Our History
The Coffee & Conversation series at College of the Atlantic began as a summer tradition to foster meaningful dialogue between COA faculty, trustees, and invited guests from diverse disciplines. Held on Tuesday mornings in July and August, these gatherings offer a relaxed yet intellectually engaging space for the community to explore pressing environmental, social, and cultural topics. The series embodies COA's commitment to interdisciplinary learning and community engagement.
While the exact start date of the Coffee & Conversation series is unknown, archived sessions date back to at least 2011. Over the years, the series has evolved alongside shifts in the world and within the college community—adapting to a fully virtual format during the pandemic and now embracing a hybrid model that welcomes both in-person and online attendees.
Enhancing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of each Coffee & Conversation is the exceptional in-house and local talent that makes the experience uniquely COA. Connor O’Brien ’17, the college’s own baker, delights attendees with blueberry scones, lemon squares, and hand pies, often crafted with fresh produce from COA’s farms. These treats are served alongside freshly brewed coffee, made with beans roasted locally by Crooked Porch Coffee. Adding to the ambiance, vibrant floral arrangements from the COA community garden adorn the space. Together, these touches reflect the college’s commitment to sustainability, local agriculture, and community care.
Maps & Directions
Coffee & Conversation gatherings take place in the Davis Center for Human Ecology, affectionately referred to by community members as “CHE.” Opened in 2021 and designed in collaboration with architect Susan Rodriguez and Maine-based OPAL, the Davis Center is COA’s newest academic building and a vibrant hub for learning, discussion, and connection. Sessions are held on the first floor near the main entrance, in a space that is fully ADA accessible.
Directional signage is posted at key campus entry points to guide guests to the venue. Parking attendants will also be stationed along campus roads to assist with wayfinding and parking support. For the most convenient access, visitors are encouraged to park at the north end of campus, near the North Lawn.
Maps and directions, including printable campus maps, are available on the Maps & Directions page of the College of the Atlantic website.
Sustainability
Sustainability is central to the mission and daily life of College of the Atlantic. In 2007, COA became the first carbon-neutral college in the US, and we remain committed to eliminating fossil fuel use entirely by 2030. For nine consecutive years, COA has been named the greenest college in the country by The Princeton Review, a reflection of our deep, community-wide engagement with environmental and social justice.
From the food we grow and serve, to the energy we consume, to the systems we design for waste, cleaning, and transportation, sustainability is woven into every aspect of life and learning on campus.
As part of this ongoing commitment, we encourage guests attending Coffee & Conversation to consider carpooling, biking, or using other low-impact transportation options when visiting campus. We also invite attendees to bring their own reusable mugs and refillable water bottles, and to reuse printed programs whenever possible, helping us minimize waste and model thoughtful resource use year-round.
