PHILADELPHIA -- University of Pennsylvania President Amy Gutmann will moderate a panel of scholars from across the University as they discuss a sustainable environment as part of Penn’s annual Founder’s Day Symposium, 3-5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16.

Gutmann was the first Ivy League president to sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, pledging that Penn will significantly reduce emissions that contribute to global warming.

The panel discussion, “Seeking Sustainability: Penn Confronts the Local and Global Challenge,” will be held at the School of Nursing’s Claire M. Fagin Hall, 418 Curie Blvd. A reception will follow.

Sherrill L. Adams, professor of biochemistry in the School of Dental Medicine and chair of the Faculty Senate, will present opening remarks.

Joining Gutmann on the panel will be:
• Gary Bernstein, professor of astronomy and astrophysics, School of Arts and Sciences.
• Eugenie L. Birch, professor and chair of city and regional planning, School of Design.
• William W. Braham, associate professor of architecture, School of Design.
• Robert Giegengack, professor of earth and environmental science, School of Arts and Sciences.
• Eric W. Orts, professor of legal studies and business ethics and of management, Wharton School.

The symposium is held each year by the Faculty Senate to celebrate the birth of Penn founder Benjamin Franklin. Its co-sponsor this year is Penn’s Initiative for Global Environmental Leadership. IGEL, led by Penn’s Wharton School, is comprised of Penn environmental and policy experts who, with their counterparts from the business world, address environmental issues facing businesses today.

Additional information is available by calling 215-898-6943 or at www.upenn.edu/faculty_senate/announcements.