The passion to create a more sustainable environment has turned into a social responsibility for the St. Petersburg Net Impact Chapter (SPC). As the first undergraduate Net Impact Chapter in the state of Florida, this veteran Chapter has made a monumental impact in creating a more sustainable environment. From numerous volunteer projects to an ongoing speaker series, SPC has made it their mission to serve, honor and protect the environment. 

Marc Steelman, President of SPC, has led the Chapter in hosting various events in the past year. “Recently, members of SPC engaged in community volunteerism and joined another local non-profit organization for a bay island native planting event. Volunteers planted hundreds of native salt marsh plants on an island in Tampa Bay which experiences high-levels of erosion. These salt marsh plants act as filters for stormwater runoff, they stabilize the shorelines, and they buffer our uplands from storms. The plants also offer foraging and sanctuary for many species of fish and wildlife. The volunteer planting event provided a great opportunity for our Net Impact members to highlight our Chapter’s mission, and build cohesive relationships with other area non-profit organizations [in the community].”

The guest speaker series that SPC hosts serves as an educational resource in learning about environmental issues and provides students with the tools needed to create a more sustainable future. Guest speakers also offer networking opportunities for students who are seeking a career within environmental sciences. Steelman shared, “Our most recent speaker was Rick Gilbert, Vice President of Solar Source. Mr. Gilbert showcased some of his company’s most recent and ambitious solar projects and described what types of employment opportunities and internships his company offers.”

To culminate the efforts of their impact, SPC hosted their annual Earth Day celebration at their schools Clearwater campus. The event agenda included guest speakers from local organizations who shared their sustainability-related projects. This fun-filled event was complete with plant giveaways and sustainably-sourced food. 

SPC has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. Follow the Chapter’s profile page here to see other impact initiatives they have planned this upcoming year!