Engaging in a “Green” Discussion
New summer graduate course explores environmental and energy issues on Long Island

Brookville, N.Y. – From beach erosion to overdevelopment, from finding renewable energy sources to the recent rejection of Broadwater, the quality of life on Long Island hinges on our ability to resolve some very complex energy and environmental issues.

Graduate students at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University will have the opportunity to engage in discussion with community and industry leaders in a new master's level course that focuses on the significant energy and environmental concerns facing Long Island and the world. Taught by Matthew Cordaro, Ph.D., professor in the College of Management, “Critical Issues in the Public and Private Sector” will examine the different facets of the energy industry and the environment and will open a dialogue between students and decision-makers.

“Energy and the environment are probably the highest profile issues today,” Dr. Cordaro said. “The cost of energy, which includes the high cost of oil, affects both the economy and the environment of the region.”

Each session will feature a prominent guest lecturer and will cover topics that range from oil use on Long Island to the legal ramifications of certain environmental actions. Speakers include Thomas DeJesu, vice president of government relations, Long Island Power Authority; Dorian Dale, energy director, Town of Babylon; Douglas Hill, Ph.., energy consultant, author of 1991 Long Island Energy Plan developed by the Long Island Regional Planning Board; Kevin Rooney, CEO of the Oil/Heat Institute of Long Island and former White House staffer; Robert Teetz, director of environmental management for National Grid; Irving Like, renowned environmental attorney; Lisa Tyson, director, Long Island Progressive Coalition; and Gordian Raacke, executive director, Renewable Energy Long Island.

“These are people who are quoted in the newspaper every day,” Dr. Cordaro said. “They'll be providing insights on what they do, how they do it and what really motivates them. Given recent decisions, such as the rejection of Broadwater, energy and environmental issues on Long Island need to be dealt with more urgently. Alternatives need to be developed and explored.”

The senior graduate-level elective is part of the Master of Public Administration program in School of Public Service in the College of Management, but is open to students in the Environmental Science program and members of the C.W. Post faculty and administration. It begins May 20, 2008 and meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings through June 19. Members of the public are invited to attend all individual sessions except for May 20 and June 19 by making a reservation.

“We are going to investigate different areas, including some controversial opinions,” Dr. Cordaro said. “Students will be challenged to do their own research, ask questions and explore the issues objectively from all angles.”

During Dr. Cordaro's 40-year career, he has served as a senior executive and CEO in the utility industry and has also been an educator while pursuing energy research and policy development.

For more information and to make a reservation for specific sessions, contact Dr. Cordaro at matthew.cordaro@liu.edu .

Posted: May 7, 2008