Press Releases

Naropa University Hosts Multiple Events
in Observance of Earth Week                                                                                                                       

BOULDER, Colo. (April 17, 2008)— At a time when an entire planet is celebrated, it shouldn't be hard to find ways to get involved. From an eco-fashion show to presentations on horticulture and beekeeping, Naropa University will be doing its part to honor nature in all its forms.                                                     

Anchoring the week-long observance is a ceremony titled "Earth Speaks We Answer" lead by Michael Brownlee, co-founder of Boulder Valley Relocalization. Beginning at noon on April 23, participants are invited to bring an earth object--rocks, fossils, seeds, etc.--and then give them a voice. We will be "speaking for the voiceless," says Brownlee, "And we will listen together to the Earth. Then, one by one, we will answer with our deepest, most heartfelt response. Can we stand together and answer Earth's calling? Can we speak together for humanity?" Held inside Naropa's Performing Arts Center located at the Arapahoe campus, the ceremony will open with music by Naropa's own student guitarist, Rosh, and awarding of the Zero Waste Hero Awards.

“I’m really excited to see the community come together for this celebration," says Naropa Environmental Leadership student and Earth Week organizer Jessica Johnson. "This is a unique Naropa event and an experiential ceremony that will allow all voices to be heard.” 

Helping the Wildland Restoration Volunteers to plant over 8,000 native plants and willows along Idaho Creek on April 26 will be a fitting finale for the week. Located within the new, 600-acre St. Vrain State Park, this revegetation project should help "create an oasis of habitat within a rapidly developing region." Volunteers are asked to register at http://www.wlrv.org. Lunch will be provided.

All events are free and open to the public. For a complete schedule of events, please visit the Naropa University Earth Week calendar at www.naropa.edu/about/env_earth.cfm.

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Naropa University is a private, nonprofit, nonsectarian liberal arts institution dedicated to advancing contemplative education.  This approach to learning integrates the best of Eastern and Western educational traditions, helping students know themselves more deeply and engage constructively with others. The university comprises a four-year undergraduate college and graduate programs in the arts, education, environmental leadership, psychology and religious studies.