Hudson McFann (2010-2011) Fulbright Scholar
Fulbright Canada Scholar Hudson McFann (2010-2011) was recently selected to participate in a 22 person youth delegation to the United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, McFann will represent an organization called SustainUS at the meeting in Rio, which marks the twentieth anniversary of the 1992 Earth Summit. SustainUS is a volunteer-run nonprofit that promotes sustainable development and encourages youth empowerment in the United States. As a member of the SustainUS “Agents of Change” program, McFann will work on policy recommendations that address the various ecological and social crises that confront our world. The Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development is a prestigious conference that provides recent graduates and young professionals from across the United States with an opportunity toengage in the process of policy recommendations. Delegates draft policy documents, make speeches on the floor at the meeting, engage in consultations with government delegates, lobby for specific policies, and collaborate with other youth from around the world. When asked by SustainUS about his policy objectives, McFann said, “I am determined to focus attention on the enduring environmental impacts of war. The socio-ecological importance of peace and nonviolence is too often underemphasized.” The Summit is expected to address two main thematic issues: the green economy in the context of poverty eradication and sustainable development, and the institutional framework for sustainable development. Sustainable development is an important issue that requires immediate attention. The 2012-13 Fulbright NEXUS program, an initiative that brings scholars from across the Western Hemisphere for three seminar meetings and a residential exchange, will focus on the overlapping themes of sustainability and entrepreneurship, with a focus on climate change adaptation and related technologies. Fulbright NEXUS scholars conduct individual and team-based research projects designed to generate knowledge-based, policy-oriented solutions regarding sustainable development, climate change, and innovation. “The NEXUS program is an exciting new initiative. It allows Fulbright Canada to pursue core priorities, it supports future leaders by promoting collaborative research, and it encourages thoughtful and meaningful public debate,” says Fulbright Canada CEO Michael Hawes. “We are proud to learn that Hudson McFann will be attending the 2012 Earth Summit in Rio. SustainUS provides an excellent opportunity for students to develop skills necessary to become successful leaders, and I am positive that Husdon’s contribution will have a significant impact on the policy debate.” The Summit will take place in Rio de Janeiro from June 20-22. More information about the delegation, including Agent of Change profiles and contact information is available here http://www.sustainus.org/agents . Find regular updates on SustainUS and the Commission via blog athttp://sustainus.org/agents-of-change-blog. For more information on the Fulbright Program please visit http://www.fulbright.ca/, or the Fulbright Facebook page.
