Greener Campuses, Stronger Leaders: Lessons from the Sustainable Campus Challenge

Room: 105
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30pm

This session introduces the Sustain OC Foundation Sustainable Campus Challenge, featuring programs, resources, and case studies from partners including The Energy Coalition, OC Waste & Recycling, CSU Fullerton, Moulton Niguel Water District, South Coast AQMD, and OPTERRA Energy Solutions. We’ll showcase the first student cohort and how their work advanced sustainability goals while building skills in leadership and environmental literacy.

In the Challenge, schools form student teams (8–30 students with a faculty advisor) to complete a campus sustainability audit covering energy, water, waste, transportation, and student health. Students take on roles, meet monthly, and receive guidance from Sustain SoCal. After the audit, teams identify two top priorities—at least one from energy, water, waste, or transportation—and in Phase II, create solution plans to address them.

Attendees will learn how this model engages students, builds capacity, and fosters long-term climate action.

People should attend this session to gain a comprehensive understanding of how schools, agencies, and industry partners can collaborate to advance campus sustainability. They’ll discover real-world strategies, tools, and mentorship opportunities that empower students to lead meaningful environmental change. Attendees will leave with practical examples, lessons learned, and clear pathways for engaging in the next Sustainable Campus Challenge—making it a valuable resource for anyone committed to building climate-ready, environmentally responsible campuses.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will:

• Learn about partner organizations and their contributions to sustainability education and student engagement opportunities.
• Identify challenges and solutions in recruiting, mentoring, and supporting student participants in sustainability initiatives.
• Explore ways to participate in future cohorts and access available resources, supports, and mentorship opportunities.

Speakers:

Siria Salas, Program Manager, The Energy Coalition
Chloe Roswell, Director of Programs & Membership, Sustain SoCal Director, Sustain OC Foundation, Sustain OC Foundation

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