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In 2012, we established the annual Richard L. James Lecture in memory of founding executive director Dick James.

“Dick was the charismatic educator, writer, and radio personality that led the organization from 1965 until his retirement in 1996,” according to Executive Director Mike Weilbacher. “He pioneered so many initiatives, like offering the first environmental education workshop for teachers in Philadelphia. This annual lecture is intended to keep that innovative spirit alive by noting the next new thing we do in the community.”

The James lecture brings leading environmental voices to the Center to discuss cutting-edge environmental issues.

Past Lecture Subjects/Guests:

2022 - The American Chestnut: Restoring the "Perfect Tree"
Sara Fern Fitzsimmons

2021 - Braiding Phragmites
Yaroub Al-Obaidi and Sarah Kavage

2020 - Roxborough Green: Preserving Open Space
James Harry Calamia, Kay Sykora, Celeste Hardester, Matt Wysong

2019 - Environmental Justice in Pennsylvania: A New Vision
Allison Acevedo

2018 - Water: Peril and Promise
José Almiñana, David Arscott, Debra McCarty, Jame McCray, Aaliyah Green Ross, Maurice Sampson

2017 - The Circuit: The History and Future of America’s Best Regional Trail System
Bob Thomas

2016 - A Climate-Ready City
Sarah Wu, Saleem Chapman, Raluca Ellis, David Masur, Pouné Saberi

2015 - Environmental Art for a Changing Planet
Mary Mattingly

2014 - Nature Prescription
Michael Suk, MD JD MPH FACS

2013 - Go Outside & Play! Restoring the Nature of Childhood
Kenneth Finch

2012 - Bringing Nature Home
Doug Tallamy, PhD