Dr. Zion Klos, Department Chair and Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Marist College, shared insights into his background, teaching philosophy, and the importance of hands-on learning in an interview published on Apr. 1.
Klos emphasized that outdoor learning experiences help students develop confidence and adaptability beyond traditional classroom settings. “Outdoor learning creates shared experiences that are challenging and deeply rewarding. Students learn they can handle uncertainty, work through obstacles, and reflect on growth. That confidence carries into life after college, when the stakes feel higher and the path might be less clear,” he said.
Reflecting on his upbringing in Wisconsin near Green Bay, Klos explained how a childhood spent outdoors fostered his interest in environmental science. He described formative experiences such as sailing with his family through the Caribbean while being homeschooled and attending a boarding school focused on environmental education.
Klos leads field-based programs both locally in the Hudson Valley—where he recommends exploring Farm Lane—and internationally in places like Iceland, Alaska, and Italy. “These courses help students see how complex environmental systems function in the real world,” he said. He highlighted immersive activities such as sea kayaking along Alaska’s coast or studying river systems in Tuscany to deepen students’ understanding of ecological processes.
Water is central to much of Klos’s research and teaching focus due to its critical role for life amid accelerating climate change: “Water is a unifying element. Without liquid water, life would not exist.” He noted that involving students in community-based projects addressing water challenges offers valuable real-world experience.
Looking ahead for Marist’s Environmental Science Department, Klos expressed enthusiasm about new academic pathways combining technical foundations with interdisciplinary skills: “Our focus is on helping students build strong technical foundations and the systems thinking skills needed to navigate complex challenges.” For aspiring environmental leaders, he advised: “Start with what excites you and the strengths you already have… College is a time to experiment, reflect, and stay open.”
