Our History

The Center for Sustainability was founded in the summer of 2012. Housed in the Johnson-McFarlane residence hall, it serves as the hub for all the sustainability-related activity on campus as well as a catalyst for change and collaboration.

The Center grew out of the many efforts of the Sustainability Council, which is an active group of students, staff, and faculty, who have been instrumental in leading many steps to sustainability. This council formed soon after the Chancellor signed the American Colleges and Universities Presidents' Climate Commitment, committing the University of Denver to being carbon neutral by 2050.

In the past year, the Center has been involved in many projects, including zero-waste hockey games, authentic interdisciplinary class projects, launching of a campus bike program, greenhouse gas audit, and much more.

Check out our Timeline to learn more about sustainability at DU!

Our Mission

The Mission of the Center is to multiply the good of many so that all may flourish.

Engage. Innovate. Flourish.

Our Purpose

The Center exists to coordinate efforts campus-wide by connecting groups and individuals who are interested in collaboration. The Center is also a repository of institutional knowledge.

Meet Our Staff

Chad King, PhD , University Sustainability Coordinator
(303) 871-3345 (or x13345 on campus)

Amy Laughlin, Graduate Student
Initiatives: Climate Mitigation Plan

Andrew Bishop, Undergraduate Student
Initiatives: Wind Energy, Hydration Stations, Take Back the Tap, Web Development, and LEED Certification

Brandon Gellis, Graduate Student
Initiatives: Web Development, Graphic Design

Jack Foersterling, Undergraduate Student
Initiatives: Bike Mechanic

Kathryn Saphire, Undergraduate Student
Initiatives: Real Food Challenge/Food Co-op

Mariah Shell
Initiatives: Earth Day Summit, Earth Month Carnival, Bike Share Program

Megan Marshall, Graduate Student
Initiatives: Zero Waste Hockey Games, Campus-Wide Recycling and Composting