Members of the Rotary Club of San Francisco witnessed something extraordinary at San Francisco State University's Climate HQ's October fundraiser — students who are already making real impacts on California's climate future.
The event brought together students, faculty, and community partners to celebrate the remarkable work happening at Climate HQ, San Francisco State's hub for climate justice education, research, and action. What makes their approach so powerful is its commitment to equity and excellence. SF State serves the students who become California: first-generation college students, working families, and communities on the frontlines of climate change. Through paid fellowships and internships, Climate HQ ensures these students don't have to choose between fighting climate change and paying rent.
The evening featured presentations from Climate HQ students and alumni who are already making tangible impacts — from managing community engagement programs at Golden Gate National Parks to creating art that shifts public consciousness to shaping climate narratives for thousands of Californians. Each speaker reinforced that when you invest in frontline communities, you get better solutions that work for everyone.
We were honored to have Rotarians Emily Borland, Dan Joraanstad, and Peggy Mathers join us for this uplifting event. The evening also honored John Mathers, who founded the Rotary Climate Action Team and believed deeply that young people are the solution. John passed away in August 2023, but his vision lives on through partnerships like this one. The event also recognized extraordinary partners, including Neda Nobari, who received the Founder's Award for her visionary $2.8 million gift that launched Climate HQ with three instructions: make it transformative, make it interdisciplinary, and ground it in social justice.
Peggy Mathers, Kai Burrus, Dan Joraanstad, and Emily Borland
SF State recently became the first major public university in the United States to require climate justice coursework for all students. This leadership ripples across the 22-campus CSU system, which touches one in three California households.
As the new lead of the Rotary Climate Action Team, I'm excited to strengthen the partnership between our Club and Climate HQ. Our newly formed RCAT Committee includes myself, Bob Hermann, Dan Joraanstad, Peggy Mathers, and Margaret Miley. We are looking for additional voices to join us in this important work. If you would like to join the RCAT Committee, please contact Kai Burrus.
Our first joint action is coming up soon: Join RCAT, SFSU Climate HQ, and Save the Bay for a hands-on shoreline restoration event on Friday, November 14, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Bedwell Bayfront Park in Menlo Park. We'll plant native species, remove invasive plants, and learn about the Bay's vital ecosystem while building camaraderie and making a tangible impact. All tools provided; no experience necessary; and the event runs rain or shine.
If you would like to join the RCAT Committee, please contact Kai Burrus.