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Alumni News
Becoming Net-Positive : Climate Action Visionary & Gould Alumni, Phil Coupe ’86 Headlines Earth Day Celebration
Gould Academy students & faculty kicked off this year’s Earth Day celebration with an inspiring visit from Gould Alumni, climate action leader and co-founder of Revision Energy, Phil Coupe ’86. A nationally recognized advocate for renewable energy and climate resilience, Phil addressed students and faculty in Bingham Hall Auditorium with a message that was both inspiring and empowering. He spoke about his life’s work transforming fossil fuel–based economies and societies into solar-powered, sustainable communities — and the responsibility that today’s young people have to shape an equitable future for all.
Throughout his presentation, Phil challenged the audience to think not only about the science and economics of renewable energy, but also the moral imperative of taking action. He emphasized that solving the climate crisis requires more than technology; it calls for courage, creativity, and a deep commitment to justice.
“What kind of person do I want to be, and what kind of world do I want to live in?” he asked — a question that landed with powerful resonance among students and faculty alike. Phil encouraged the Gould community to embrace a net positive mindset, striving to give more than they take and to leave the planet better than they found it.
Phil Coupe’s visit served as a meaningful reminder that Earth Day is not just about awareness, it’s about accountability & action. His story offered a real-world example of how a Gould education can lead to a life of purpose and impact, grounded in values that transcend generations. As students left the auditorium, energized and thoughtful, conversations buzzed about clean energy careers, ethical leadership, and how to make sustainability a part of everyday life.
In a world that too often focuses on what’s wrong, Phil offered a vision of what’s possible and invited the next generation to help build it.
“At 8 billion people [globally], our existence needs to be a “team sport.” — Phil Coupe
Independent High School for Boys and Girls | Grades 9-12, Postgraduate and Winter Term for Grades 7-8 | Boarding School in the Mountains of Maine
Gould Academy guides students to be creative, courageous and resilient and to lead lives of fulfillment and purpose.
Gould Academy guides students to be creative, courageous and resilient and to lead lives of fulfillment and purpose.
