"We hear more and more in the media about what many in the environmental movement claim to be impending ecological disaster. Whether the issue is famine, global warming, desertification, water pollution, poverty or the absence of social justice, the question is the same: How can we live sustainably?
"Answering that question is what we do at PCGS and our message is very simple. There is a way. Solutions do exist; and they are exciting, inspiring, innovative and imaginative. They are the future." These words were the opening of the powerful speech delivered Nov. 3 by Dr. Kiran C. Patel, who with his wife, Pallavi, founded PCGS and accepted the Global Sustainability Award for Decades of Service to Humanity at the 10th Year Anniversary dinner that night.
A Decade of Sustainable Futures: USF Patel College’s 10th Anniversary Celebrates Legacy and Innovation
The University of South Florida’s Patel College of Global Sustainability (PCGS) commemorated a decade of pioneering sustainable solutions with a three-day 10th year anniversary celebration filled with inspiration, collaboration, and recognition of the need for global impact. The event centered on a Nov. 3 sustainability conference that was a true reflection of PCGS’s decade-long journey in shaping leaders for a sustainable tomorrow.
Alumni and students took center stage with keynotes that were not only insightful but also a testament to the transformative education they received at PCGS. They spoke with passion about their roles in confronting sustainability challenges, echoing the innovative spirit instilled by the college. Dr. Kiran Patel, whose vision catalyzed the creation of PCGS, noted, “To change something, build a model that makes the existing model obsolete.” These words resonated as alumni panelists illustrated their work, embodying the change that Dr. Patel envisioned.
"To change something, build a model that makes the existing model obsolete." --Dr. Kiran C. Patel
The awards dinner was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of shared values and a collective vision for a better future. Honoring the contributions of the Patels, oceanographer/explorer Sylvia Earle, and other pivotal partners, the evening was filled with gratitude. Dr. Patel’s words, “We connect people with real-life sustainable solutions,” highlighted the collaborative motto that has been a cornerstone of the college’s approach to sustainability
The Patels, both distinguished medical professionals with an acute understanding of global health and sustainability issues, have been the driving force behind the college’s success. Dr. Kiran Patel’s perspective on healthcare management and sustainability has paved the way for PCGS.
As PCGS celebrates this milestone, Dr. Patel said, the college is not just looking back at its achievements but also forward to a future where it continues to lead by example. Dr. Patel’s hope is that PCGS "will continue to establish a reputation for producing pioneers in sustainability innovation.”