Deon Glaser, Uplift’s Senior Vice President of Sustainability, Social Impact, and ESG, was recently invited to guest lecture at the Texas A&M University Department of Landscape Architecture and Planning, igniting a spark of inspiration among budding sustainability leaders. Her lecture shed light on the pivotal role the professions play in shaping the future of our planet amidst increasing polarization.

Deon introduced ESG and the driving forces behind its ascent in business and government, explained the reasons behind the growing pushback, reviewed trends in where it’s headed and why, and explored the role that landscape architects, planners, and developers can play in this increasingly important field. The lecture centered on the topics of climate change, biodiversity, and human rights as key areas for impact across the professions.

Emphasizing the importance of landscape architects and planners in driving sustainability, Deon helped the students and faculty recognize their potential as catalysts for positive change. She highlighted the need for tomorrow’s leaders to understand and work to address today’s challenges in advancing sustainability, and how positioning their impact on climate change, human rights, and biodiversity can drive lasting change for future generations.

"As stewards of our planet, the decisions we make today will have a lasting impact on generations to come," Deon said. "We must embrace our responsibility to create a more just, equitable, and resilient world."

As our society increasingly prioritizes sustainability and ESG considerations, Deon's message resonated deeply with the students, instilling a sense of purpose and responsibility among aspiring sustainability practitioners. Her words served as a rallying cry for action, urging students to use their passion and expertise to drive meaningful progress toward a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future.

In a world where the stakes have never been higher, the guidance and mentorship provided by sustainability leaders like Uplift’s Deon Glaser are invaluable for the next generation. Armed with expertise, dedication, and a commitment to positive change, they hold the power to inspire a brighter tomorrow.

Uplift is proud to support initiatives that empower the next generation of sustainability leaders and applauds Deon for her unwavering dedication to advancing environmental and social responsibility.