In Fall 2024, HELI focused on the intersection of environmental justice, agriculture, and climate economics. A three-part panel series on industrial agriculture explored environmental, legal, and labor implications in partnership with the UI Center for Human Rights. This collaboration also included a keynote by author Corban Addison, whose book Wastelands was featured in the One Community, One Book program. HELI also co-sponsored the Iowa Law Review Symposium on The Economic Implications of Climate Change, featuring national scholars and leaders. Read more here.

In Spring 2025, HELI turned its attention to climate impacts on insurance, food systems, and environmental law. New York Times reporter Christopher Flavelle and finance professor Martin Grace examined the “Iowa effect” of climate change on insurance markets. Author Austin Frerick discussed corporate power in the U.S. food system, while the Labor and Climate Conference convened organized labor leaders and environmental advocates to explore rising heat’s impact on worker safety. Harvard Law Professor Richard Lazarus closed the semester with a keynote on the history and future of environmental law. Read more here.

A hallmark of this year’s programming was HELI’s emphasis on collaboration. Fifteen of the 18 events (83%) were co-hosted with campus and community partners — a testament to the initiative’s commitment to inclusive, cross-sector engagement. Through thought-provoking discussions and diverse partnerships, HELI continues to support the next generation of environmental leaders. With momentum continuing to build, HELI looks   forward to another year of convening critical conversations and advancing environmental leadership across disciplines.