Loyola University Chicago
EN-2: Student Orientation

Sustainability is included prominently in new student orientation. Students and their parents and guests will learn about Loyola’s sustainability initiatives and infrastructure at the welcome session, via educational sessions, during small group discussions, on the campus walking tour, and at the resource fair. Students will receive a reusable Cupanion water bottle at check-in to use at orientation and throughout their time at Loyola, as non-reusable water bottles are not available on-campus. Every time students' refill their water bottle, Cupanion gives clean water to a person in need. Intentionally, very limited paper handouts are provided at orientation, as students and guests are directed to websites to access information and resources. Students and families also participate in a zero-waste picnic to conclude their orientation experience, where the orientation leaders provide information, tips, and support on composting and recycling.

To support sustainability being prominently included in new student orientation, orientation leaders are trained on sustainability initiatives at Loyola. This includes participating in a retreat at our Retreat & Ecology Campus, participating in an education session with the Director of Sustainability, and engaging in a training on effective strategies for composting so that they can facilitate the zero waste picnic at each session and at New Student Convocation and other Welcome Week events.

In addition, required use of recyclable and compostable items is included in our contracts with vendors.

Our graduate, adult and professional students receive a shared orientation resource that addresses sustainability at Loyola.