Appalachia
ENERGY IMMERSION
APPALACHIA ENERGY IMMERSION: March 18th-28th, 2026
Energy Transition and Just Futures in Appalachia
The Appalachia Energy Immersion Trip is an experiential learning program bringing students to West Virginia and Washington, D.C., to understand the complex legacies of energy resource extraction and explore pathways toward a just transition. Appalachia has long been a key energy-producing region whose industries including coal and, more recently, natural gas have shaped both the regional landscape and economy as well as national energy policies. Students will meet with partners working across diverse sectors–energy producers, community organizations, political leaders, and more–to learn about how diverse stakeholders are working toward alternative solutions to help move Appalachia forward, such as outdoor recreation, hydrogen, renewable energies, and community development.
The coal industry has been integral in shaping the region’s cultural identity, so how might a region adapt and change when this industry is diminishing? What is the future of energy in Appalachia, and how can we reach this future in an equitable way that does not repeat the mistakes of past extractive industries? And what is our role in the energy system as consumers of energy, and how can we contribute to a just transition? These questions will drive our Appalachian experience.
Check the Appalachia immersion trip blog and our immersion trip video to learn more!
WHEN: Spring Break 2026, March 18th-28th
WHERE: Various locations in West Virginia and Washington, D.C.
HOW TO APPLY: Applications are due Sunday, November 30th by 11:59 pm.
INFO SESSION
Meet staff, ask questions, and learn more about our Energy Immersion Trip to Appalachia.
Fri, Nov. 14th 1:30-2:30
Irving 180 (Susty Office)
APPLY TO BE A TRIP LEADER:
We are currently seeking applications for student trip leaders! Applications are due December 1st by 11:59pm. If you would like to apply to be a trip leader, you can apply with our leader application form- if you are not selected as a leader, your application will be considered in the pool of trip attendees.
We are seeking leaders from diverse backgrounds and with a range of extracurricular and academic interests who are currently undergraduates at Dartmouth. Previous involvement with sustainability, energy energy systems, earth sciences, health, or environmental justice work is not required. Ideal leaders will:
* Be willing, ready, and excited to learn about energy systems and energy transition in Appalachia from multiple perspectives and through various social, economic, and political lenses
* Be flexible, willing to go with the flow, and able to consider and advocate for your own needs and the needs of the group
* Be emotionally present and open-minded to hearing different points of view and having dialogue across difference
* Be very responsible with decision making and create an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for trip participants
STAFF CONTACTS
Rachel Kent | Program Assistant | Dartmouth Sustainability Office
Erin Kelly | Program Coordinator | Dartmouth Sustainability Office
Laura Braasch | Assistant Director | Dartmouth Sustainability Office