An update from Doug Phelps, president and executive director of The Public Interest Network: Donald Ross passed away on May 14 after a recent illness. He was 78 years old.

Some chemicals that are found in everyday household items can pose a threat to our health, especially when they leach out of those items and contaminate our waterways or food. One common class of chemicals, called PFAS, is used in a variety of products including outdoor clothing, rugs, food packaging and non-stick pans to make these products water-, stain- and grease-resistant. The problem is that PFAS exposure has been linked to a variety of severe health problems, including immune suppression and even cancer.

As many as one-third of America's fish and wildlife species are at risk of extinction. From high-flying birds to deep sea fish, species of all sizes and shapes have been touched by climate change and habitat loss. Preventing their extinction requires urgent and direct action.

Check out the latest alumni news! In the February Alumni Update, you'll see which of your fellow alumni has a new job or a new family member, and find Public Interest Network campaign updates from across the country.