In October, this year’s Isdell Global Leaders (IGLs) traveled to North Carolina for the first of two study tours focused on the 2025-2026 Isdell Center for Global Leadership theme: Climate. The IGLs—senior Dylan Stapleton and juniors Katherine Bryson, Jess Washburn and Will Whipple—have committed to a yearlong study of climate, which includes coursework, research and travel. From the Research Triangle to the coast, the cohort learned about efforts in climate research and innovation, meeting with experts in fields from salamander ecophysiology to dendrochronology.

The IGLs shared their experience and findings during an Upper School assembly. “From wading through the marsh to searching for wild salamanders, we had various immersive experiences that helped us appreciate the steps being taken to better understand climate and the environment around us,” the IGLs said. “Witnessing the research and hard work to combat climate change, from the dedicated efforts of scientists to the sustainability and resilience programs of government agencies, we learned how to help our planet respond to the growing problem of climate change.”

The cohort followed up their Pace presentation by participating in the Student Action Summit on Civic Engagement, which took place at The Lovett School on Nov. 15. The student-led conference invited participants to explore how they can make meaningful contributions to their communities and the wider world, bringing together students from the Northeast and Southeast. The IGLs were one of six groups to present their research. “Our students did a great job listening, sharing ideas and getting inspired by others’ work,” says ICGL Associate Director Tatum Branaman.

“We hope the experiences we brought back and shared will remind people of the wonder of nature and our shared responsibility to defend it,” the IGLs said. This spring, the cohort will continue their climate study in Ecuador.