Trinity Helps Host Sustainability Conference

Trinity University is a host sponsor for the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education’s (AASHE) 2017 Conference & Expo in San Antonio from Sunday, Oct. 15 to Wednesday, Oct. 18.

With a theme of “Stronger in Solidarity,” AASHE 2017 will focus on how the campus sustainability community can break down walls, build bridges, and continue to make progress toward a healthy and equitable future for all.

“I am confident that this conference will provide participants with a platform to explore innovative solutions to advance sustainability in higher education and the surrounding community,” said AASHE executive director Meghan Fay Zahniser.

Four Trinity students will participate in the Student Summit and present projects. They are:

·  Abigail Bowen (Trinity Bee Alliance)

·  Kristen Rundstein (Eco Allies)

·  Madelyn Gaharan (Aramark dining services internship)

·  Bernardo Traverseri (Costa Rica immersion experience)

Another dozen students, faculty, and staff will attend or present programs about Trinity’s sustainable practices and plans to implement a “green” master plan. The campus will host a tour for conference attendees of the Center for the Sciences and Innovation, and the Trinity University Press will display earth-friendly books at the Expo Hall.

“Trinity University is committed to a balanced and sustainable campus,” says Gordon D. Bohmfalk, director of Campus Planning & Sustainability. “We have a unique opportunity to continue the legacy of architect O'Neil Ford, and build upon the natural aspects of site, focusing on the human implications of design and how landscape, space, and buildings can positively impact our students faculty and staff."

Additional host institutions of the conference are Dallas County Community College District, Texas A&M University – College Station, University of Texas at Austin and University of Texas at San Antonio. Supporting host institutions are Austin Community College District, Baylor University, Texas Regional Alliance for Campus Sustainability, University of Texas at Arlington, and University of the Incarnate Word.