The website uicsise.com is associated with the Summer Institute on Sustainability and Energy (SISE), an annual two-week intensive program hosted by the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Established in 2011, SISE serves as a "boot camp" for future leaders passionate about sustainability and energy, aiming to equip them with the knowledge and networks necessary to drive change in these critical fields.

Program Overview

SISE brings together a diverse cohort of participants, including senior-level undergraduates, graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and professionals from various disciplines. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and community engagement. Participants engage in high-level talks, site visits to energy and sustainability projects, and collaborative research initiatives. Evenings and weekends are often dedicated to team-based projects and exploring the city of Chicago, fostering a sense of community among attendees.

Themes and Curriculum

Each year, SISE selects a central theme to guide its curriculum. For instance, the 2021 theme, "Finding Ecosystem," explored the concept of personal and collective "bubbles" and how these influence perceptions of energy, environment, and climate change. The program encourages participants to consider the micro and macro perspectives of sustainability challenges and to question their own assumptions and knowledge gaps.

In 2017, the focus was on transportation, examining technological advances like autonomous electric vehicles, emerging mobility trends, infrastructure challenges, and the global and local impacts of transportation systems.

Application and Support

SISE is highly competitive, attracting applicants from across the United States and beyond. The program values diversity in backgrounds and expertise, aiming to create a rich learning environment. Notably, there is no program fee, and lodging is provided for all participants. Additionally, transportation support is available to many attendees, making the program accessible to a broad audience.

Community and Impact

Beyond the two-week program, SISE fosters an ongoing community of alumni, referred to as the "SISE family." With over 450 alumni, the network serves as a platform for continued collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development.

Conclusion

The Summer Institute on Sustainability and Energy stands out as a transformative experience for individuals committed to addressing sustainability and energy challenges. Through its immersive curriculum, emphasis on diversity and collaboration, and strong alumni network, SISE contributes significantly to preparing the next generation of leaders in sustainability and energy sectors.

The Evolution of SISE: From Sustainability and Energy to Climate and the Environment

The Summer Institute on Sustainability and Energy (SISE) was established in 2011 at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) as an intensive two-week program designed to educate and inspire future leaders in the fields of sustainability and energy. Over the years, SISE became renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, bringing together students, professionals, and academics from diverse backgrounds to engage in high-level discussions, site visits, and collaborative projects.

In 2023, recognizing the growing urgency of climate change, the program was rebranded as the Summer Institute on Climate and the Environment (SICE). This new iteration continues the legacy of SISE by focusing on climate change resiliency, mitigation, and adaptation, while maintaining its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement.

Themes and Curriculum

Each year, SICE selects a central theme to guide its curriculum. For instance, the 2021 theme, "Finding Ecosystem," encouraged participants to examine the "bubbles" or silos that influence perceptions of energy, environment, and climate change. This theme prompted discussions on how individual and collective definitions impact our understanding and actions regarding sustainability.

Community and Impact

Since its inception, the program has cultivated a vibrant community of over 450 alumni. These individuals, hailing from various disciplines and regions, continue to collaborate and contribute to sustainability and climate initiatives worldwide. The program's emphasis on diversity and inclusion ensures a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, fostering innovative solutions to complex environmental challenges.

Conclusion

The transition from SISE to SICE reflects UIC's adaptive approach to evolving environmental issues. By focusing more directly on climate change while retaining its foundational emphasis on sustainability and energy, SICE positions itself as a critical platform for developing informed, interdisciplinary leaders equipped to tackle the pressing environmental challenges of our time.