MCLA Green Living Seminar: 'Mindful Birding and the Science of Awe'

05:26PM / Tuesday, February 10, 2026Print Story | Email Story

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts' (MCLA) Green Living Seminar continues its spring 2026 "Nature and Spirituality" theme with a presentation on "Mindful Birding and the Science of Awe: Improving Our Health & Saving the Planet" on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 5:30 p.m. in The Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation, Room 121.

Educator and naturalist Dave Edson will explore why birding has become one of the fastest-growing hobbies in recent years and how this practice can improve mental health, environmental awareness, and even international relations. Through the lens of Mindful Birding and the Science of Awe, Edson will share an approach rooted in healing, wonder, and joy, stated a press release.

According to a press release:

"Why is birding so (literally) awesome? What can birding teach us about mental health? The health of our planet?" Edson asks. "We will investigate these questions and more. While there is no one or 'right' way to bird, Mindful Birding through the lens of the Science of Awe, specifically, is an approach rooted in healing, wonder, and joy that can improve our lives in meaningful and limitless ways."

Edson is a multidisciplinary birder with an extensive background in theatre, music, education, and the great outdoors. He taught in schools for over twenty years and has been a consultant for outdoor organizations working to make their missions more diverse, equitable, accessible, and inclusive. He has facilitated birding outings in the Berkshires with Mass Audubon, Hoffmann Bird Club, Berkshire Natural Resources Council, Mixed Faces Wild Spaces, and numerous other organizations.

"One of my life goals is to further connect our collective appreciation for biodiversity with our understanding and love of the diversity of humans," Edson said. "Birding is for EVERYONE and the goal is JOY."

The presentation is part of MCLA's 12-week "Nature and Spirituality" series, which examines how faith, religion, and spiritual traditions shape our relationship with the natural world.

"This semester's theme examines the profound connections between spirituality and environmental stewardship," said Dr. Elena Traister, MCLA professor of environmental studies and the series' organizer. "From Indigenous perspectives to climate activism rooted in faith, these conversations are more relevant than ever."

All Green Living Seminar sessions are free and open to the public.

This semester's Green Living Seminar series explores "Nature and Spirituality," a 12-week examination of how faith, religion, and spiritual traditions shape our relationship with the natural world. All presentations will be recorded as podcasts available at www.mcla.edu/greenliving.

For more information, contact Dr. Elena Traister at elena.traister@mcla.edu or (413) 662-5303.

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North Adams Housing Authority Director Steps Down

Staff Reports09:16AM / Friday, October 09, 2026

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Jennifer Hohn, the longtime executive director of the North Adams Housing Authority (NAHA), has stepped down after 24 years with the agency.

The Berkshire Eagle reported that Hohn resigned from her position on Thursday. The NAHA Board of Commissioners is currently developing a transition plan.

Her resignation follows rising tension between Hohn and the tenants association. Residents—particularly at the Spring and Ashland Park apartments—have raised specific concerns regarding building security, drug activity, and trespassers.

This summer, Tenants Association President Corey Fortin posted a video on social media demonstrating that door alarms in some of the buildings were not functioning.

Shortly after the video was posted, the tenants association's office was locked. Members alleged Hohn locked the space in retaliation, while Hohn maintained it was a matter of tenant safety. Hohn also stated that NAHA does not officially recognize the association because it has yet to go through official channels for certification—a claim the tenants association disputes.

The dispute culminated in plans for a formal grievance hearing between Hohn and the association. Both sides agreed to hold a meeting on Oct. 3, but the hearing had not yet been scheduled at the time of her resignation.
During her tenure as director, Hohn oversaw significant changes at NAHA, including expansion and the dissolution of Housing Opportunities Incorporated, a program founded over 30 years ago to assist first-time homebuyers. Most recently, she led efforts to transition NAHA properties from traditional public housing models to the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. She also directed the rebuilding of a Greylock Valley Apartments building after it was severely damaged by a fire.

The NAHA Board of Commissioners meets monthly, typically on Mondays.

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