Work to support our environment and natural resources is powered by people.
This May, we’re celebrating SENR students, researchers, and programs making a difference across Ohio and beyond.
First up: Our Students
Everyday SENR students are making an impact. From creating container gardens on campus to delivering environmental education at the Wetlands, they are initiating projects to better connect students to each other and science.
Engaging the community around art and nature
Will Davis, a 3rd year Environment, Economy, Development and Sustainability (EEDS) major and communications assistant in the School of Environment (SENR), is always looking for ways to engage the community. Not only has Will created and displayed posters to highlight opportunities for students to become aware and involved in clubs and organizations at Ohio State, but Will also initiated the first ever Nature Art Contest in 2026 – open to all students, faculty and staff at The Ohio State University. With 42 strong submissions, the award-winning art was displayed at the 2026 Environmental Professionals Network (EPN) Earth Day celebration with more than 300 in attendance. The theme for the contest was “Home” and submissions could include 2-dimensional art forms, including but not limited to photography, painting, textile, crocheting, and more. The top ten art pieces were selected by an anonymous vote that was open to all students, faculty, and staff.
Tula Moore’s art piece “I Think I Could do This Forever” along with 9 others were displayed at EPN’s Signature Earth Day Event.
Let’s hear what inspired the art contest.
SENR: What inspired the idea, and what was exciting about developing and hosting the contest?
Will: As part of my communications job with SENR, I am always looking for ways to engage the community. A lot of my own art is centered around nature, which gave me the idea of creating a nature-based art contest. I also feel like art isn't something often promoted to the environmental community at OSU, and I thought an art contest would be a great way for students, faculty, and staff to get in touch with their artistic side. It was exciting and inspiring to see everyone's beautiful art, and it felt great to give them a way to share it. It was also exciting to see people participating in the voting process, giving them another way to engage with the contest.
Duane and Will in front of art displayed at the Environmental Professionals Network (EPN) Earth Day celebration.
SENR: What drew you to the theme Home?
Will: My supervisor, Duane, and I were brainstorming some themes, and one of the themes we came up with was "Home." We wanted a theme that centered around positivity and connection with nature, and the theme of "Home" resonated with a lot of people I asked for input.
More about Will: Not only does Will work alongside SENR as a communications assistant, but Will also serves as the secretary and president-elect of Ohio State's chapter of Sierra Club (Sierra Student Coalition) and does photography and other visual arts on the side.
More Celebrations
Celebrating Students: Bringing the SENR Student Research Symposium to life