washington, D.C., will assume the role on June 1, 2026. She will work alongside Founding President...

05/15/2026

Congratulations to all our Online Master of Natural Resources students who graduated this year! We loved having the opportunity to celebrate your accomplishments together in Blacksburg!

05/13/2026

As part of our Spring recruiting efforts, we were proud to connect with future students, alumni, and environmental leaders at events across the region, including the 36th annual VMI Environment Virginia Symposium, DC Climate Week, Nature Forward’s Naturally Latinos, National Council on Undergraduate Research, and the MANRRS national conference.

Alongside faculty, students, and alumni, these events provided fantastic opportunities to share the impact of our programs, build connections, and engage with professionals shaping the future of sustainability and natural resources.

04/22/2026

We'll be in attendance, tomorrow, April 23rd! Come by, say hello, and learn more about a Master of Natural Resources.

04/16/2026

Join CLiGS at DC Climate Week starting April 20!

Starting on April 20, Virginia Tech's Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability is joining DC Climate Week (DCCW) for a community-organized week of events, exhibitions, tours, screenings, and gatherings across Washington, DC. Together, we will explore the challenges of the climate crisis and discover the solutions that give us hope.

You’ll find VT CLiGS participating as an exhibitor at the following events during DC Climate Week:

Mon April 20 - DCCW Opening Ceremony
Tues April 21 - DCCW Leadership Forum
Thurs April 23 - Virginia Tech DC Area Open House

Other events featuring Virginia Tech and alumni include the following:

Tues April 21 - Green Building Tour of Virginia Tech in the D.C. Area's Academic Building One with SmithGroup where the Executive Master of Natural Resources class weekends are held

Wed April 22 - Collective Refuturing Workshop co-hosted by VT Executive Master of Natural Resources alumna Kate Leftin

DC Metro Area Chapter - Virginia Tech Alumni Association and beyond, whether you’re deep in the work or just getting started, let’s build a community that drives climate action!