Learning in the Everglades

Students learning in the Florida Everglades National Park.

The Ecology of Unique Environments is led annually by instructor Sandy Geffner, EdM ’81. The group spent a week camping and exploring the park, learning about the more than 200 plant and animal species that call it home.

Photo by Meredith Forrest Kulwicki

There are no desks, chairs, whiteboards—or even a lecture hall in this case—for the EVS 493 winter session course held in January. Instead, the Florida Everglades National Park served as a living-learning environment over the weeklong excursion for a group of nine students.

The Ecology of Unique Environments is led annually by instructor Sandy Geffner, EdM ’81. The group spent a week camping and exploring the park, learning about the more than 200 plant and animal species that call it home. Days—and nights—also included swamp walking, snorkeling and canoeing. For many, it was an “otherworldly” experience.

Winter session classes provide unique opportunities for students to get ahead or stay on track with their studies or pursue a special interest. For these students, it offered an opportunity to push themselves out of their comfort zones and learn about a completely different world that was described as a memorable—and even surreal—experience.

More UB Moments

  • Showcasing the Roots of Culture
    6/2/25
    Nearly 300 students participated in the 43rd annual International Fiesta—the largest cultural event of the year. The celebration reflected on the theme of “Roots,” with many performers highlighting traditional dances to tell stories pulled from their cultural histories. The event is organized by students from the Student Association, specifically the International Council. 
  • Learning in the Everglades
    6/2/25
    There are no desks, chairs, whiteboards—or even a lecture hall in this case—for the EVS 493 winter session course held in January. Instead, the Florida Everglades National Park served as a living-learning environment over the weeklong excursion for a group of nine students.
  • Champions!
    6/2/25
    The UB women’s basketball team capped off a historic season by winning the WNIT championship in front of a record crowd of 5,650 in Alumni Arena. With a thrilling fourth-quarter rally, the Bulls defeated Troy, 88–84, earning their 30th win of the season—a new program record.
  • Three Generations. One UB Legacy.
    6/2/25
    Entrepreneurship runs deep in the Mullens family. For three generations, these proud UB alumni have built businesses—and a legacy: Delbert Mullens, EdM ’74; his son, Dorian Mullens, MBA ’99; and his grandson Matthew Mullens, MBA ’25, who is Dorian’s nephew.
  • Gather, study and eat in comfort
    6/2/25
    Following a yearlong project, the first major renovation to the Student Union in more than 30 years was unveiled in January. The space presents a warmer “living room” feel, with a variety of new seating for students to meet, eat or study; and better access between the second and third floors with the addition of a new, open staircase.