Sustain Appalachian

In 2009, The Office of Sustainability was created in order to guide and support the university toward its sustainability commitment. In support of the university sustainability mission statement the Office of Sustainability has developed the following core functions: 

Guide strategic goals and direction

Guide the university's direction by developing strategic goals that prioritize organizational commitments to sustainability. This effort catalyzes our campus community around a shared vision for a sustainable world.

Encourage collaborative effort

Create strategic partnerships between students, faculty, and staff that combine knowledge, expertise and resources across campus. These connections advance our understanding of and commitment to one another, thus enriching our shared experience. This effort is best demonstrated by our organizationally diverse Sustainability Council.

Develop guidelines and policies

Develop specific guidelines and policies that support our strategic commitments to sustainability. This task is informed and aided by key university stakeholders and best practices for sustainability in higher education.

Foster education and learning

Appalachian believes sustainability is an educational imperative and seeks to connect practices with pedagogy and learning. Through this transformational effort, we will connect academic programs, research efforts, campus operations, pedagogy and learning outcomes with principles of sustainability, thus preparing our students to be the leaders of today and tomorrow.

Communicate with engaged communities

Create, support and communicate opportunities for involvement and active participation. Engage our campus community in ongoing dialogue, inquiry and discovery of more sustainable practices.

Measure and assess progress

Create metrics and mechanisms to evaluate programs; engage in thoughtful reflection and assessment which informs strategic direction.