BELL II

Invasive species.  Habitat loss.  Global warming.  Communities around the world face myriad environmental issues that threaten our cultures, our livelihoods, and even our lives.  BELL II focuses on the science behind the issues, and helps students develop the leadership skills they need to translate their scientific knowledge into environmental action. 

Narragansett Bay, a 147 square mile estuary, and Brown’s Haffenreffer estate, a 372 acre historic farm property, provide an ideal setting for in-depth environmental science learning.  Narragansett Bay is one of the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on earth, home to hundreds of different species. Its watershed, that is, the larger area of land that drains into the Bay, is one of the most densely populated watersheds in the country.  This makes Narragansett Bay extremely vulnerable to human impact, and provides an excellent classroom for studying the complex interactions between people and their environment. 

True to the experiential nature of BELL, students work actively in the field, conducting experiments and making observations focused on evaluating the health of different Narragansett Bay ecosystems.   This includes kayaking down one of the tidal rivers that feeds the bay, and hearing first-hand accounts of the latest environmental science research from Brown faculty and staff.  Leadership activities focus on the skills needed to use science to influence environmental policy, including navigating different leadership styles, effective group work and public speaking.  As a capstone, students develop action plans that apply their learning to pressing environmental issues in their home communities. 

Students leave BELL II with a clear understanding of the scientific method and the leadership skills necessary to use their findings to effect change.  These skills are applicable in the field, in school, and in the world of work beyond.   

Who are BELL II students?

BELL II students are interested in the environment, adventurous, and want to take active leadership roles as they challenge themselves both physically and intellectually. They are often interested in environmental science and policy, biology, chemistry or geology. We look for students with a diversity of experiences, emotional maturity and a track record of interest in collaborative activities.