For over three months, the Global Terps for a Greener Future (GTGF) interns, Abigail (Abbey) Vanasse ‘27, a junior information science major and sustainability minor, and sophomore Omarichachukwu (Oma) Obiorah ‘28, a mechanical engineering major, have excelled in cultivating sustainability engagement and education across campus.
Some of their key accomplishments this semester include launching the Global Terps for a Greener Future Collective, advocating for UMD’s commitment to the CANIE Accord, and creating an inclusive sustainability education campaign. Their work this semester expands the foundation established over the summer, moving the GTGF program toward a long-term model for sustainability and intercultural learning at UMD.
Early in the semester, Abbey and Oma partnered with the ISSS Engagement & Inclusion team to build a space where undergraduate and graduate students across disciplines could learn from one another and collaborate on sustainability projects. That work launched the Global Terps for a Greener Future Collective, a growing community committed to promoting environmental care and global well-being. The GTGF Collective is now developing a spring fair to showcase campus research and creative work aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Additionally, Abbey's research on international education and sustainability led to a presentation to the Office of International Affairs leadership on the potential impact of joining the Climate Action Network for International Education (CANIE) Accord. Their efforts helped elevate UMD’s global engagement with sustainable practices and networks. Oma focused on digital storytelling, producing an educational social media campaign that amplifies diverse student voices and fosters critical conversations on balancing economic, social, and environmental priorities.
The interns’ leadership this semester strengthened ISSS’s sustainability efforts and modeled how intercultural collaboration can advance the public good. As GTGF grows, its work will continue shaping a more sustainable, connected global community at UMD.