UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Paul Nicklen, the award-winning nature photographer and conservationist, will be the keynote speaker for Penn State’s Climate Solutions Symposium. His presentation is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center.
Nicklen, a Canadian photographer, filmmaker, and marine biologist, has dedicated his career to using powerful imagery to advocate for nature conservancy and combat climate change. While his work captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world, particularly the underwater realm, his focus extends beyond aesthetics. Nicklen's photos and films aim to show the environmental threats facing our planet, urging viewers to act. Nicklen's impactful images have earned him over 30 top awards in both conservation and photography, including the BBC’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year and the World Press Photo for Photojournalism.
This passion for environmental advocacy led Nicklen to co-found SeaLegacy in 2014. This non-profit organization utilizes storytelling centered around the ocean to inspire hope and change for the planet. According to Nicklen’s website, “SeaLegacy inspires millions to stand up and have a voice for the pristine places threatened by the climate crisis.”
Erica Smithwick, distinguished professor of geography and director of the Penn State Climate Consortium said Nicklen is a powerful presenter who will bring the need for climate solutions further into focus for attendees.
“I recently watched Paul Nicklen's episode of National Geographic's ‘Photographer’ series,” said Smithwick. “His passion and deep love for nature were truly captivating. It wasn't just the awe-inspiring visuals of the natural world, but the raw emotion he conveyed in his mission to protect its beauty and fight against environmental threats.”
Smithwick added that Nicklen's approach of pairing his artistic talent with conservation efforts is truly inspiring.
“I believe his unique perspective will be a powerful asset to the symposium,” she said. “He has the potential to not only raise awareness about climate change, but also ignite a sense of urgency and hope. Imagine the impact if we, as a community dedicated to solutions, can harness the passion Nicklen ignites to drive real action on climate change solutions.”
Registration for the symposium is free but required. Seating is limited and registration is filling up quickly.