Involvement in the RCE will be primarily through Fellowships. The RCE plans to award fellowships to 2 students each year. Details on how to apply for such fellowships will be determined as the RCE grows.
RCE Detroit Windsor is building a framework for student, community, and stakeholder involvement that builds upon programs established at both institutions to most efficiently tackle the RCE’s goals such as:
Education: RCE Detroit-Windsor aims to foster cross-border educational initiatives by tapping into the strengths of institutions on both sides. Wayne State University (WSU) offers Urban Studies and Urban Sustainability programs, while the University of Windsor excels with its Indigenous Peoples Scholars Program and Indigenous Law focus. There’s potential for cross-border course availability, joint degree programs, and other collaborative educational offerings, such as a joint Masters in Urban Planning/JD.
Virtual Exchange Programs: WSU is already hosting virtual exchanges that involve project-based learning with a global network, connecting students from different institutions to address real-world challenges. The WSU/UW RCE framework is an ideal platform for such programs, given the geographical closeness yet distinctive political, social, and economic systems of the U.S. and Canada. This setting promises enriched cultural exchange and learning experiences for students.
Community Partnership Initiatives: WSU is working with Detroit Public Schools (DPS) and nonprofits on various community-based projects, including a Girls in Science Day, recycling programs, and a mobile farmer’s market to address food deserts. There’s an emphasis on environmental initiatives, like focusing on the Detroit River and the transportation infrastructure connecting Detroit and Windsor. Collaboration endeavors also extend to issues related to healthy sustainable cities and industrial practices.
Collaborations in Windsor: The University of Windsor has strong collaborations with local community partners, including GLIER and Healthy Headwaters. Through the Transnational Environmental Law Clinic (TELC) and the Cities and Climate Action Forum (CCAF), law students work with organizations like the City of Windsor, the Essex Region Conservation Authority, and others on climate policy development.