SIUE to Host Annual Symposium on 'Energy-Water-Food Nexus'

The event will bring regional experts, practitioners, and community members together to promote awareness on the critical topics of energy, water, and food.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:25pm

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A highly structured abstract painting in muted earth tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, visually representing the complex interdependencies between energy, water, and food resources.An abstract illustration capturing the interwoven nature of energy, water, and food systems, the focus of SIUE's annual sustainability symposium.Edwardsville Today

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is hosting its annual symposium focused on the 'Energy-Water-Food Nexus' on April 22, 2026. The event, organized by the Climate and Sustainability Advisory Board (CASAB) and Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC), will feature presentations from experts in the fields of energy, water, and sustainability.

Why it matters

The symposium aims to raise awareness about the interconnected nature of energy, water, and food systems, which are critical for the well-being of communities and the environment. By bringing together regional experts and the public, the event seeks to promote sustainable practices and solutions to address these interdependent challenges.

The details

The symposium will take place from 1-4 p.m. at the Center for Spirituality and Sustainability, Fuller Dome, on the SIUE campus. It will begin with opening remarks from Jennifer Zuercher, PhD, RD, LDN, Associate Professor and Program Director for the Nutrition & Dietetics program at SIUE and chair of CASAB, and Benjamin Lowder, director of SIUE Fuller Dome. The event will feature presentations from experts in the fields of energy, water, and sustainability, followed by a question-and-answer session and a networking reception.

  • The symposium will be held on April 22, 2026 from 1-4 p.m.

The players

Jennifer Zuercher

Associate Professor and Program Director for the Nutrition & Dietetics program at SIUE, and chair of the Climate and Sustainability Advisory Board (CASAB).

Benjamin Lowder

Director of the SIUE Fuller Dome.

Ricky Lallish

Director of the Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC) and CASAB board member.

Serdar Celik

Professor in the School of Engineering (SOE) Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, CASAB board member, and the founder of the SIUE Energy Symposium series.

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What they’re saying

“Water-Energy-Food, is there a more critical part of our everyday needs? Where would we be as a civilization without these basic needs?”

— Ricky Lallish, Director of Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC) and CASAB board member

“This symposium series started in 2017 and became a signature event in the region, organized by SIUE. So far, we had eight of these events in the U.S. and two symposia in Turkey. I am honored to see how much the event grew over the years. This is a success of all contributors including faculty, students, and administration.”

— Serdar Celik, Professor in the School of Engineering (SOE) Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering, CASAB board member, and the founder of the SIUE Energy Symposium series

“The committee works diligently throughout the year to coordinate an engaging event. This year's event features speakers from SIU and the Metro East region. From PFAS in the water supply to the work being done at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture, Nutrition Innovation Center, this event is for everyone interested in supporting a healthy planet and population.”

— Jennifer Zuercher, Associate Professor and Program Director for the Nutrition & Dietetics program at SIUE and chair of CASAB

What’s next

The symposium is open to the public and free of charge. For more information, interested individuals can contact Dr. Zuercher or Dr. Celik.

The takeaway

This annual symposium organized by SIUE highlights the critical interconnections between energy, water, and food systems, and brings together regional experts and the community to promote sustainable solutions and raise awareness about these interdependent challenges.