Northern Michigan University
PRE-2: Points of Distinction

SHINE is an interdisciplinary hub to improve sustainability-related communication, coordination, and education on campus in order to attract and retain students. The next generation of Wildcats are seeking institutions that commit to sustainability – including environmental, social and economic equity. In a recent campus-wide survey, 62% of students (n = 698) agreed or strongly agreed that sustainability is part of our culture at NMU, but only 48% (n = 541) reported being aware of sustainability efforts on campus. It is time for NMU to demonstrate sustainability leadership in our academic programs and operations. SHINE will increase awareness and coordinate efforts across our campus while engaging students to help build a culture of sustainability at NMU.

NMU's Office of the President has including "Building a Culture of Sustainability" as one of the four main focus areas for the University's strategic plan. Sustainable actions are commonly defined as those that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Most definitions of sustainability emphasize the intersection of environmental protection, economic development and social equity. Thus, a focus on sustainability reinforces other Focus Areas such as Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Rural Roots. Building a Culture of Sustainability will require a comprehensive strategy that infuses sustainability considerations into all university-wide decision-making, curricula and outreach efforts. This coordinated approach builds on existing goals outlined in NMU's 2030 Sustainability Plan and Campus Energy Master Plan, which have been developed in consultation with the Sustainability Advisory Council, the Carbon Neutrality Task Force and the efforts of many students, staff and faculty across campus. Coordinating these efforts will bring NMU's performance in this area to the next level, and will promote NMU's reputation as a regional leader in sustainability.

EcoReps is a student sustainability peer-to-peer education program. They manage the university's Green Fund application process. In 2022 they helped develop a proposal for demonstration solar array. In November 2022 the array was installed and will power most of the SHINE (sustainability hub) building on campus.