Matt Davenport: Welcome to the Michigan Minds Podcast, where we delve into the extensive knowledge offered by faculty experts at the University of Michigan. I’m Matt Davenport, a science writer and public relations representative with Michigan News.

Almost a year ago, the university officially announced its strategic blueprint and guiding principles for the next decade, aiming to become the defining public university. Locally, this strategy is better recognized as Vision 2034. Sustainability and climate action are among the focal points of this vision, and to help achieve our objectives in these areas, the university established a new role—the Vice Provost of Sustainability and Climate Action.

Today, we are joined by the very first individual to occupy this role, Professor Shalanda Baker, to discuss the advancements our community has made over the past year and her vision for the future. Thank you for being here, Vice Provost Baker.

Shalanda Baker: I’m delighted to be here. Thank you.

Matt Davenport: Can you take us back to last summer, when you were preparing to start your journey here? Just for context, you were previously the director of the Office of Energy Justice and Equity at the U.S. Department of Energy. What aspects of the university captured your interest and encouraged you to take the next step in your career?

Shalanda Baker: Sure. Reflecting on last summer, I was getting a lot of rest, having spent approximately 42 months in that position at the Department of Energy. I started on day one, and prior to that, I was at Northeastern University, serving as a professor of law and public policy. In that administration, I had the chance to truly develop the country’s framework for energy justice. Every day, I wrestled with the question, “How can we ensure our energy transition is just and equal?”

When I pondered my next chapter, I thought, “Returning to academia sounds appealing and will be quite relaxing after that role, but academia carries immense potential in terms of its outreach.” Every day, we encounter hundreds and thousands of students in the academic setting. We can use that interaction to profoundly influence the world and the path of our planet.
It felt like a natural progression for me to utilize the considerable impact I could have through the classroom, working alongside the world’s top researchers, and being at a university that is eager to innovate while asserting its commitment to climate and sustainability issues. The more I discovered about this institution, the more I recognized, “Wow, Michigan has a rich history in these domains and is also eager to amplify its efforts and truly make a statement during this critical time.”

Matt Davenport: What were your main priorities upon entering this position? Clearly, you needed to acclimate and familiarize yourself with the organization, but what were your key objectives as vice provost?

Shalanda Baker: This is intriguing, as I came in and reviewed the lengthy job description, which spans around seven or eight pages, broken into three main areas. The first relates to curriculum, the second to research, and the third to community impact. On the curricular side, I wanted to start laying the groundwork for students to comprehend the educational offerings surrounding sustainability and climate. A key short-term goal is to establish a navigator so students can explore all the course options available on campus and understand how richly they are receiving sustainability education.

My longer-term aim, however, is to contemplate requirements and whether we could implement a campus-wide requirement. This might be seen as controversial here at the University of Michigan, but what would a climate or sustainability mandate look like for every single student, ensuring that when they graduate, they are equipped to thrive in an era defined by climate change? In the research domain, my aim is to amplify our global impact. When entering as a professor, junior faculty, or postdoc, it’s easy to get lost in concentrating on a project for five to seven years.

You emerge after completing peer-reviewed research, initiate your next five to seven-year endeavor, and continue this cycle throughout your career. Often, that research doesn’t reach the hands of policymakers or community organizations. So the inquiry then is, how do we reimagine our approach to research in order to encourage collaborations with community members and policymakers, ensuring that our work creates a meaningful impact in real-time?

On the community impact front, I was genuinely interested in breaking down barriers to make academia more accessible to the community. There are numerous individuals on campus doing excellent work with community members. We have the Ginsburg Institute, the Tishman Center for Environmental Justice, and the sustainability clinic in Detroit. There are numerous centers focused on community-driven efforts, along with the Erb Institute and the Ross School’s contributions to the business sector.

However, there’s often no clear pathway or “front door.” One of my objectives is to clarify that entrance and to invite people in, affirming, “We’re here to serve communities, as we are a public institution.” One of the remarkable aspects of the University of Michigan is its status as a flagship public university with a public mission, which compels us to dismantle any obstacles and make this space more approachable. Those are just a few of my goals.

Matt Davenport: Indeed! Considering it’s a new role and you mentioned Michigan’s willingness to innovate, many have been accustomed to traditional practices before your arrival. What has been the response? How have individuals engaged with you in pursuit of these objectives?

Shalanda Baker: Yes. People didn’t hire me to uphold the status quo; it’s not really my forte. I enjoy…excitement. I enjoy discovering ways to dismantle existing structures and create new ones; constructing from the ground up is particularly fulfilling. However, throughout my journey, I’ve come to realize that even when there’s an invitation for transformation and enthusiasm surrounding it, often the sentiment is, “Yes, we want to embrace transformation, yet we’re not ready to change. If change is required, then we will withdraw.”

Consequently, the reaction has varied. Recalling my earlier point about curriculum, we do not impose core requirements here. To ensure that every student at the University of Michigan receives an education in climate awareness and literacy, certain aspects of our operations must shift. We need some flexibility in our first-year programs, in how we approach curriculum, and in our methods of community-engaged learning, fully comprehended.

Alterations are indeed necessary. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. There exists a dedicated group of individuals here who have committed to climate sustainability for decades. Michigan was among the pioneering universities in the nation to establish a sustainability school. A few years back, a substantial working group convened to create the President’s Commission on Carbon Neutrality. Vision 2034 is the result of extensive discussions around environmental justice, sustainability, and climate that have transpired on this campus for numerous years.

There are many who express, “Yes, we’re excited about your presence,” which is reflected in my schedule. There has been significant pent-up interest. As a leader, the challenge is, “How do I harness this demand and guide us through frameworks that might be uncomfortable but are essential for achieving substantial impact and accelerating our influence on the world?” The response has been largely positive; however, the real question remains, is there a willingness to engage in the transformative work essential for progress?

Matt Davenport: I understand you haven’t yet completed a full year here, and a year can hardly be considered a substantial amount of time. Nevertheless, have you identified areas that ignite your enthusiasm, show a great deal of promise, or have already yielded exhilarating developments?

Shalanda Baker: I reflect on the ways I find fulfillment in my role here. Whenever I attend meetings with students, their enthusiasm and readiness to engage are truly invigorating. These gatherings are filled with vitality. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens and the Graham Institute for Sustainability fall within my scope of responsibility, and the teams at both places are eager to contribute and amplify their efforts in propelling the university forward.

There’s an abundance of excitement. MI Hydrogen is a collective of scholars investigating hydrogen technology, responding partly to the initiatives under the Biden administration. They are continuing their efforts and contemplating how to involve the state in their work.

President Ono is likewise enthusiastic about the university’s research corridor. I’ve been collaborating closely with Skip Lupia, the interim vice president for research. Together, we have been engaging with researchers at the University of Michigan and within the URC to develop a state-wide research initiative aimed at enabling sustainable futures and a flourishing economy.

There is already a vast amount happening, and again, the pivotal question is, “How do we advance towards a unifying vision? What are our objectives? What are we aiming to accomplish?” Climate touches every aspect of existence. Sustainability similarly influences all facets of life.

Thus, the ongoing query is how do we quantify advancement? Clearly, there are net-zero objectives and carbon neutrality targets in the climate domain, yet measuring incremental progress can be challenging. One of my objectives is to identify metrics that we can employ to assess our progress over time.

Matt Davenport: We previously touched upon your prior service in the Biden administration. When you began, it was still under that administration, but we now find ourselves in the second Trump administration, where the messaging concerning climate has shifted drastically. The leadership asserts that concerns regarding climate are exaggerated, and many initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change are deemed, at best, unnecessary. In light of this, Vision 2034 delineates climate action and sustainability as crucial elements. Does the current political climate have any influence on our efforts at the University of Michigan?

Shalanda Baker: Absolutely. I am intensely focused on climate and sustainability, as well as climate action. The scientific consensus is unmistakable: we are in a crisis. This decade is critical for action. Life is fleeting, and I have dedicated mine to serving others, whether as a military officer, academia, or in public service, and now in this position.

My life’s mission revolves around addressing urgent contemporary issues. I feel privileged to hold such a remarkable position at a distinguished university, and I believe my responsibility is to remain vigilant regarding the urgency of our circumstances and steadfast in our goals. Currently, we maintain a clear focus. We continue to emphasize the science behind climate change and the urgency of the matter.

As we disseminate this information, it’s essential to connect the dots. A significant reason the narratives from the current administration resonate is that the investments aimed at mitigating climate change have yet to impact the populace directly. We were discussing an industrial upheaval designed to revitalize communities, but the benefits usually materialize after a delay of five to seven years; hence, people may not perceive the changes during that timeframe.

Our role, as a community dedicated to climate advocacy, is to enlighten others on the urgency, the necessary investments to counter climate change, and the associated benefits for their communities. I believe the Biden administration fell short in convincing American citizens that prosperity would accompany these investments.

My responsibility at the Department of Energy was to convey that narrative and ensure its authenticity. That element is crucial; we have struggled to fulfill those promises due to opposing forces undermining justice. Those most marginalized, the economically disadvantaged who have perpetually been overlooked, will persist in being sidelined amid these climate-saving investments. We must address all of these facets simultaneously.

In my current capacity, I am concentrating on assembling leaders across our university, along with researchers and students, to devise our strategy and establish action plans. It is vital to acknowledge the gravity of this moment and its implications.

It is important to note that developments in Washington or in Michigan’s political sphere are irrelevant. Every student here emerges from communities affected by climate change. This generation understands the stakes and demands action.

to act as responsible guardians of their tuition investments, and to ensure they’re equipped for that realm. Thus, that is my role, to guarantee they are ready to exist in that realm.

Matt Davenport: We’ve discussed energy justice and environmental justice, which are additional areas of impact under Vision 2034. They may not be officially included in your title, but they have always been integral to your work. How is that shaping our embodiment of the values at the University of Michigan? In what ways are the concepts surrounding energy equity aiding us in shaping our trajectory?

Shalanda Baker: The School for Environmental Sustainability has a profound grounding in environmental justice. We were the pioneer university in the nation to offer a curriculum in environmental justice. Our campus is home to some of the most prominent leaders within this movement and research sphere. Consequently, I’ve been gathering many of these leaders in what I am naming an environmental justice community of practice, to contemplate what that agenda should entail and how we can persist with this work on campus, in light of our historical function in supporting that research for our peers nationwide.

Our focus on environmental justice remains strong. We also collaborate with Dr. Tony Reames, a cherished colleague at the Department of Energy, who is a pioneer in the area of energy justice and energy equity. He and I continue to engage creatively on ways to ensure we promote and advance this work.

Environmental justice is undeniably embedded in all our sustainability and climate efforts. I recognize it’s a significant concern for many individuals I converse with, especially students. It’s ever-present, and due to my perspective and life experiences, I consistently integrate that into discussions. It’s perpetually included in our dialogues.
If we aspire to cultivate a world where all individuals prosper, we must consider the elements of justice, and we have to think about how we can include everyone in a world characterized by economic inequities, where we are already aware of substantial environmental inequalities. We will alter the landscape in the forthcoming years, so let’s endeavor to involve everyone in this journey.

Sometimes I might revert to my political viewpoint and responsibilities, but there exists a continuum, and for me, there is an ongoing emphasis on justice and equity and the validity of this endeavor as I assume this specific role. The history of this institution is what attracted me here, the legacy in environmental justice, sustainability, and the persistent struggle against injustice, including taking cases to the Supreme Court on diversity matters.

This history compelled me to this place, because I believed, “If any institution in the nation is going to uphold the standards, it will be the University of Michigan.” Therefore, I’m here for that. I’m here for the mission. I’m here to assist in organizing, to guide, to break barriers, to be on the frontline, so that everyone can join me in this endeavor.

Matt Davenport: You visited the School for Environment and Sustainability and delivered a speech while still associated with the DOE, and it was remarkable. There was a particularly poignant moment during your talk where you addressed the audience and reminded them of their responsibility in this context. I’m curious, as individuals contemplate that now, what guidance do you have for those examining their roles in response to this moment?

Shalanda Baker: Certainly. I believe there are two key aspects. One is to avoid looking away and ignoring the situation. We’re currently inundated with alarming news regarding climate and distressing information concerning democracy, generating a sense of despair among those engaged in environmental issues. However, this is the period when we must fight; now is the time to reconnect with our values and find our allies. Allow me to share a story about this.

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting Wisconsin. I was delivering a keynote at a large conference, and I felt anxious since this was not my typical audience of willing coalitions of environmental advocates and justice-oriented individuals. The folks I was addressing were the builders of our future. They are the ones engaged in weatherization and retrofitting homes.

Being invited to speak at this conference, their attendance was nearly mandatory as part of their continuing education requirements. Thus, it wasn’t necessarily a crowd of individuals eager to hear from Shalanda Baker. I was mindful of the complex political dynamics in Wisconsin. It’s a blend of perspectives. I contemplated how to narrate my experiences while also weaving a story that would resonate with everyone present.

To summarize, the keynote was a success. I was genuinely touched by the audience’s enthusiastic response, and afterward, several people approached me thanking me for my comments. One gentleman, in particular, said, “I’m attempting to organize my community. I want to remain engaged. Who’s taking the lead?” He looked at me and asked, “Do you know anyone leading in Wisconsin?”

I replied, “I believe it’s you. You are the one.” He responded, “Man, yeah, I think you’re correct.” But the reality is we all need to step up as leaders. You can glance to your left and your right. We’re all in this together, and no one is going to come to our rescue. This realization may be daunting for some, but if we choose to hunker down and think, “I’ll just wait for this to pass,” we are setting ourselves up for failure. Therefore, everyone has a role as a leader. It’s vital to demonstrate courage within one’s own sphere.

The second aspect is to embrace joy because this work can be overwhelming. I exited the administration, and Dr. Reames advised, “Shalanda, don’t crawl out. I want you to walk out.” I was nearly at the point of crawling. The endeavor is taxing on a soulful level, but it was the people who assisted me in persevering, not only my team but also community members who welcomed me, prayed for me, and offered their comfort.

And within that, there was joy. I believe we must identify and savor those joyful moments. What is the significance of the arts during this climate crisis? What is the role of creativity? What place is there for gathering, sharing meals, and supporting one another? And what about sharing tears together and discovering solace within our communities? We must stay united and cultivate joy. That may, in fact, surpass the importance of leadership. It is a fundamental piece of advice, and it’s what I am actively seeking here in Michigan as well.

Matt Davenport: That’s incredible. Thank you immensely for your time. It was a pleasure engaging with you today.

Shalanda Baker: Yes, it has been wonderful to be here. I truly appreciate it.

Matt Davenport: We are grateful for your attention to this episode of Michigan Minds, produced by Michigan News, a division of the university’s Office of the Vice President for Communications.