illustration by Ellen Litwiller
Honoring a tradition
2024 marks 20 years since the very first meeting of the Gary Comer Abrupt Climate Change Fellowship. The annual Comer Climate Conference has become an opportunity for Comer Fellows and guests to convene for presentations, collaboration, and discussion. Scientists shared findings from field work ranging from Greenland to Antarctica, across the U.S. and around the globe. They were joined by environmental journalism students from Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, and Teens Take On Climate Zoomed in from Chicago's South Side.
Learn more about the history of the Comer Climate Conference and our environment work.
The Power of Storytelling
As conference hosts, we believe in scientists and their crucial work to understand earth's climate. Creative ways of sharing science proved an underlying theme of this year's meeting. We recognize that it is vital to communicate the science as clearly as possible to as many as possible to help foster clarity and build the momentum imperative to confronting the climate crisis.
Each year, Comer Family Foundation partners with writers, photographers, and illustrators to feature stories that explore issues, and communicate the impact of our grantees' work. Photographer Jasmin Shah specializes in documentary, travel and portrait work around the globe. Illustrator Ellen Litwiller uses visual storytelling to expand scientific understanding.
We'd love to help tell your story. Get in touch!
Searching for clues on the Irish Coast Professor and Comer Fellow Dr. Gordon Bromley explores the physical impact of abrupt climate change on this part of the world and trying to understand how these tumultuous events are linked to global warming. Photo © Jasmin Shah, 2024.
Pancakes and time machines: Richard Alley charts abrupt climate change science one story at a time. Among glaciologist Richard’s many gifts is his ability to tell relatable stories and analogies about the scientific questions he has studied for over 30 years. Learn more about Richard's life and scientific career.
Conference Highlights
