2026 Fall Symposium
Think and Do: Climate Challenges and Solutions
October 7-8, 2026
Save the Date: October 7-8, 2026
2026 program details will be updated as they become available.
Scroll down to see what we did in 2025.
Our 2025 symposium will highlight climate mitigation and adaptation solutions. Join us for engaging speakers, panel discussions, poster presentations, showcase of innovations and networking opportunities.
This year’s panel discussions will provide case study examples in conversations with collaborators working on successful projects.
Thanks to generous support from NC State University’s Sustainability Fund, R.L. Rabb Science and Society Symposia endowment, Eastman Chemical, and the Kenan Institute for Engineering, Technology & Science, there is no cost to attend this symposium.
Engaging Keynote Speakers
there are many ways to be a part of the symposium
2025 Agenda
Our speakers and panelists are confirmed. All times are eastern time (ET) and all events will take place in Duke Energy Hall in the Hunt Library. Presenters and panelists include North Carolina State University faculty and outside experts.
Wednesday October 1, 2025
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 10:00 am | Workshop Registration Opens |
| 10:30 am – 12:00 pm | Communications Workshop |
| 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm | Lunch (for workshop participants only) |
| 12:30 pm | Registration Opens, Poster set-up |
| 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm | Keynote Speaker – Georgann Eubanks and Donna Campbell |
| 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm | Facilitated Table Discussions on Communications |
| 2:30 pm – 2:45 pm | Networking Break |
| 2:45 pm – 4:15 pm | Panel 1: Sustainable Proteins |
| 4:15 pm – 5:00 pm | CLP Lightning Talks |
| 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm | Poster Session/Reception |
| 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Innovation Showcase/Reception |
Thursday October 2, 2025
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:15 am – 8:55 am | Registration and Breakfast Buffet |
| 9:00 am – 10:30 am | Panel 2: Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery |
| 10:30 am – 10:45 am | Networking Break |
| 10:45 am – 11:45 am | Keynote Speaker: Costa Samaras |
| 12:00 pm – 1:15 pm | Lunch with themed tables |
| 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm | Panel 3: City Design and Tourism |
| 2:45 pm – 3:15 pm | Networking Break |
| 3:15 pm – 4:45 pm | Panel 4: Energy Grids |
| 4:45 pm – 5:00 pm | North Carolina’s State Energy Office |
| 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm | Reception |
Location and Logistics

All symposium events will take place in the Hunt Library (1070 Partners Way, Raleigh, NC 27606), in Duke Energy Hall (2nd Floor).
The KIETS Climate Leaders Program Fall Symposium, Think and Do: Climate Challenges and Solutions, is open to everyone interested in learning more about research and innovation addressing climate challenges and seeking viable solutions. The one and a half day symposium will highlight the work being done by the Climate Leaders Program students and mentors, North Carolina State University Faculty and external experts.
There is no cost to attend the symposium, present a poster or display at the Innovation showcase. To ensure responsible use of funds, notify Amanda Mueller (ammuell2@ncsu.edu) of any cancellations as soon as possible, but no later than September 22, 2025
Hotel
Hotel accommodations are the responsibility of the attendees. You can find a list of area hotels at https://mckimmoncenter.ncsu.edu/area-hotels/
