Bridging Academia and Action with Iris Stewart-Frey, Professor of Hydrology and Water Resources at Santa Clara University

24/11/2025 22 min

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Episode Synopsis

Today we chatted with Professor Iris Stewart-Frey, a professor of hydrology and water resources at Santa Clara University's Environmental Studies Institute. Iris discusses her multifaceted role encompassing teaching, research, and service to both the university and the larger community. She elaborates on the unique mission and climate of Santa Clara, highlighting its Jesuit values. Iris also delves into her involvement with Santa Clara's Environmental Justice and the Common Good Initiative, a program focused on addressing environmental injustices through research and community action. We discuss water equity issues in Silicon Valley, the importance of translating scientific research into accessible information, and the university's role in promoting environmental justice. Iris advises to think beyond short-term gains and reflects on the significance of fostering meaningful debates and collaboration across boundaries.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:05 Current Work at Santa Clara University00:55 Climate and Culture at Santa Clara University02:40 Environmental Justice and the Common Good Initiative07:07 Water and Climate Justice Research09:42 The Uneven Distribution of Environmental Burdens and Benefits14:23 Balancing Science and Community Engagement16:40 Advice for Climate Policy Makers17:43 The Role of Universities in Environmental Justice19:52 Hope for the Future and Final Thoughts

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