Thank you to everyone who attended our 2026 Long Island Youth Climate Summit! We had over 200 students from across Long Island gathered at Stony Brook University to explore climate science, activism, and career pathways in clean energy. The event was recently featured in Stony Brook News, and we couldn’t be more excited to share the highlights.

Hosted by Students for Climate Action and Renewable Energy Long Island, the summit centered on climate optimism—showing students that hope, action, and innovation can lead to meaningful change.

Inspiring Voices & Key Takeaways

“Hope and joy are not naive. They are defiant. We are the ones that are going to get us through this.”
— Heather White, keynote speaker and founder of One Green Thing

Heather White encouraged students to transform eco-anxiety into action and discover their own “service superpower,” highlighting that every individual can influence their family, school, and community.

“Your voice matters. You are already activists.”
— Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment

Esposito reminded students that simply showing up and participating in community and public meetings can create real change—and that activism isn’t just speaking out, it’s engagement in any form.

“Stick to your passions but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Just pursue what you’re passionate about.”
— Sydney LeGuillow, Haugland Group

Career panels highlighted opportunities in clean energy, advocacy, and labor. Experts encouraged students to explore internships, volunteering, and early experiences to build skills for the future.

“There’s a way forward… through education, passion, and motivation. You’re not alone.”
— Melissa Parrott, Executive Director, Renewable Energy Long Island

Summit in Photos

Students connected with clean energy and environmental organizations during the summit.

Keynote speaker Heather White inspires students to turn eco-anxiety into action.

Industry experts, advocates, and educators guide students on careers in climate and clean energy.

We’re incredibly grateful to all the speakers, exhibitors, partners, and volunteers who made this day possible. Events like this show that Long Island’s youth are ready to step up, lead, and make a tangible impact on climate solutions.

Check out the full Stony Brook News feature here to read more about the day that left students energized and empowered!