A new member of the faculty will lead a new office at Augustana College. After a nationwide search, Michael Reisner has been hired to open the Upper Mississippi Studies Center.
College Dean, Pareena Lawrence, says the new center will focus on something called "sustainability science" - it starts with natural science but also includes geography, politics, history, and culture.
Reisner earned a Ph.D in ecology, and also has a law degree. Recently he worked for the University of Wisconsin to create more sustainable energy systems for the upper midwest. He'll teach one course each term, work with other faculty to develop related courses, and help organize internships and research projects for Augustana students.
The new center was first suggested in 2008 when the college was developing a new strategic plan, and is made possible by a grant from the Margaret Cargill Foundation.