“The land is the real teacher. All we need as students is mindfulness.” ― Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants.
Nature has a lot to say if only we will listen. Join SSU students, faculty and members of the public for nature journaling and dialogue at the SSU Butterfly Garden, grounded in a short passage from Braiding Sweetgrass. Light refreshments will be provided. Diversity of age, culture, background, identity and more will be celebrated at this event, and all are welcome. This event is being held in partnership with Hutchins Connect, the community outreach arm of Hutchins School of Liberal Studies, and lower division classes LIBS 101 and LIBS 201.
Leader
Margaret Anderson, Professor, Hutchins School of Liberal Studies, and Acting Director of the Hutchins Dialogue Center, designed as an institutional home for dialogue at Sonoma State University. Through the HDC, facilitation of dialogue, design of curriculum, and training for faculty, staff and students can occur across all sectors and in many academic and community contexts.
Logistics
We will meet at the Butterfly Garden on the Sonoma State University main campus. The SSU Butterfly Garden is located on the northeast side of campus, along the Copeland Creek Trail. We recommend parking in lot G (click here then select "Sonoma State" to purchase a Daily Parking Permit in advance), or traveling by bicycle or public transportation.
No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate. This event is recommended for ages 17 and up. We will be doing a minimal amount of walking. No pets or smoking permitted.
COVID-19 Safety
Do not attend if you test positive for COVID-19 or if you have any symptoms that may be indicative of COVID-19, even if you are vaccinated. All SSU updated guidelines can be found here.
What to Bring
Please bring rain, sun and insect protection as needed, as well as a cup and materials to journal with. Shoes appropriate for walking around a garden and dirt path, and long pants for possibly sitting on the ground are recommended.
There is a restroom and potable water available at various places across campus.
How to Sign Up
See registration link below. Each person should register separately. This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.