In the fall, the C.T. Bauer College of Business will launch the energy and sustainability minor. The  program was the main discussion for attendees and lecturers at the Distinguished Leaders series Tuesday at Cemo Hall.

Joseph Pratt and Greg W. Hopper, during the C.T. Bauer College of Business Distinguished Leaders Series on Tuesday, explained how shale affects
sustainability. | Aisha Bouderdaben/The Daily Cougar

Greg W. Hopper, the director of Black and Veatch Management Consulting, joined Bauer professor Joseph Pratt, one of the new minor’s faculty members, at the lecture series. They discussed shale’s impact on the economy, environment and security — a mere teaser to what the program will bring to participants.

“We want to bring industry into our classroom to stay engaged in the business community,” said Bauer Dean Latha Ramchand, “and better prepare students (for) when they graduate.”

This is first of the many leadership series to come on different subjects relating to the field of energy.

The interdisciplinary minor, which is not limited to business students, has a blend of classes with professors from across campus. Technology, architecture, political science and natural science professors make up the faculty to ensure a well-rounded educational experience.

“(Pratt) brings students and faculty from different parts on campus together,” Ramchand said.

Interested students do not have to declare the minor to take the introductory course. The minor will educate students on the basics of the energy sources, fossil fuels and the future of energy.

Both speakers at the lecture said they value the importance of not only this minor but minors in general.

“You gotta know what your plan B is,” Hopper said.

Not only can it help you fulfill a passion, but also make you seem much more diverse to employers, Pratt said.

“Having a minor allows students a good understanding of broad themes,” Pratt said.

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