Episode 51: Creating a climate action plan that works

L-R: Serafin Fernandez, Jonathan Eldridge

Community colleges are emerging as powerful climate leaders, and this episode explores how institutions at different stages are turning vision into action. Host Dave Karlsgodt talks with leaders from Gavilan College and College of Marin about how financial stewardship, campus modernization, and sustainability planning are shaping resilient, future-ready campuses.  

From bond-funded infrastructure upgrades and on-the-ground implementation to the collaborative process of developing a Climate Action Plan, the conversation highlights practical lessons, shared challenges, and opportunities for regional leadership. Get an insider’s look at how community colleges are advancing climate action in ways that directly benefit students and the communities they serve. 

Guests:
Jonathan Eldridge
Superintendent/President
College of Marin
LinkedIn

Serafin Fernandez
Director, Capital Projects
Gavilan College
LinkedIn

Host:
Dave Karlsgodt
Vice President, Infrastructure, Energy & Sustainability
Brailsford & Dunlavey

Production Team:
Executive producer and host: Dave Karlsgodt
Producer, sound editor: Kristan Crawford
Producers: Karmela Lejarde, Allison Bruns

Music courtesy of the Gio Washington-Wright Big Band

Episode Transcript:

The following is an AI-generated transcript of this episode and may contain errors or omissions: Transcript