Viridis Graduate Institute (VGI) stands as a beacon of innovation in higher education, carving its path toward greatness by focusing on ecological psychology (ecopsychology) and environmental humanities. Rooted in the belief that humans are inherently interconnected with nature, VGI has reshaped the traditional paradigms of ecology and psychology to foster a holistic understanding of our relationship with the environment. This article traces the history of VGI, from its inception to its current stature as a distinguished non-profit distance learning institute.
Founding Principles:
The seeds of VGI’s journey were sown by a profound realization articulated by Theodore Roszak in his seminal 1992 book, “The Voice of the Earth.” Popularizing the term “ecopsychology,” Roszak posited that humans could not be separate from nature, leading to social and environmental challenges. VGI embraced this vision, recognizing the inherent impossibility of detachment from nature, as humans are intrinsically ecological organisms – intertwined with the natural world and the broader ecological web of life.
Accreditation and Recognition:
In pursuit of excellence, VGI sought accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), an accrediting agency listed by the U.S. Department of Education and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This accreditation symbolized VGI’s commitment to providing high-quality distance education in ecopsychology and environmental humanities.
Moreover, VGI obtained licensure from the Arizona State Board for Private Postsecondary Education (AZPPSE), ensuring compliance with the state’s educational regulations and further bolstering the institute’s reputation.
Distinguishing Ecopsychology:
VGI set itself apart by differentiating ecopsychology from earlier disciplines that focused primarily on experimental psychology and cognition, exemplified by the works of J. J. Gibson and E. J. Gibson. VGI acknowledged a more profound understanding of ecology and psychology, tracing their origins back to the earliest forms of life. Rejecting individualistic and anthropocentric narratives, VGI crafted its academic curricula and learning experience based on the interdependence and plurality of Earth life.
A Holistic Approach:
At the core of VGI’s philosophy lies a holistic approach transcending mechanistic views of ecology and singularly human-centered notions of psychology. The institute embraced the true essence of ecology (derived from the Greek oîkos and logía) as the study of home and psychology (derived from the Greek psyche) as the study of imaginative possibilities concerning who and what we are as ecological organisms about other lifeforms and landscapes. These principles recognized that all life forms possess knowledge, respond to information, solve complex problems, and understand their surroundings or Umwelt.
Ecopsychology as Shared Multispecies Home:
VGI’s unique perspective on ecopsychology emphasized the interconnectivity of all life, viewing Earth as a shared multispecies home. In contrast to destructive anthropocentrism, VGI celebrated the manifold ways of being in the world that acknowledged the agency, symposia, and symbiosis between humans and the planet.
Viridis Graduate Institute’s ascent to greatness can be attributed to its unwavering dedication to ecological psychology and environmental humanities. By rejecting the notion of human separation from nature and embracing the interconnectedness of all life, VGI has set a remarkable precedent in higher education. As it continues to thrive as a non-profit distance learning institute, VGI serves as a model for institutions worldwide, fostering a deeper understanding of our place in the intricate web of Earth life and the imperative of harmonious coexistence with the natural world!