| Overall Rating | Silver |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 62.28 |
| Liaison | Dave Barbier |
| Submission Date | Nov. 5, 2021 |
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
EN-3: Student Life
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 2.00 |
Molly
McGuire Special Projects Coordinator Office of Sustainability |
Does the institution have an active student group focused on sustainability?:
Name and a brief description of the active student groups focused on sustainability:
UWSP has many student groups that revolve around sustainability, natural resources, the environment, and what we can do to protect the earth and its resources.
The Student Government Association has an Environmental & Sustainability Committee chaired by an E&S Director. SGA maintains a Sustainability Reserve fund that can be used by any student organization or individual on campus for sustainability-related projects.
*Environmental Education and Naturalists Association (EENA) – mission is to promote awareness and understanding of the natural world and its function, promote skills and professionalism in environmental education and interpretation, and promote environmental action. The Earth Week Committee's mission is to organize and implement activities, events and demonstrations (including Earth Week Eco-Fair) for the benefit of students, staff, faculty and the public with the hope of increasing awareness of sustainable ideas and practices.
*Izaak Walton League – mission is to assist in preserving and improving our natural resources and promote student interest with practical experience in resource management techniques.
*Society of Ecological Restoration (SER) – mission is to develop an ecological awareness and assist in the recovery and management of ecological integrity by learning the ecological processes of natural ecosystems through awareness, ecological presentations, and hands-on experiences.
*Soil and Water Conservation Society of America – mission is to promote the development and advancement of the conservation of natural resources including soil, water, forestry and wildlife beneficial to mankind.
*Students for Sustainability (SFS) – mission is to create a means for UWSP students to experience, explore, share, and learn about issues relating to sustainable agriculture and community development.
*Waste Management Society – mission is to provide additional activities in the field of waste management in order to facilitate unity and exchange of experiences and information.
*Wildlife Society – mission is to provide opportunities for better liaison among members, chapters, sections, and the society, evaluate and respond to proposed/enacted societal actions that could affect wildlife/its habitats, encourage professionalism and high standards of scholarship, focus aims/objectives to professional wildlife needs, and encourage communication to improve understanding of resource management sciences.
*350 Stevens Point - has been established to raise awareness of the climate crisis and other environmental issues and to take action for these issues.
*American Water Resources Association - Develop an awareness of water resource issues, employment possibilities and inter-chapter activities to both the university and Stevens Point community. Establish a common meeting ground for those concerned with water resources and provide exposure to career professionals, collection, organization and dissemination of ideas and information about water resources sci. and technology.
*Land Conservation Society - The purpose of this organization will be to assist the North Central Conservancy Trust (NCCT) and other Wisconsin Land Trusts in support of their missions to conserve land.
*Reformation and Improvement of Society and Environment (RISE) - We, the students of the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, in order to invoke the responsibility of the citizens of the world to rise against corruption, injustice and towards the betterment of the earth and its environment, establish Reformation and Improvement of Society and Environment, which is a socio-environmental organization for the people.
*(SWAMP) Students for Wetland Awareness, Management, and Protection - develop an awareness of wetland science issues locally, nationally, and internationally, -promote scientifically sound practices of wetland conservation -provide education on the importance of wetland environments to the UWSP, Stevens Point, and surrounding communities
Does the institution have a garden, farm, community supported agriculture (CSA) or fishery program, or an urban agriculture project where students are able to gain experience in organic agriculture and sustainable food systems?:
A brief description of the gardens, farms, community supported agriculture (CSA) or fishery programs, and/or urban agriculture projects:
The UWSP Campus Garden was created in the spring of 2006 by the Sustainable Agriculture in Communities Society (SACS) and is maintained by SFS (Students for Sustainability) members. SFS utilizes the garden to host workshops on various topics such as canning and composting. The garden is also used as an outdoor classroom to teach students about organic farming principles and alternative farming techniques, such as greenhouse season extension and vermicomposting. The garden’s produce is for sale and is also used for events such as the SFS harvest dinner. Vegetables grown include turnips, kale, swiss chard, onions, peppers, carrots, and tomatoes.
In between the science building houses our campus ethnobiology garden. This is managed by the Ethnobiology student organization and is filled with many native plants. Students and faculty can walk around the area and learn about the naming and uses of many plants.
Some of the student organizations volunteer or encourage their members to volunteer at Farmshed (Farmshed’s mission is to expand the connection between local residents and their food by providing opportunities for participation, education, cooperation, and action to support a local food economy in Central Wisconsin). It is a local garden and meeting place to learn about plants and what we can do to be more aware of where our food comes from. To learn more go to <http://www.farmshed.org/>
The students here also have opportunities to work with Community Supported Agriculture in Central Wisconsin if they have an interest or if their major requires that type of learning. Some clubs take advantage of these opportunities as well, to learn more about local agriculture and help the farmers with a night of work.
Does the institution have a student-run enterprise that includes sustainability as part of its mission statement or stated purpose?:
A brief description of the student-run enterprises:
CPS Café is a unique food service business open to the public. Dietetic students operate the Café and experience all aspects of food service operation and management. CPS Café offers the best natural and organic foods. The menu focuses on healthy eating choices. The food is sourced from sustainable local farms and the café uses sustainable practices in the operation.
The Central Wisconsin Environmental Station (CWES) manages a sustainable garden; produce is used in their dining services operations. CWES also installed a chicken coop to house chickens for on-site egg production.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/cwes/Pages/default.aspx
University Dining Services is a student managed dining program. UDS' guiding principles include: creating a collaborative work environment that educates and engages our student employees; integrates sustainability initiatives that support the environmental mission of the University; prepares enticing food and menus that feed our culinary senses; shares knowledge of food trends and nutrition; commits to excellence, integrity, quality and value; cultivates community and builds lasting relationships. https://www.uwsp.edu/dining/Pages/default.aspx
All of our on-campus vendors must have at least two fair trade items for sale in their establishments and they must be easy to find on the menus thanks to our Fair Trade Committee.
Does the institution have a sustainable investment fund, green revolving fund, or sustainable microfinance initiative through which students can develop socially, environmentally and fiscally responsible investment and financial skills?:
A brief description of the sustainable investment funds, green revolving funds or sustainable microfinance initiatives:
The Green Fund is a program that allows students to lead and take part in large-scale sustainability projects that affect the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. For a project to be considered, it must promote innovative new solutions that address campus sustainability concerns. Required fees for each student are $12 per academic year. The total amounts around $115,000 available for that year. Any remaining money will be carried over to the next school year and segregated fees are approved by a referendum given to the student body every five years.
When a person submits a sustainable project idea to the Green Fund Steering Council all financial information must be given including total cost, ROI, and/or expected profit.
Has the institution hosted a conference, speaker series, symposium, or similar event focused on sustainability during the previous three years that had students as the intended audience?:
A brief description of the conferences, speaker series, symposia, or similar events focused on sustainability:
Annual Earth Week and Eco-Fair
http://thepointeruwsp.com/2020/04/16/the-pointer-earth-week-edition/
Annual College of Natural Resources annual colloquium series
2020 presentations included: "Challenges to Equity and Inclusion in a
Field that Breathes Biodiversity", "It's Kinda Fun to do the Impossible:
Finding Community Abundance Through Sustainable Design",and "Our Natural World: An Indigenous Perspective".
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/WCW/Pages/2019-Spring-Colloquium.aspx
Annual College of Natural Resources Spring Research Symposium-
Undergraduate research presented focused on environmental issues and sustainability.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/StudentSymposium/Pages/default.aspx
2018- UW System Annual Sustainability Conference
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rmDZ2yTeMPZ1ne7ligaQfmuOMc0FRIHB/view
https://www.wisconsin.edu/sustainability/annual-meetings/
2020-Annual Focal Point- Plant Based Food Packaging and Service ware focused on enhanced performance and reduced environmental impact
https://www.uwsp.edu/wist/Pages/default.aspx
2020- Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education Virtual Workshop Series
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/wcee/Pages/Professional-Development.aspx
Has the institution hosted a cultural arts event, installation, or performance focused on sustainability with the previous three years that had students as the intended audience?:
A brief description of the cultural arts events, installations, or performances focused on sustainability:
The Residential Living Association hosts an annual recycled art competition for all students to participate in teams.
The Division of Communication offers study abroad courses that emphasize sustainable tourism and agriculture, and writing courses that address the issues of sustainability in major contemporary goods issues.
Sustainability is woven through many programs on various levels in the College of Professional Studies. From the first doctoral program in educational sustainability in the country, to the popular CPS Café where students create local farm-to-table recipes, to courses focused on sustainable interior design, our students are proactive, resourceful, connected and caring when it comes to sustainability.
Does the institution have a wilderness or outdoors program that follow Leave No Trace principles?:
A brief description of the wilderness or outdoors programs that follow Leave No Trace principles:
There are many opportunities to get outdoors at UWSP. All of the clubs mentioned in the above section have outdoor activities when weather allows. There is an outdoor rental facility on campus where you can check out supplies like kayaks and canoes.
The Schmeeckle Reserve offers the opportunity to hold events in an outdoor location and is great for educational events. https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/schmeeckle/Pages/home.aspx
Becoming an Outdoors Women is a educational program offered to adult women interested in hiking, rifle shooting, backpacking, canoeing, camping, nature photography, and more.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/bow/Pages/Becoming%20an%20Outdoors%20Woman.aspx
Adventure Tour is a program that allows students to take an international trip to explore their natural habitats.
https://www.uwsp.edu/adventuretours/Pages/default.aspx
Adventure Club is a student organization that allows students to explore the United States wilderness. They do activities on campus that get students hiking, biking, camping and all out roughing it. It is relatively inexpensive to do these activities too. Only $20 per semester and money for food to get out in the diverse wilderness. https://spin.uwsp.edu/organization/ARC
All of the Natural Resource majors are required to have some time in an outdoor learning environment. Some courses offered have a section where they walk to an outdoor location because it is the best way to learn about the topics being discussed (especially true for forestry and wildlife majors). Students in this college are required to attend a summer field experience in Northern Wisconsin or Europe. Both of these programs emphasize environmental stewardship and responsibility when outdoors.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr/ssc/Pages/treehavenInfo.aspx
All of our outdoor facilities and program also aim to educate about and follow "Leave No Trace" principles
Has the institution had a sustainability-focused theme chosen for a themed semester, year, or first-year experience during the previous three years?:
A brief description of the sustainability-focused themes chosen for themed semesters, years, or first-year experiences:
The Pathways to Point Wilderness Orientation program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a great opportunity for you to make a positive transition into college life. Through safe and fun outdoor challenges, you will make new friends, increase your confidence and self-esteem, gain social outdoor skills, and experience personal growth.
The Pathways to Point program is based on the seven dimensions of wellness. The Wellness Model suggests that people are more than physical beings; they are "holistic" beings and the different dimensions of our lives must be challenged in order to achieve quality of life.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/cwes/Documents/pdfs/LTP%20Pathways%20Brochure%204.25.18.pdf
Lead the Pack helps provide first-year UWSP students with a smooth transition into the college community. In a fun yet challenging environment, students develop leadership skills, form lasting relationships with peers, and learn about college life from current students. Lead the Pack activities are outdoor-based and engaging, leaving participants ready to meet the school year with new friends, and with confidence.
http://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/cwes/Pages/leadthepack.aspx
Does the institution have a program through which students can learn sustainable life skills?:
A brief description of the programs through which students can learn sustainable life skills:
Office of Sustainability- Winter Workshop Series
Student Organizations educated students on DIY sustainability actions. The 2020 series included DIY laundry soap making, rug making out of old climbing rope, and t-shirt bag making.
https://www.facebook.com/events/2725328057583661
The Student Government Association is hosted a Sustainable Living Week in March 2021. This week hosted daily DIY and tutorials on how to improve living sustainable in your dorm or home.
Does the institution offer sustainability-focused student employment opportunities?:
A brief description of the sustainability-focused student employment opportunities offered by the institution:
Students on campus are employed by the UWSP Office of Sustainability. The students employed by the office help in developing sustainability related activities on campus and updating the Office of Sustainability website to offer all students the opportunity to learn about sustainable campus actions.
Each residence hall government team includes one green advocate (GA) position. Green advocates are advised by their hall director and advised by Cindy Von Gnechten (Residential Living facilities designer). https://www.uwsp.edu/resliving/Pages/progsForResidents/GreenAdvocates.aspx
The Student Government Association has a Environmental & Sustainability Committee chaired by an E&S Director. SGA maintains a Sustainability Reserve fund that can be used by any student organization or individual on campus for sustainability-related projects. https://www.uwsp.edu/sga/Pages/UWSPSGA-EnvironmentalandSustainabiltyIssuesCommittee.aspx
The Center for Land Use Education at UWSP-"CLUE creates learning opportunities for individuals and communities to help them make sound land use decisions that result in an inclusive, equitable and sustainable Wisconsin". CLUE hires College of Natural Resources students to complete state energy, transportation, and land use research and webinars.
https://www.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/clue/Pages/default.aspx
The UWSP Center for Watershed Science and Education hires 10-15 students per year to complete water quality testing for homeowners, campuses, and businesses around the United States. The main mission of the lab is to Supporting watershed stewardship,
- Assisting citizens with lake, river and drinking water quality problems,
- Promoting strategies for water resource protections,
- Providing water quality assessments and support,
- And preparing UW-Stevens Point students for careers as water resource professionals.
Does the institution have a graduation pledge through which students pledge to consider social and environmental responsibility in future job and other decisions?:
A brief description of the graduation pledge(s):
A brief description of other co-curricular sustainability programs and initiatives that do not fall into one of the above categories:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.