Recently, five students from The Storm King School participated in a dynamic, legal-focused Hackathon at Vassar College, organized by Political Science Professor Arpitha Kodiveri. The students were joined by SKS faculty member Courtney Sutter, who teaches Introduction to Law and Global Studies History, and Head of School Lisa Shambaugh.

Storm King’s students were assigned to four teams, collaborating with peers from nearby high schools to tackle one of two pressing legal scenarios. They were supported by Vassar students and climate lawyers before presenting their solutions to the group.

The first scenario focused on the urgent issue of climate migration, specifically how the law can protect climate refugees, particularly those from small island nations. The second scenario challenged students to strategize how a national government could take legal action against fossil fuel companies for their role in climate migration.

One team, led by Antonio M. ’26, earned special recognition for their innovative proposal using antitrust laws to litigate against fossil fuel companies. Following the event, the students expressed their gratitude for the experience and their interest in potentially applying to Vassar College.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Shambaugh noted, “It was powerful to see our students in the same space where our Board of Trustees recently met to shape the school’s future. It was a moment to reflect on the present, past, and future of Storm King.” During the event, Lisa also gave the students a tour of the Vassar campus, sharing personal anecdotes from her own time there as a student. “We’re lucky to have so many nearby colleges and universities, and as a Vassar alum, I’m excited to explore opportunities for future connection and partnership,” she added.