sentences:  An important contribution Dr. Cortese made was the establishment of the American College & University Presidents' Climate Commitment, an organization of more than 600 colleges and universities in every state and the District of Columbia who have committed to take action on climate and prepare students through research and education to solve the climate challenges of the 21st century .He served as President of Second Nature from its establishment in March 1993 through August 2012—a period of almost 20 years.In 2012 he became a principal of Sustainable Visions, LLC, a frequent consultant to higher education, industry and non-profit organizations on establishment of sustainability principles and programs.