The Rhode Island Environmental Education Association’s (RIEEA) annual Summit, Art for Eco-Literacy and Activism, will feature prominent eco-centric artist May Babcock as the keynote speaker on March 16, 2024, at Rhode Island College, in Providence. Babcock, a certified invasive plant manager and master gardener who has exhibited both nationally and internationally, transforms sediment, seaweed and excess plants into handmade paper for expansive installations, organic sculptures, textured pulp paintings and more, revealing the complexities of various waterways in New England, reconnecting people to the voice of the land and waters.

Each year, the Summit gathers individuals, organizations and communities from throughout the state and many fields—including nonformal educators, teachers, university/college faculty and staff, students, environmental justice advocates and representatives in health, business, agriculture and science—to build networks, gather resources, share best practices and cultivate leadership skills for widespread environmental literacy adoption and implementation.

“This is a ‘healthy planet’ opportunity to connect with environmentalists around the state,” says  Jeanine Silversmith, executive director of RIEEA, which is the primary network of environmental organizations and businesses that lead Rhode Island’s environmental education, conservation and sustainability efforts.