Congratulations to Development and Alumni Relations for becoming the fifth platinum certified office in the Sustainable Office Program! Development and Alumni Relations completed 131 sustainable actions and is the 35th office on campus to be certified since the program was launched in the spring of 2015!
The Sustainable Office Program is a voluntary, self-guided program designed for faculty and staff to take the lead on promoting environmental practices in the workplace. By taking action in a variety of topic areas, departments like Development and Alumni Relations can reduce their environmental footprint, be responsible stewards of the university’s resources, and contribute to Lehigh’s sustainability goals and commitments.
A platinum certification indicates that an office has completed more than 120 sustainable actions. These actions are categorized by ‘Participation & Engagement,’ ‘Climate & Energy,’ ‘Food & Dining,’ ‘Purchasing,’ ‘Community Building & Social Equity, ‘Transportation,’ ‘Waste,’ ‘Water,’ and ‘Events & Meetings.’ In order for a department or office to be certified, they must complete actions in each of these categories.
Miki Sankary, the Sustainable Office Representative for Development and Alumni Relations, worked hard with the other members of the DAR Sustainable Office Committee to get their entire department certified. This involved working to get 95 of their colleagues to get buy in and support for the sustainable actions they were going to pursue. By participating in the program, Miki has become more familiar with the operations of Development and Alumni Relations and Lehigh. Miki said, “This was a really fun journey that brought together members from different teams in our office around a common passion, and a common cause. It truly takes a village and a coordinated effort from all to achieve this positive impact in our home away from home.”
There is visible environmental consciousness on the Lehigh campus, as exhibited here by the success of this program. We encourage Development and Alumni Relations to celebrate the good news by sharing their accomplishments online and with coworkers! We look forward to seeing more offices and departments join the program. Let us know your office is interested in the program by filling out the registration form. A Sustainable Office team member will further discuss the program with your office before beginning.