Detroit

What to expect:

Theme: Ecological Justice

Economic and social forces over the last 50 years have strongly and often negatively affected the health of cities across the Midwest (hence the term, Rust Belt). But people are remarkably creative and adaptable in such situations, and they are generating new economies and healthy cultures in many places. This course will provide students with ways to notice, understand, and live within these patterns of resilience and restoration. A key part of the course will be an immersive trip to Detroit, MI, during mid-term break to see these patterns in action.

• Get an up-close look at the heart of Detroit, a city that encapsulates the peril and promise of the modern U.S.A.
• Meet people engaged in urban agriculture, environmental justice, transformation via the arts, outdoor conservation and recreation, and more.
• Visit small businesses and not-for profits working to improve quality of life in their hometown.
• Interview stakeholders whose views may differ, and come to understand complex issues from multiple perspectives.
• Imagine creative ways to be an “agent of renaissance” in the place you call home.
• Enjoy great food and interesting sights in a historic U.S. city.

Upcoming Terms & Trip Leaders

every other year

• Spring Term 2024-25 – Jonathon Schramm