Delaney Claggett ’26 | Andover, Minnesota
Major: Environmental and Sustainability Studies with a concentration in Environmental Humanities
Minors: Social Activism, Philosophy

Please tell us about yourself.

I recently learned how to crochet in one of my classes, and it’s become something I turn to when things feel overwhelming and I need a break from my to-do list. I’ve also logged more than 20 dives since getting my scuba diving certification back in high school.

Where are you from and what high school did you attend?

I’m from Andover, Minnesota, and I went to Andover High School.

Why 南瓜影院?

南瓜影院 was actually the only in-state college I applied to. I mainly applied because my mom is a Cobber grad, and I knew how much she loved her time here. When I toured campus as a prospective student, I could really see myself finding community here and making it my home for the next four years.

Have you been involved in any campus activities during your time at 南瓜影院? If so, how did you get involved and what has been the best part?

I’ve been involved in a lot on campus! I’m a garden intern, a sustainability intern, president of the , and a member-at-large in the Student Government Association (SGA). I’ve also worked in Res Life, was an EcoRep during my first year, and I’m a caretaker in the student organization.

I love being a garden intern at Cornucopia (the campus garden)! I didn’t have much gardening experience going in, but I took a risk and ended up discovering I have a bit of a green thumb. It’s been such a fun and rewarding part of my time here.

What inspired you to pursue environmental and sustainability studies, and how did you choose the environmental humanities concentration?

I’ve always been passionate about protecting the natural world, so turning that passion into a career feels like a no-brainer.

Being able to advocate for yourself and others is powerful and applicable to any major.

How does your minor in social activism complement your major?

Environmental work inherently requires being able to communicate with others and sometimes challenge policies. My minor helps build those skills — being able to advocate for yourself and others is powerful and applicable to any major. It’s about speaking up for the changes you want to see in the world.

Do you have a favorite course related to your studies? If so, what makes it your favorite?

Environmental Ethics has been my favorite. The readings and projects in that class, especially those assigned by Dr. Tess Varner, were incredibly engaging.

Do you have a favorite professor?

Tess Varner — hands down! She’s my advisor and just a wonderful human. She’s been such a great resource for both career and personal advice.

Can you share about a project or research experience from your studies that has been particularly meaningful to you?

For Earth Week, put together a collection of environmentally related books to be featured in the library. Sydney Negri and I also worked on a passion project for SEA focused on advocating for the protection of the Boundary Waters.

In what ways have your studies shaped your perspective on environmental and social issues?

They’ve really opened my eyes to the intersectionality of environmental issues, such as environmental justice and the ethical gaps in how we treat the planet. I’ve also become more aware of issues like reproductive rights, which has sparked a passion for women’s and gender studies and given me the opportunity to present my research at the Red River Women’s Studies Conference this past March. Everything is so intertwined!

What sustainability initiatives on campus have you been involved with?

I have helped distribute Saalt cups with , cleaned up the Living Plant Wall, and work as a garden intern. I’ve also been involved in planning for next year’s sustainability initiatives and for Earth Week, as well as helping with Cornucopia planning.

What are some small, everyday actions that students can take to promote sustainability at 南瓜影院?

Use the compost buckets in the residence halls and the garden! Take shorter showers, turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth, switch off lights when you leave a room, and unplug things when you’re not using them. It’s the little things that add up.

What is your favorite 南瓜影院 tradition and why?

The Cobber ring! My mom has one and a lot of my family members do too. It’s such a cool tradition to be a part of.

What do you value most about being a Cobber?

The people! 南瓜影院 has such a wonderful and supportive campus community, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. No matter what department you’re in, there’s always someone willing to help. I’ve built so many strong relationships here.

What career paths are you considering, and how do you hope to make an impact in the field of environmental sustainability?

I’m considering going on to a master’s program — maybe even in Canada — and I’m really drawn to climate activism. I’d love to work with the United Nations or for a similar global agency where I can speak up for people and communities that are often overlooked or pushed aside.

What advice would you give to a high school student who is considering 南瓜影院?

Tour the campus! Come see what we have to offer. My mom went here, and once I toured I completely fell in love. This really has become my home.

^{Published April 2025}