Sustainability

Hellems to reopen: A new era of sustainability and learning

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:42:07 +0000

Hellems to reopen: A new era of sustainability and learning Megan M Rogers Wed, 12/10/2025 - 13:42

After more than two years, the historic Hellems Arts and Sciences building is ready to welcome faculty, staff and students back to campus life. This month, faculty and staff members will begin moving into their newly renovated offices, and when the spring semester kicks off in January, students will once again fill the halls of one of CU ��ý��’s most iconic academic spaces.

The renovation was made possible through a combination of university resources and partial funding from the state of Colorado, underscoring the shared commitment to preserving historic campus spaces while advancing sustainability and student success.

A thoughtful renovation for modern needs

Originally constructed in 1921, Hellems was the first building on campus designed in Charles Klauder’s signature Tuscan vernacular style and has long been a cornerstone of the university’s academic experience. The renovation project was designed not only to preserve its historic character but also to meet the needs of today’s learners and educators. The updated spaces feature improved accessibility, modernized classrooms and collaborative areas that foster connection and creativity.

The building also holds cultural significance as the home of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, which stages performances in the adjacent Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre each summer. The renovation ensures this beloved tradition continues in a space that reflects CU ��ý��’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

Student-first design

From the earliest planning stages, the renovation followed a student-first process, incorporating feedback from students to ensure the building supports their academic success and well-being. Classrooms were reimagined to encourage active learning and collaboration, while study spaces and common areas were designed to promote comfort, flexibility and community. These changes aim to create an environment where students can thrive academically and socially within a historic setting that now meets modern expectations.

“The renovation of Hellems was guided by a student-first approach,” said Ann Stevens, provost and executive vice chancellor for academic affairs. “Every design decision, from flexible classrooms to collaborative spaces, was made with the goal of enhancing how students learn and connect. This reimagined building creates an environment that supports academic success, fosters community and reflects the values of a modern university.”

Sustainability at the core

One of the most significant aspects of the renovation is its commitment to sustainability. The project incorporated multiple strategies to reduce environmental impact, including:

Energy efficiency: Upgraded HVAC systems, LED lighting and enhanced insulation dramatically improve energy performance.
Water conservation: Low-flow fixtures and efficient plumbing systems help minimize water usage.
Material choices: More than 80% of original clay roof tiles were reused, and terrazzo and hardwood flooring were refurbished instead of replaced.
Smart design: Triple-pane windows, daylight-optimized layouts and improved ventilation create healthier, more efficient spaces.

These efforts will reduce the building’s energy use intensity (EUI) by nearly 68%, even with the addition of air conditioning.

“This project is truly setting the bar for what a building that is over 100 years old can achieve,” said Chris Ewing, vice chancellor for infrastructure and resilience. “We’re dramatically cutting energy use and emissions while creating modern, flexible spaces that support student success based on their input into the design process. These upgrades foster collaboration, comfort and well-being—key elements for learning—while reducing operating costs and improving efficiency.”

“This project reflects CU ��ý��’s commitment to climate action and sustainability leadership,” said Andrew Mayock, vice chancellor for sustainability. “Hellems is now a model for how we can honor our history, and create modern spaces for students and faculty, while building for a low-carbon future.”

The university is also targeting LEED Gold certification, a benchmark for sustainable building practices.

Looking ahead

With faculty returning in mid-December and students arriving for classes in January, the reopening of Hellems marks a milestone in CU ��ý��’s commitment to sustainability, inclusivity and academic excellence.

“Hellems is more than a building. It’s a symbol of CU ��ý��’s dedication to the liberal arts as the intellectual heart of the university,” says Daryl Maeda, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “A liberal arts education teaches us to think deeply, question critically and connect ideas across disciplines. In the reimagined Hellems, those connections become a lived experience.”

To celebrate this achievement, Arts and Sciences Donor and Alumni Relations, in partnership with Arts and Sciences academic leadership, is planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 10, 2026, aligning with the university’s 150th anniversary.

CU ��ý��'s historic Hellems building is reopening after a major renovation focused on student success and sustainability, with faculty moving in mid-December and students returning for spring classes in January. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for April to celebrate the building and the university's 150th anniversary.

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Prioritizing sustainability: A look back with Andrew Mayock

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 11:59:00 +0000

Prioritizing sustainability: A look back with Andrew Mayock Megan M Rogers Mon, 12/08/2025 - 04:59

As the fall 2025 semester comes to a close, CU ��ý�� continues to build momentum toward its long-term sustainability goals—one of the campus priorities recently discussed by Chancellor Justin Schwartz.

From advances in climate research and innovative curriculum to major operational improvements and new community partnerships, CU ��ý�� continues to operate as a true living lab—one where high-impact sustainability work happens every day.

Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock reflects on what stood out this semester, why it matters and what's ahead in 2026.

Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock

How has CU ��ý�� advanced in sustainability this semester?

It has been an exciting semester across research, education, operations and community engagement. Notable achievements include:

The announcement of the Buckley Center for Sustainability Education thanks to a generous $10 million gift from alumnus Spike Buckley.
CU ��ý��’s selection by the Carnegie Foundation to host a new nationwide sustainability elective, giving the university the opportunity to lead nationally and shape the student experience.
The launch of ��ý�� Climate Ventures, a Leeds-hosted course sponsored by Breakthrough Energy, bringing world-renowned climate tech leaders to campus.
Operational progress on campus, which included breaking ground on a 1.1-megawatt solar array; VPPA and Xcel partnerships; and expanded circularity efforts through food recovery, composting and the CU Surplus Store and Recycling Operations Center achieving roughly 50% waste diversion.

What projects are you most excited about for the year ahead?

The coming year will focus on scaling initiatives and connecting the campus community. The Buckley Center is staffing up and launching new programs, while the Carnegie initiative expands to other institutions. Students and faculty will have more hands-on opportunities through courses, research and interdisciplinary programs like the Environmental Center and the Sustainability Research Initiative.

Operational priorities include advancing the Climate Action Plan through energy-system transitions, waste reduction and renewable-energy expansion. We also will work to increase visibility of our sustainability work locally, nationally and globally, highlighting CU ��ý��’s leadership.

How can faculty, staff and students help achieve these goals?

Everyone on campus can play a role in achieving our sustainability goals. Students can get involved through the Environmental Center, attend events such as the spring Sustainability Summit, participate in Earth Week in April, or sign up to take sustainability and climate courses offered across departments. Faculty can explore ways to integrate sustainability into teaching and research, including the Buckley Center and Sustainability Research Initiative. Staff and students can take action on learning how sustainability is a part of daily campus operations, from transportation and building systems to zero-waste events.

Most importantly, the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Sustainability wants to hear from you: Sharing success stories and ongoing projects helps promote collaborative efforts, build momentum and accelerate progress toward our shared goals. Also, we will be creating new opportunities for engagement, including office hours to open more avenues to hear directly from students.

Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock discusses what stood out this semester, why it matters and what's ahead in 2026.

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Small changes, big impact: Going zero waste

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:08:34 +0000

Small changes, big impact: Going zero waste Megan M Rogers Thu, 12/04/2025 - 09:08

Check out this guide from the Environmental Center for easy, practical steps to reduce waste and help make our community more sustainable.

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From town hall to action: November Sustainability Council recap

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:09:38 +0000

From town hall to action: November Sustainability Council recap Megan M Rogers Mon, 12/01/2025 - 08:09

The Campus Sustainability Council convened on Nov. 14 to discuss the following topics:

Debrief from town hall

Positive feedback: Attendees appreciated the use of notecards for submitting questions, describing the process as authentic and unscripted.
Student engagement: Students expressed interest in learning how to get involved. The council will ensure materials outlining engagement opportunities are available at future events.
Transparency and communication: Suggestions included posting FAQs from the town hall and considering digital platforms (Mentimeter, FeedBeo) for collecting and upvoting questions at future engagements.
Visibility: The council will explore hosting tables in high-traffic areas to increase faculty, staff and student engagement.
Collaboration: The shared ownership of the town hall aligns with the council's goal of making sustainability feel like a collective effort, so they plan to maintain that inclusive approach.

Next steps

The next town hall is tentatively scheduled for the week of the Campus Sustainability Summit, aiming to build on recent successes and lessons learned.

Proposal form and process

Promotion: The Environmental Center will distribute flyers with QR codes linking to the proposal submission form, leveraging their frequent tabling.
Form improvements: Council members suggested adding targeted questions and prompts (e.g., strategies to eliminate single-use plastics) to the form.
Process transparency: The council will share a simple diagram outlining how proposals move from submission to collaboration, ensuring continued transparency and engagement.

Leadership transition

The council is seeking internal leaders to facilitate meetings next semester. Spring leaders will be identified at the next meeting to support a smooth transition.

Engagement and learning opportunities

Energy-focused tour: Plans are underway for a council tour of Hellems to highlight energy initiatives.
District Energy Plant field trip: The council plans to organize a visit to the district energy plants to assess current operations and future directions.

Join the Sustainable Buffs community

Share your sustainability ideas

The Campus Sustainability Council convened on Nov. 14 to review the recent town hall and other topics.

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Key takeaways from the Sustainability Town Hall

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:56:46 +0000

Key takeaways from the Sustainability Town Hall Megan M Rogers Fri, 11/21/2025 - 13:56

On Nov. 5, more than 130 participants came together for a dynamic session focused on collaboration for campuswide sustainability initiatives. The aim was to update students, faculty and staff across campus on the latest sustainability work, while also providing an open forum for questions, discussion and feedback.

Sustainability leaders from across campus, including Vice Chancellor of Sustainability Andrew Mayock and Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Resilience Chris Ewing, opened by reaffirming CU ��ý��’s commitment to a bold sustainability vision that positions the university as a leader in climate action and innovation. This vision is grounded in a four-pillar framework designed to guide every decision and initiative moving forward.

Here are the key takeaways from the event:

Campus sustainability vision

Mayock shared a roadmap for sustainability impact, an approach that reflects CU ��ý��’s belief that sustainability is integrated into academics, operations and community engagement. The four-pillar framework emphasizes:

Equipping students with sustainability problem-solving skills so they graduate ready to lead
Transforming research into actionable solutions that address real-world challenges
Leading by example through operational excellence and climate-conscious practices
Partnering locally and globally to find sustainability solutions in this urgent moment

Buckley Center and research integration

The Buckley Center for Sustainability Education is advancing sustainability education and embedding it into research and operations. Faculty Executive Director Max Boykoff highlighted how the Sustainability Research Initiative leverages CU’s research strengths to scale solutions beyond the region. These efforts ensure sustainability is practiced and amplified through innovation in addition to being taught.

Student engagement

Environmental Center Director Chris Herr issued a call to action for students: Get involved and make an impact. The Environmental Center offers multiple ways to participate, including following on social media, joining the newsletter, volunteering, attending events and exploring applied learning opportunities. These opportunities empower students to turn passion into practice.

Join the Sustainable Buffs community

Share your sustainability ideas

Sustainability Council updates

The Sustainability Council, which fosters the integration of sustainability across all aspects of the university, launched a new proposal form to curate ideas and projects. This tool introduces two tiers—general ideas and specific proposals—with clear review windows and governance. It’s a streamlined way for the campus community to shape sustainability initiatives.

Operations: Newsworthy updates

Ewing and campus operations officials shared critical updates on progress toward CU ��ý��’s operational goals, including the Climate Action Plan. This plan sets ambitious targets: 50% emissions reduction by 2030 and zero emissions by 2050.

One major piece of this effort is the steam-to-hot-water conversion, a process that began with hiring a consultant in July. Geothermal studies to investigate viability at the CU campus are also underway, signaling CU ��ý��’s commitment to long-term energy transformation.

CU ��ý�� continues to expand its renewable portfolio with a new 1.1 megawatt solar array, alongside Virtual Power Purchase Agreement and Xcel partnerships. These investments accelerate the transition to clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

And efforts to close the loop are growing. Back-of-house food recovery and composting programs are scaling up, while the CU Surplus Store and Recycling Operations Center are driving approximately 50% waste diversion.

On Nov. 5, more than 130 participants came together for a dynamic session, updating students, faculty and staff across campus on the latest sustainability work, while also providing an open forum for questions, discussion and feedback.

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COP movement on climate change continues despite missing US delegation

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 16:27:00 +0000

COP movement on climate change continues despite missing US delegation Megan M Rogers Thu, 11/20/2025 - 09:27

Max Boykoff, executive faculty director of the Buckley Center for Sustainability Education at CU ��ý��, speaks on a panel at COP30 in Brazil.

As the annual United Nations COP30 enters its second week, international policymakers are discussing critical issues, including the rise in natural disasters worldwide and the next steps for global fossil fuel policy. With no official U.S. delegates in attendance this year, state representatives, academics and other U.S. nationals have stepped in to represent the country in new ways.

COP30 is being held in Belém, Brazil, and Max Boykoff, executive faculty director of the Buckley Center for Sustainability Education at CU ��ý��, attended the first week. We sat down with him to hear about his experience, reflections on COP30 and his perspective on what it looked like without U.S. representatives at the table.

Max Boykoff

COP30's location in the Amazon carried enormous symbolic and political weight—how did this change the conversations?

Yes, Belem, Brazil, is a toughened, weathered city near the equator at the mouth of the Amazon River and edge of the Amazon Rainforest. This city hosts the event as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was determined to bring the eyes of the world and nearly 60,000 COP30 participants to Belem.

The placement of the event also lowered travel barriers for many Indigenous groups in the Amazon region. It has been reported there have been more than 900 Indigenous participants at this COP30, which is three times higher than the last meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan.

How did the absence of the US shape the tone of the negotiations and the conversations?

Yes, unfortunately, the Trump Administration chose not to send any U.S. delegates to COP30. This absence means missed opportunities to demonstrate moral and material leadership; engage in the clean energy transition; and discuss trade, security, energy and human rights issues.

The U.S. is nearly alone in missing the talks, with only three other countries—Afghanistan, Myanmar and San Marino—choosing not to participate. Notably, when the Trump Administration withdrew from the Paris Agreement, a legally binding international commitment to combat climate change and reduce global emission, the U.S. joined only Iran, Yemen and Libya on the short list of non-participants in the climate pact.

Did the lack of US engagement open space for other countries, regions or non-state actors to step forward, or did it create a vacuum that slowed momentum?

Yes, other countries and member states are stepping into the leadership vacuum left by the absence of U.S. negotiators. Notably, I have observed Brazil, China, Kenya and Malawi stepping forward in vocal roles. Also, I sat in on some of California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s visit here, demonstrating ongoing subnational U.S. engagement in the absence of national leadership at present. Additionally, it was reported that New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham also was in attendance last week.

There are many other U.S.-based subnational public officials as well as university faculty and students that are nonetheless continuing to work diligently despite the absence of the U.S. negotiating team. There is also an active "America is All In" coalition here (representing U.S. cities; states; tribal nations; businesses; schools; and institutions of faith, health and culture) that is hosting events and activities to demonstrate the stance of the U.S. Trump Administration is limited.

It is hard to say yet whether U.S. delegation non-participation is slowing momentum. Some here have expressed relief that Trump officials are not in the way or actively obstructing concerted action here. But looking at this through the lens of greenhouse gas emissions paired with capacity to constructively contribute to solutions, makes their absence unavoidably felt: Historically, the U.S. has been the largest emitter of CO2 globally and is the world’s richest country on planet Earth.

Key takeaways

While U.S. federal standing has diminished, challenges persist. Those most at risk from climate change often have the least power to influence solutions. However, youth and civil society mobilizations, including Indigenous-led movements, have been visible throughout COP30 and across Belém, advocating for deep decarbonization, opposition to extractive and exploitative industries, and support for environmental justice.

A landmark Declaration on Information Integrity on Climate Change was launched at COP30, establishing shared international commitments to address climate disinformation and promote evidence-based information. Thirteen countries have signed so far, pledging to support information integrity at international, national and local levels, in line with human rights and Paris Agreement principles.

What role did higher education institutions play at COP30, and how can they meaningfully contribute when official pathways feel gridlocked?

This has been dubbed the "mutirão meeting." This Portuguese word signifies coming together in collective efforts to achieve a common goal. This has also been referred to as "the truth COP" and "the implementation COP," as representatives of most nations around the world gather here to make progress on international climate policy to combat climate change.

With collaborators at Colorado State and Colorado College, we have leaned into our privileges and responsibilities as researchers and academics advising and mentoring students. With them I represented CU ��ý�� as we co-hosted and led a discussion with university graduate and undergraduate students and four former U.S. climate negotiators/delegates. About 70 students participated and had the chance to ask questions ranging from how they themselves can become a negotiator to how they view the current state of negotiations.

This was a moment where students not only gathered to ask these questions but it was also a moment where we shared our perspectives— from hopes and ambitions to worries and concerns about the ongoing climate negotiations. It was a positive experience that we seek to continue providing in future COP meetings in collaboration with Colorado-based universities and colleges.

How did you and others from CU ��ý�� participate/show up at COP30 this year?

This year I spoke at four events, while attending several others and also observing parts of the ongoing negotiations.

Among them I spoke about media, advertising and public relations contributions to mis- and dis-information about climate change at one panel event called "Research and Evidence to Strengthen Information Integrity on Climate Change." In addition, I also spoke at another panel event focused on implementing new forest economies, climate finance, Indigenous digital sovereignty, and climate communications at the subnational level.

Max Boykoff, who attended the first week of the United Nations Climate Change Conference shares his experience, reflections and perspective on what COP30 looked like without United States representatives at the table.

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Plant-based dining center hacks

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:38:19 +0000

Plant-based dining center hacks Megan M Rogers Fri, 11/14/2025 - 08:38

Are you curious about incorporating more plant-based meals and snacks into your diet? Check out these tips and ideas to try more plant-based options at campus dining centers.

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On Jane Goodall's legacy—a Q&A with Andrew Mayock

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:15:01 +0000

On Jane Goodall's legacy—a Q&A with Andrew Mayock Megan M Rogers Thu, 11/13/2025 - 14:15

As CU ��ý�� deepens its commitment to sustainability and climate action, Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock brings a uniquely global perspective to campus. In addition to leading CU’s sustainability strategy, Mayock serves on the board of the Jane Goodall Institute, helping to carry forward the legacy of one of the world’s most influential environmental leaders.

Mayock recently returned from a board trip to Tanzania, where the board visited the Gombe Stream Research Centre, a living laboratory, home to the world’s most studied group of wild chimpanzees, and met with Roots & Shoots students in Kigoma and Arusha.

We spoke with him about what’s next for Goodall’s mission, how her philosophy aligns with CU ��ý��’s vision, and what it will take to inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Goodall has inspired generations to care deeply about our planet. What’s next for her legacy? How is the institute evolving to meet today's global sustainability challenges?

Visiting Gombe, the birthplace of Jane’s groundbreaking research, was a profound reminder that her legacy began with careful observation, empathy, and a willingness to challenge convention. Jane was also passionate about empowering young people to become involved in conservation and humanitarian projects.

Today, the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) is about maintaining Jane’s momentum and deepening her work and legacy by combining rigorous science with community-centered conservation. This means not only protecting chimpanzees and other species and their habitats but also empowering the people who live alongside them. JGI’s work in forest restoration, sustainable livelihoods, and youth engagement continues to exemplify the shift from conservation for people and wildlife to conservation with people and wildlife. Further, it is about continuing to expand Roots and Shoots, the youth leadersship program, started over thirty years ago.

Goodall often emphasized hope and individual action as the foundation for change. How can large institutions like CU harness that same sense of agency?

Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock

Goodall’s message—that every individual makes a difference—translates powerfully into the context of a university like CU ��ý��. Large institutions can sometimes feel impersonal or slow to move, yet they are made up of individuals whose daily choices shape culture and impact.

At CU ��ý��, we’re working to embed agency into every level of sustainability engagement. That means creating pathways for personal connection—through participatory climate planning, faculty-led research that responds to community needs, and student projects that turn ideas into action. By linking global challenges to local solutions and celebrating visible progress, we nurture the same sense of purpose and hope that Jane has inspired in millions around the world.

The Roots & Shoots movement empowered young people to take action in their communities. What can universities do to cultivate that same spirit of curiosity, compassion and commitment?

Meeting Roots & Shoots students in Tanzania reminded me that curiosity, compassion and community are universal, and essential, for sustainable change. Universities can cultivate this spirit by reimagining education not as a transmission of knowledge but as a co-creation of solutions.

Programs that integrate experiential learning, civic engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration are key. When students see that their actions—whether restoring a local ecosystem, addressing food insecurity or developing new climate technologies—can tangibly improve their community, they experience the same transformative spark that Jane ignited in her young changemakers.

How can institutions balance the personal call to action with the systemic change required at the scale of higher education or government?

Jane recognized that stories move hearts, and data moves minds. Institutions need both. At CU ��ý��, we’re learning that systemic change, whether achieving carbon neutrality or embedding sustainability into the curriculum, relies on connecting the personal to the structural.

By elevating personal narratives of action and aligning them with institutional goals, we humanize the systems we seek to transform. A student’s composting project, a researcher’s breakthrough in renewable energy or a staff member’s innovative waste solution—each story becomes part of a collective movement toward systemic transformation.

The balance lies in recognizing that systemic change starts with individual conviction, and individual conviction is sustained by belonging to something larger than oneself. That’s the essence of Jane’s message, and the opportunity before all of us.

In addition to leading CU's sustainability strategy, Vice Chancellor of Sustainability Andrew Mayock serves on the board of the Jane Goodall Institute, helping to carry forward the legacy of one of the world's most influential environmental leaders.

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Masters of the Environment alums discuss trends, careers in sustainability

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:26:36 +0000

Masters of the Environment alums discuss trends, careers in sustainability Megan M Rogers Mon, 11/10/2025 - 11:26

Nearly 200 current students, alumni and faculty from the Masters of the Environment (MENV) program at CU ��ý�� came together for the second annual Alumni Engagement Day—a dynamic gathering designed to foster connections, career development and collaboration within the sustainability sector.

Held in the Sustainability, Energy and Environment Complex (SEEC) on CU ��ý��’s campus, the event provided current and former students the opportunity to share their work in the environmental and sustainability fields, explore career paths, expand their professional networks through interactive programming and relationship building.

"The sheer energy and breadth of impact in one space was incredible. Seeing current students starting their journeys alongside alums who are now leaders across every sector of sustainability truly reminded me of the power of the MENV network. It’s more than a degree; it’s a commitment to a collective purpose and community," said alum Jenna Batson, who serves as the outdoor water conservation coordinator on the Colorado Water Conservation Board.

The day featured seven panel discussions and three “lunch-and-learn” presentations, with alumni sharing their experiences and insights from various sectors such as environmental policy, corporate sustainability and renewable energy. They represented organizations including the Rocky Mountain Institute; Colorado Energy Office; and Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency.

Each session was moderated by MENV faculty and staff who guided the conversations and incorporated their own expertise.

Josh Radoff—renewable and sustainable energy specialization lead and associate teaching professor within MENV, as well as CU’s director of campus climate action, sustainability and resilience—reflected on the event, saying, “It’s great to see how successful and how broadly impactful our students are when they get out in the field. The panelists this year were a great representation of the various careers and roles in the energy and decarbonization and sustainability space.”

In addition to formal programming, current students had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one coffee chats with about 40 MENV alumni. These informal conversations allowed students to gain advice from sustainability professionals on topics such as navigating the job market and expanding their professional networks.

Current student at MENV Stephany Correa-Diaz shared, “It was inspiring to see what MENV alumni have accomplished in their fields after finishing this program, and I really appreciated their advice, especially when I’m getting ready to graduate this spring.”

MENV Alumni Engagement Day event is co-organized by the MENV Capstone Program, led by Alice Reznickova; and the MENV Career and Professional Development program, led by Laura George; and their graduate student assistants Casey Chabot and Erin Bucchin. This allows for synergies in relevant sustainability and career-development content while ensuring students are directly involved in designing meaningful programs for their community.

George emphasized the value of the event, stating, “Alumni Engagement Day is designed not just to support career development for students but also to give alumni an opportunity to share their work; connect with other alumni who they may not have had the chance to meet; and learn new things about emerging trends, technologies and strategies beyond their current industry. The event convenes the MENV community in a way that reminds folks that their work is part of the greater network of sustainability initiatives across Colorado and beyond. It’s energizing and encourages interconnection and collaboration across industries.”

Alumni Engagement Day highlights the MENV's commitment to preparing students and alumni for impactful careers and leadership in sustainability. Events such as this are key to keeping the MENV network informed, engaged and inspired in a rapidly evolving sustainability landscape and offer a blueprint for other programs looking to build their ecosystems.

Nearly 200 students, alumni and faculty from CU ��ý��'s Masters of the Environment program gathered for the second annual Alumni Engagement Day to network, share experiences and build connections across the sustainability field.

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Campus wayfinding—Give your feedback at webinars Nov. 14, 20

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 21:42:25 +0000

Campus wayfinding—Give your feedback at webinars Nov. 14, 20 Megan M Rogers Fri, 11/07/2025 - 14:42

Finding your way around campus shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. Yet, outdated signage has made navigation challenging for visitors and even long-time campus members. That’s about to change.

The Campus Wayfinding Revamp Project is underway. The Phase 1 installation of light pole banners on Main Campus is complete and moving to Williams Village and East Campus. These banners serve as the first step toward a more intuitive campus experience.

Campus Wayfinding Revamp Project webinars

Friday, Nov. 14
10 a.m. (MT)
Register

Thursday, Nov. 20
1 p.m. (MT)
Register

Phase 2 will bring a full redesign of exterior building signage, including campus maps and wayfinding, led by AW-ARCH, a Massachusetts architecture firm, in partnership with CU ��ý��’s core team.

The improved signage effort goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about functionality, safety and accessibility. Future signage is intended to address additional languages, enhanced accessibility, storytelling and the campus land acknowledgement.

Community input is central to this process. QR-coded billboards on light poles will link to a short survey asking about your wayfinding experience. Two campuswide webinars on Nov. 14 and Nov. 20 will introduce the project and invite feedback.

A second round of presentations and webinars in January will showcase design concepts.

Your voice matters. Help create a campus that’s easy to navigate and welcoming for all. Join a webinar and be part of shaping the future of campus wayfinding.

Campus navigation at CU ��ý�� is getting a major upgrade through the Campus Wayfinding Revamp Project.

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Sustainability

Hellems to reopen: A new era of sustainability and learning

A thoughtful renovation for modern needs

Student-first design

Sustainability at the core

Looking ahead

Related Articles

Prioritizing sustainability: A look back with Andrew Mayock

How has CU ������ý���� advanced in sustainability this semester?

What projects are you most excited about for the year ahead?

How can faculty, staff and students help achieve these goals?

Related Articles

Small changes, big impact: Going zero waste

Related Articles

From town hall to action: November Sustainability Council recap

Debrief from town hall

Next steps

Proposal form and process

Leadership transition

Engagement and learning opportunities

Related Articles

Key takeaways from the Sustainability Town Hall

Campus sustainability vision

Buckley Center and research integration

Student engagement

Sustainability Council updates

Operations: Newsworthy updates

Related Articles

COP movement on climate change continues despite missing US delegation

COP30's location in the Amazon carried enormous symbolic and political weight—how did this change the conversations?

How did the absence of the US shape the tone of the negotiations and the conversations?

Did the lack of US engagement open space for other countries, regions or non-state actors to step forward, or did it create a vacuum that slowed momentum?

What role did higher education institutions play at COP30, and how can they meaningfully contribute when official pathways feel gridlocked?

How did you and others from CU ������ý���� participate/show up at COP30 this year?

Related Articles

Plant-based dining center hacks

Related Articles

On Jane Goodall's legacy—a Q&A with Andrew Mayock

Goodall has inspired generations to care deeply about our planet. What’s next for her legacy? How is the institute evolving to meet today's global sustainability challenges?

Goodall often emphasized hope and individual action as the foundation for change. How can large institutions like CU harness that same sense of agency?

The Roots & Shoots movement empowered young people to take action in their communities. What can universities do to cultivate that same spirit of curiosity, compassion and commitment?

How can institutions balance the personal call to action with the systemic change required at the scale of higher education or government?

Related Articles

Masters of the Environment alums discuss trends, careers in sustainability

Related Articles

Campus wayfinding—Give your feedback at webinars Nov. 14, 20

Related Articles

How has CU ��ý�� advanced in sustainability this semester?

How did you and others from CU ��ý�� participate/show up at COP30 this year?