GESS Fall 2025 Energy Lunches

Hosted by Mary Finley-Brook, author of Climate Crisis, Energy Violence, in collaboration with community partners. Pizza provided.

“How Solar Energy Can Be Transformative”

This community-based research presentation demonstrates solar energy as a fuel type, economic investment, and social organizing strategy. Mary Finley-Brook will discuss the structural and symbolic roles of solar in energy transition in Virginia and Puerto Rico. Richard Walker, CEO of the nonprofit Bridging the Gap in Virginia, will present programs for green workforce development in the City of Richmond.

*In UR’s Forum, Blake Deyhle of Bridging the Gap in Virginia will demonstrate solar features of the nonprofit’s utility van as well as display local garden sites with unique solar installations like ‘raincatchers.’

Also in the Forum, Quentin van Marcke de Lummen (RC'93), owner of the solarized food truck Waffles-On-Wheels, will speak about being a solar-powered entrepreneur and will distribute free waffles (11:30 a.m.– 2 p.m. or while supplies last).

Sponsored by the Department of Geography, Environment, & Sustainability, the Environmental Studies Program, and the Class of 1992 Fund.