Dear Geography and Environmental Science Community,

As the year draws to a close, it is clear that we are experiencing a period of significant change and transition. Shifts in tax policy, public funding priorities, and federal governance are reshaping the landscape in which institutions, communities, and individuals operate—affecting everything from how services are funded and how wealth is generated, to decisions about work, retirement, and where people choose to live. Changes in national policy related to trade, immigration, and regulation, alongside an increasingly assertive executive branch supported by judicial decisions, have been presented under an “America First” framework. Collectively, these developments represent a notable departure from the balance among social, environmental, and economic priorities that has guided public policy for much of the past century.

Naturally, these changes prompt reflection on what they mean for our discipline and for our department. Our discipline is uniquely positioned to examine complex change, connect human and environmental systems, and provide clarity at times when it is most needed. Hence, geography and environmental science sit at the intersection of many of these shifts, and in some cases, we feel their effects directly. Federal support for climate and environmental research has become more constrained, longstanding national initiatives have been curtailed, and parts of the scientific enterprise face uncertainty. At the same time, the language of diversity, equity, and inclusion has largely disappeared from federal discourse—an absence that underscores the importance of reaffirming our own values.

Yet, even amid these challenges, the relevance of our work has never been clearer. The issues we study continue to command global to local attention. Environmental, geophysical, and public health concerns continue to intensify. Global carbon emissions reached record levels, recent months have seen heightened geophysical activity worldwide, and closer to home, New York City has faced an unusually early and strong flu season. These realities remind us that the systems we study are dynamic, interconnected, and consequential—and that society urgently needs the insight, perspective, and evidence-based understanding our field provides.

This moment calls not for retreat, but for renewed purpose. The work we do—through research, teaching, and service—remains a vital source of clarity, truth, and informed action. Governance priorities may shift over time, but the outcomes of today’s decisions will shape societies, economies, and environments for decades to come. That makes geography and environmental science essential, not only for understanding the present, but for preparing future generations to navigate what lies ahead.

Our mission remains clear: to explore and understand the relationships between human activity and environmental systems; to describe, explain, and predict change; and to use knowledge to inform policy and foster positive, inclusive, and equitable solutions. I am continually inspired by our community of full-time and adjunct faculty, students, and staff whose commitment ensures that our work benefits not only today’s society, but future generations of all people—and all living systems.

Special thanks go out to all receiving this message. Special because of the time we are in and the things you all do. To the staff of the department, thank you for maintaining and enhancing the system that allows the department to thrive. To the faculty, both full and part-time, thank you for the time and effort you put into your teaching, research and service. To our students, undergraduate and graduate, thank you for keeping us inspired through your insight, interest and dedication. To all alumni and affiliates, thank you for your continued support and for providing role models for us, as you apply your training to everyday challenges.

I wish everyone a joyful holiday season and a truly restful winter break. May you return in 2026 refreshed, energized, and ready to continue the important work ahead. Best wishes to all for a happy, healthy, and hopeful New Year.

Peter J. Marcotullio
Chair, Department of Geography and Environmental Science
Directory, CUNY Center for Sustainable Cities
Hunter College