Gus Speth ’64: On the Eve of Success:

An Octogenarian Views the World

May 6, 2023

Classmates:

On June 26 at 4:00pm Eastern time, our Class Authors series of Zoom meetings will feature Gus Speth ’64 discussing a selected compilation of Gus’s poems, published as a PDF on our class website. Download it here.  Gus will also reflect on his transition from writing learned books to writing poetry and essays to better influence public opinion.  Bill Woodfin ’64 will moderate the session.  Details below.

Gus is a well-known classmate and esteemed environmentalist who has written many well-received books over the years.  Over the last decade his writing has shifted to essays (some are reprinted on our Class News website) and to poetry, which he feels better reflects his thoughts. Gus served in the administration of Jimmy Carter and in the United Nations, before becoming dean of the Yale School of the Environment and subsequently a professor at the University of Vermont.  He also co-founded the Natural Resources Defense Council and was founder of the World Resources Institute.

Gus’s poetry still embraces environmental and climate issues, but also includes reflections on aging and humorous observations of life at large. Gus and Bill will discuss his poems, and also explore his decision to adopt poetry as a means to convey his messages.  We will focus on selected poems that are published on our website for you to download.

The session will spend roughly a third of the time discussing Gus’s poetry, a third discussing Gus’s approach and his transition to poetry, and a third answering your questions.  While not required, please download and read the PDF of his poems and be prepared to ask questions through the chat box. 

Registration is required.  All spouses or partners are welcome to attend with or without classmates. You will receive an immediate confirmation email with a link to update your calendar and also a link to the meeting. That link will be unique to you. On the morning of the event you will receive the meeting link again.

Register for the June 26 meeting by clicking here

Bill Woodfin will moderate the 90-minute session, as he has been involved with climate change and environmental issues including working with Tony Lee’s educational outreach initiatives. 

Join Gus Speth, Bill Woodfin, and me on June 26 for this important session.  Don't forget to mark your calendars and register!

Cheers,