We’re gearing up for our third year of the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP)—an online master’s degree program from Miami University with experiential learning here at LREC, the main Garden and other places around St. Louis.

This summer, we offered three courses for our current students. Even though everything needed to be virtual, we were still able to connect with local leaders from a number of different organizations around topics as varied as plant science in the Climatron, native pollinators, and environmental justice. We’re hopeful that by next summer we’ll be able to hold classes at Litzsinger and the Garden once again.

The AIP is a unique program and gives students a lot of freedom to pursue their own interests in a structured and supportive environment. It’s a part-time program designed for working professionals with interests in conservation, community, and inquiry. I’ve been thoroughly enjoying meeting our students, witnessing and supporting the work they are doing in their communities, and seeing the beginnings of a strong St. Louis component of a national network of students and graduates working for conservation all over the globe.

Does this sound like an interesting way for you to further your education? The next information session is Tuesday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m. Register to attend. Applications to the graduate school at Miami University are open until February 28. Learn more about applying. Please feel free to pass this information along to anyone who might be interested.

I’m happy to talk with you via phone, email, or video if you have questions!

Susan

Susan Baron, AIP and Adult Programs Coordinator, Litzsinger Road Ecology Center
susan.baron@mobot.org | (314) 691-2628