Laird Christensen

Dr. Laird Christensen is a Professor and Chair of the Sustainable Development Department at Appalachian State University's College of Fine and Applied Arts. He earned his PhD from the University of Oregon and has pioneered experiential, place-based education through interdisciplinary field courses. His leadership includes founding graduate sustainability programs at multiple institutions.

Education

• PhD, University of Oregon

Research Focus

Christensen's transdisciplinary work bridges environmental studies, creative writing, and community engagement. Key research domains include:

• Ecocritical analysis of human-nature relationships
• Watershed restoration frameworks
• Pedagogical innovation in sustainability education
• Refugee resettlement dialogue facilitation
• Bioregional identity formation

Academic Leadership

• Founding Director of MS in Environmental Studies & Resilient/Sustainable Communities at Green Mountain College
• Director of MS in Environmental Studies & Sustainability at Prescott College

He currently advances Appalachian State's student-first experiential learning model to address global challenges through community partnerships.