Geography Awareness Week: Declare Your Interdependence

Earth is the same size it’s always been, but never before has its inhabitants been so interconnected. Geography Awareness Week is celebrated from November 11 to November 17 this year, and its theme is "Declare Your Interdependence."

"The theme has been described as understanding how Earth’s interconnected human, ecological, and geophysical systems function," said Kelly Frothingham, associate professor and chair of the Geography and Planning Department.

In observation of Geography Awareness Week, the department sponsored a photo contest, using the Year of the City theme. Graduate student Britney McClain won first prize with her photo “Clandestine” (pictured). The winners were announced at an “Eat Local” lunch on Tuesday, November 13, which featured food prepared using only local fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats.

Students who wear a shirt showing a picture, graphic, or words that relate to geography on Tuesday and Wednesday will be eligible for a chance to win a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card.

On Wednesday, November 14, Stephen Vermette, climatologist and professor of geography and planning, will present “Climate Change in the City” in the Classroom Building A209.

An understanding of geography is an asset to students in many different disciplines, according to Frothingham. She said, “Understanding the complex relationship between people and place, and the impact of movement of people from one place to another over time, becomes essential to understanding geopolitics, global economics, and cultural changes.”