Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Reports3.amazonaws.com/lvc-www/files/resources/sac-annual-report-2015... · Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Report ... See Appendix

Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Report

2015–2016

Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Report 2015–2016

i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sustainability Advisory Committee 2 Sustainability Mission Statement 2 Summary of 2015-16 Activities and Recommended Action Items 3 Recommended Sustainability Committee Agenda for 2016-17 6 APPENDIX A: 2015-16 Carbon Inventory Summary 7 APPENDIX B: Earth Days 2016 Schedule 12 APPENDIX C: Earth Days Oratorical Contest 16 APPENDIX D: Sustainability Fast Facts Poster 20 APPENDIX E: Sustainability Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes 21


2

SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Committee Members Co-Chairs

Michael Schroeder, co-chair, Associate Professor of History Michael Zeigler, co-chair, Director of Technology and User Support

Members

William Allman, General Manager of Metz Culinary Management Landis Brown, Retail Manager, Metz Culinary Associates Gregory Buckley, Associate Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies. Will Delavan, Assistant Professor of Economics Marcus Horne, Campus Chemical and Environmental Coordinator Donald Santostefano, Senior Director of Facilities Management Kshama Harpanker, Assistant Professor of Economics Estelle Ruppert, Adjunct Instructor in Science Education Michelle A. Biever, Assistant Director of the College Store Victoria L. Trostle, Director of Service Response Operations for Facilities Services Rebecca A. Urban, Assistant Professor of Biology Jay D. Lohman, Residential Life Area Coordinator

Student Members Chase Yetter ’17, Sustainability Data Intern Ian McGinnis ’17, Sustainability Data Intern Kristen Doverspike ’17, Communications Intern Victoria Gluszko ’16, Student Government Representative

MISSION STATEMENT FOR SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Mission and Planning

The current mission of the Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) includes the following points: To this end, the College, with the direct support of the Sustainability Advisory Committee, will work to:

Facilitate the establishment of academic courses and other curricular and co-curricular programs related to environmental sustainability.

Offer advice and have a seat at the table regarding the planning and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices in our facilities, operations, and capital projects, and in the campus master planning process.

Work to raise the environmental and sustainability awareness of all members of the campus community through curriculum, programs, special events and initiatives, and through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on the College’s energy and resource use and overall carbon footprint.

Foster environmental stewardship and encourage responsible consumption.


3

SUMMARY OF ACTIVITIES AND RECOMMENDED ACTION ITEMS

The year began with a Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) Open Meeting in September of 2015. Members of the committee reported to the campus community the activities of the previous year and sought input for future projects.

2015 - 16 Activities:

Earth Days 2016 Becky Urban led the Earth Days Planning Committee, working with the SAC and other volunteers. Earth Days activities took place throughout the month of April, concluding with the President’s Climate Commitment signing ceremony on Earth Day, which also served as a part of the school’s Valleypalooza spring arts and music weekend. Some this year’s activities included:

Panel discussions and presentations on topics like sustainable agriculture and recycling

A tour of a student-led green roof installation on the roof of Yuhas Commons

A trash collage and fairy ring art installations

Sustainability Oratorical Contest See Appendix B for the full Earth Days 2016 schedule. Oratorical Contest

Students were encouraged to write speeches answering the question: “Explain a global environmental issue, and discuss how our local behaviors and actions contribute to it. What are the best ways to address this issue, in your view?” Finalists were chosen to present their speeches on April 6 for the chance to win an iPad Mini (1st place), a $100 College Store gift card (2nd place), or a $50 College Store gift card (3rd place). Abbey Mosior ’16 was the 2016 first-place winner.

See Appendix C for the 2016 Sustainability Oratorical Contest rules. Student Government

The SAC partnered with Student Government to identify a student representative—Victoria Gluszko ’16—on the committee to help bridge the gap between sustainability initiatives and student-run activities.

Sustainability Fast Facts

The comprehensive list of 25 fast facts from the 2015 school year were transformed into an infographic poster as a marketing piece for various campus events.

See Appendix D for the 2016 Sustainability Fast Facts poster. University Presidents Climate Commitment


4

After careful consideration, the Committee recommended the President sign the Second Nature Climate Commitment to commit the College to being carbon neutral at some point in the future. After discussion with the College’s Senior Staff, a signing ceremony was held on Earth Day, April 22, 2016 where the SAC, trustees, and the student body were present. The SAC has been charged with the planning for and implementing of the Commitment.

Recommended Action Items:

The following is a list of recommendations from the 2014-2015 Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Report to shape the committee’s 2015–2016 agenda. Following each item is a listing of activities and initiatives that correspond to the recommendation.

Recommended Agenda Item: Mission Update Review the Mission of the SAC with the intention of strengthening support of the College’s Envisioned Future Strategic Plan.

Outcomes: The Committee reviewed and updated the Committee’s mission, which is now as follows:

1. Facilitate the establishment of academic courses and other curricular and co-curricular programs related to environmental sustainability.

2. Offer advice and have a seat at the table regarding the planning and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices in our facilities, operations, and capital projects, and in the campus master planning process.

3. Work to raise the environmental and sustainability awareness of all members of the campus community through curriculum, programs, special events and initiatives, and through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on the College’s energy and resource use and overall carbon footprint.

4. Foster environmental stewardship and encourage responsible consumption.

Recommended Agenda Item: CMACS Work with the Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability to develop new sustainability-related initiatives, programming and curriculum at LVC.

Outcomes: Rebecca Urban proposed a new environmental science major to help new and current students have a new opportunity for fields in environmental work. This proposal will be sent to the faculty for approval in Fall of 2016.

Recommended Agenda Item: Marketing

Improve the communication of sustainability initiatives and results by working with the Office

of Marketing and Communications to implement a newly revised SAC Communications Intern

position.


5

Outcomes: The Committee brought Kristen Doverspike ’17 on as the 2015-16 Communications Intern, and she acted as a liaison between the SAC and the Office of Marketing & Communications. She handled revising the sustainability website, creating marketing materials and social media content, and writing press releases.

Recommended Agenda Item: Environmental Club Explore opportunities to work more closely with the newly formed student Environmental Club for developing and implementing sustainability initiatives.

Outcomes:

Earth Week provided many opportunities for the Committee to work with the Environmental Club. Collaboration with the club when it came to the Climate Commitment proved to be essential for student participation at the signing ceremony on Earth Day. The Committee decided to continue its relationship with the Environmental Club through the 2016-2017 school year.


6

RECOMMENDED SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE AGENDA FOR 2016–2017

1. Lead the implementation of the President’s Climate Commitment according to Second Nature's timeline and in support of the College’s Strategic Focus Area: Achieving Sustainability.

2. Continue to explore environmental and sustainability curriculum opportunities, e.g., environmental studies, in support of the College’s Strategic Focus Area: Graduating World-Ready Students.

3. Use the President’s Innovation Grant to implement new initiatives such as Student Ecology Representatives (Eco Reps) and to research the feasibility of implementing currently unused sustainability technologies in support of the College’s Strategic Focus Area: Achieving Sustainability.

4. Explore opportunities to work more closely with the student Environmental Club for developing and implementing sustainability initiatives in support of the College’s Strategic Focus Area: Graduating World-Ready Students.


7

APPENDIX A: 2015–2016 CARBON INVENTORY

During the 2016-2017 school year, a carbon inventory was completed for the 2015-2016 fiscal year using the web-based Campus Carbon Calculator (Carbon Management and Analysis Platform (CarbonMAP) powered by Sightlines.) The application breaks down emissions into three categories: Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3. Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions that come from sources that are owned and/or controlled by Lebanon Valley College. Scope 1 emissions for LVC result from fossil fuel and fertilizer usage. The campus uses natural gas and distillate oil for heating buildings with most buildings using natural gas. Diesel fuel and unleaded gasoline used for running the college fleet also fall into the Scope 1 category. Refrigerants and other chemicals would be another source of Scope 1 emissions, but the college ensures that these chemicals are properly cared for and not released as emissions. Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from sources that are not owned or operated by Lebanon Valley College. However, these sources are directly linked to the energy used by the campus. While the College is not directly responsible for these emissions, the College requires this energy to operate and is responsible for the demand. For Lebanon Valley College, purchased electricity is the only source of scope 2 emissions. Scope 3 emissions are all other emissions. These emissions are typically considered as “optional” and are harder to classify. Either these emissions are the result of direct financing or encouragement of the College, but are not from sources owned or operated by LVC. Some examples of this would be study abroad travel and faculty, staff and student commuting. The responsibility of these emissions is unclear but must be carefully monitored in order to ensure the emissions are not counted twice. During this reporting year, we have decided to account for sports travel via bus and van. This has resulted in a slight increase in Scope 3 emissions as well as a more accurate carbon footprint.

Carbon Inventory Results Summary: Before any mitigation strategies, total emissions from all three scopes were 4,742 MTeCO2, or Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalents. Figure 1, below, shows the breakdown of total emissions by scope. Figure 2 provides a more detailed breakdown of emissions by sources. Due to the College purchasing 100% wind-generated electricity, Scope 2 emissions have been completely eliminated.


8

Figure 1: 2015-2016 Gross GHG Emissions by Scope

Scope 145.34%

Scope 20.00%

Scope 354.66%

2015-2016

Scope 1

Scope 2

Scope 3


9

Figure 2: 2015-2016 Emissions by Source

The most significant Scope 1 emissions, producing 2,020.26 MTeCO2, come from Stationary Combustion, which includes distillate oil and natural gas mainly used for heating campus buildings; this number is slightly lower compared to last year, but there is no significant change. Approximately 93.67% of Scope 1 emissions is attributed to Stationary Combustion and also makes up 42.60% of total emissions. Overall Scope 1 emissions made up 45.34% of overall emissions and are equivalent to 2,149.94 MTeCO2, slightly lower than last year but actually higher relative to overall emissions. Scope 2 emissions consist solely of purchased electricity, which makes up 0 % of total emissions. In the past, the majority of our mitigation strategies were aimed at decreasing the electricity emissions since it was such a significant part of LVC’s carbon footprint and the college was extremely successful. Scope 3 emissions contribute 54.66% of total emissions or 2,592.36 MTeCO2. The main contributor to Scope 3 emissions is student, faculty, and staff commuting making up 81.39% of Scope 3 emissions, with 2,109.79 MTeCO2, and 44.49% of total emissions, lower than last year significantly.

Stationary Combustion

42.60%

Mobile Combustion

2.73%

Purchased Electricity

0.00%

Commuting44.49%

Study Abroad7.00%

Solid Waste2.20%

Office Paper0.67%

2015-2016


10

Figure 3: Total Emissions Reductions from 2008-2016

Table 1: Reduction Percentages from 2008-2014 by Scope/Source

Source 2014-2015

Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Fiscal Year

Increase/ Decrease

Scope 1 Other On-Campus Stationary 2,032.36 2,020.26 -0.60%

Direct Transportation 138.66 129.69 -6.47% Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 0 0 0.00%

Scope 3 Employee/Student Commuting 2,896.83 2,109.79 -27.17%

Study Abroad Air Travel 368.98 332 -10.02%

Paper 26.63 31.54 18.44%

Totals Scope 1 2,171.03 2,149.94 -0.97%

Scope 2 0 0 0.00%

Scope 3 3,635.89 2,592.36 -28.70%

All Scopes/Total 5,806.91 4,742.30 -18.33%

10,89710,460 10,417 10,363

5,1966,094

5,806

4,742

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

2008-20092009-20102010-20112011-20122012-20132013-20142014-20152015-2016

MTeCO2

MTeCO2


11

Conclusion:

Total emissions decreased by 1,064.61 MTeCO2 from the previous fiscal year, an 18.33% decrease, and spread around all categories of emissions. The largest contributing changes were in commuting. We made changes to our calculations for these to increase accuracy over the last two years, which may explain the decrease. Other than commuting, all categories are near their previous levels, showing accuracy in reporting methods. Overall, there is a significant difference in overall carbon emissions compared to the 2014-2015 fiscal year. This difference is a noticeable decrease, which is favorable.


12

APPENDIX B: EARTH DAYS 2016 SCHEDULE

The Earth Days Planning Committee offered a month-long schedule of events for Earth Days 2016 at LVC. It kicked off and ended with Spring cleanups at Quittie Creek, including everything from contests to panels to an unveiling of the College’s new green roof in between. A pivotal moment in this year’s Earth Day events on April 22 was when President Lewis E. Thayne signed the President’s Climate Commitment, pledging future carbon neutrality for the College.

Quittie Creek Spring Cleanup April 2 | 12 p.m. (parking lot of Yogeys Miniature Golf & Ice Cream Parlor) As part of "Project Clean Stream" sponsored by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay (http://cleanstream.allianceforthebay.org/), volunteers will gather in the parking lot of Yogeys Miniature Golf & Ice Cream Parlor, just off Route 422 on South 22nd St. (behind Commerce Bank and Taco Bell and directly across from the Lebanon Valley Mall), divide into teams of 3-4 persons each, and fan out in the woods along the banks of Quittapahilla Creek to pick up trash and hunt for plastic artifacts suitable for display in the Quittapahilla Creek Garbage Museum. Trash bags will be provided. Contact: Michael Schroeder ([email protected])

Global Chocolate Trade Presentation April 6 | 6 p. m. (Bishop Library Atrium) Dr. Nadine Garner is an associate professor in the Psychology Department at Millersville University, but also aids the University’s Civic and Community Engagement model by serving as Director of the Center for Sustainability and is the chair of the Sustainability Committee. Dr. Garner has assisted in planning multiple Stewards of Sustainability Conferences at the University, as well as playing a key role in training the Residential Life staff on matters of sustainability as it relates to their programming model. One of Dr. Garner’s greatest passions in regards to environmental concerns is the global chocolate trade and its impact on humans in third world countries. Dr. Garner will explain how purchasing chocolate without a Fair-Trade logo on the wrapper could mean you are contributing to the enslavement of children worldwide, while simultaneously damaging the delicate ecosystems of the planet. She will then serve as one of the judges for the 2016 Sustainability Oratorical Contest. Contact: Rebecca Urban ([email protected])

Sustainability Oratorical Contest

April 6 | 7 p.m. (Bishop Library Atrium) Interested students will submit a speech manuscript and bibliography by March 4. Judges will review the manuscripts and choose the top six contestants to give a 6-8 min speech on April 6. The 2016 topic is “Explain a global environmental issue, and discuss how our local behaviors and actions contribute to it. What are the best ways to address this issue, in your view?” Contest rules Contact: Rebecca Urban ([email protected])

mailto:[email protected]


http://www.lvc.edu/sustainability/documents/sustainabilityoratoricalcontestrules2016.pdf



13

This year's winners are as follows: 1. First prize: Abby Mosior '16, Music Education major 2. Second: Steve Mazur '19, Mathematics major 3. Third: Katelyn Gingrich '18, Self-Designed major

Bus Trip to Longwood Gardens

April 12 | 10 a.m. (will meet the bus behind Chapel) Join the Plant Diversity class on their field trip to Longwood Gardens. The bus ride down and back is free, but you would be responsible for your own lunch, and paying the entrance fee ($5 for students, $20 non-students). The bus will be leaving LVC at 10:00 am, and should be back on campus between 5:30 – 6:00 pm. There are a limited number of seats, please contact Dr. Rebecca Urban to reserve a spot. Contact: Rebecca Urban ([email protected])

Cuewe-Pehelle Installation Art

Week of April 18 (Cuewe-Pehelle Sculpture Garden outside Bishop Library) In commemoration of Earth Day, and in the effort to raise public awareness about an insidious problem locally and globally, Lebanon Valley College’s beloved green maiden statue Cuewe-Pehelle (in front of Bishop Library) will be adorned with dangling bits of colorful plastic trash fished from Quittapahilla Creek. Contact: Michael Schroeder ([email protected])

Trash Collage

April 18 | 12–1 p.m. (Mund College Center) In mid-December 2015, Jay Lohman began picking-up trash that he found on the ground while walking his dog. By early February 2016, less than two months later, he had enough trash collected to make a striking display. Every item on the collage was found improperly discarded on the ground, both on-campus or neighboring Annville Township streets and sidewalks. Though if placed in a trash can, many of these items would still be improperly discarded. Most materials can be recycled, upcycled, reused, or repurposed. Choose before you use; consider before you litter. Contact: Jay Lohman ([email protected])

Let’s Talk Trash!

April 19 | 11 a.m. (Miller Chapel 101) Michael Schroeder, executive director of the Quittapahilla Creek Garbage Museum in Annville, Pa., will offer a broad-ranging presentation on the systemic contamination of Pennsylvania’s waterways and the world’s oceans with millions of tons of plastic trash, using Lebanon County’s Quittapahilla Creek as emblematic of today’s throwaway society and an ongoing global process. Contact: Michael Schroeder ([email protected])






14

Panel on Sustainable Agriculture

April 19 | 6–8 p.m. (Zimmerman) Farming in Lebanon County generates nearly $350 million of revenue each year. Four local farmers will discuss the challenges of producing healthy food using methods that are both environmentally and economically sustainable. Contact: Karen Feather ([email protected])

Sustainable Lunch Hours

April 20 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. (Dining Hall, Mund College Center) Metz invites sustainable vendors to campus during the lunch hour, offering samples and information to students, faculty, and staff. The lunch menu will feature 90 percent locally produced and/or sustainable products. Contact: Landis Brown ([email protected])

Cooking with Insects

April 20 | 1 p.m.–3 p.m. (NG 130) Join Dr. Unger’s Human Nutrition class to learn about the environmental and nutritional benefits of adding insects to your diet. Lancaster County Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez will give an informative presentation, and then prepare some insects for people to try. There are a limited number of spots, please contact Dr. Rebecca Urban to reserve a seat. Contact: Rebecca Urban ([email protected])

Campus Green Roof Tour

April 21 | 11 a.m. (Yuhas Commons) Student Cooper Gerus will give a tour of the green roof being installed on Yuhas Commons. He will discuss the construction process, irrigation methods, and plant choices. This is a student run project that has received assistance from facilities services. The green roof will supply produce to the dining hall, inspire LVC community members to practice sustainability, and reduce energy costs for the building. Contact: Rebecca Urban ([email protected])

Electronics Recycling

April 22 | 10 a.m.–1 p.m. (north side of Lynch) College students and employees can drop off certain electronics for recycling. A collection truck will be set up on the north side of Lynch off Sheridan Ave. If you have any questions about whether an item is recyclable, please contact Free Geek Penn at 717-721-2494 or [email protected], or email the college at [email protected].






15

Contact: Mike Zeigler ([email protected])

Earth Day Celebration and Climate Commitment Signing Ceremony

April 22 | 12:15 p.m. (Mund Patio) (Rain Location: Mund Dining Room) President Thayne, members of the Board of Trustees, students, faculty and staff will celebrate Earth Day by singing the Second Nature Climate Commitment, formerly knowns as the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment, requiring LVC to become carbon neutral in the future. It requires the College to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while developing innovative solutions to limit our impact on the environment. Contact: Mike Zeigler ([email protected])

Day of Caring Spring Cleanup at Quittie Creek Nature Park

April 23 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m. (meet at the main entrance to Quittie Creek Nature Park off Bachman Road next to the Swingholm Pedestrian Bridge) This annual Spring Cleanup is sponsored by the Lebanon County United Way and the Quittie Creek Nature Park Committee of the Friends of Old Annville. Community volunteers will divide into crews, and help spread mulch along the trails, pick up trash, remove invasive species, and spruce up the Nature Park for the coming summer. Contact: Michael Schroeder ([email protected])

Fairy Ring Sculpture by Karen Beall TBA (Academic Quad)

On a warm day in April, a magical, mysterious and symbolic fairy ring will appear on the academic quad. Mushrooms are nature’s recyclers. They take organic debris and turn it in to soil. However, this fairy ring is different. It is created out of plastic lids. It will never recycle but it will break down into tiny microplastics and various chemicals that harm the soil and the surrounding waterways. Created by Karen Beall, Adjunct Instructor of Ceramics and Sculpture with the assistance of some students. Contact: Karen Beall ([email protected])


mailto:[email protected])


mailto:[email protected])


16

APPENDIX C: ORATORICAL CONTEST RULES AND JUDGING CRITERIA

Sustainability Oratorical Contest Rules

2016 Contest Topic: Explain a global environmental issue, and discuss how our local behaviors and actions contribute to it. What are the best ways to address this issue, in your view?

1. Speeches should be written based on the contest topic and must be original work. At least one aspect of the speech must address how to engage the LVC student population in facing the issue at hand. All facts stated in the speech must be referenced, written in the manuscript and orally cited during the delivery of the speech in the final round. The written manuscript should be accompanied by a bibliography.

2. Speeches should be 5-7 minutes in length. Contestants will be penalized if they are outside of this time limit.

3. Preliminary Phase: Contestants should submit their speech manuscript and bibliography to Dr. Rebecca Urban ([email protected]), by Friday, March 4, 2016. This is the preliminary phase of the contest. Judges will review the manuscripts and choose the top six contestants, plus one alternate, using the below judging criteria to present during the final round. Contestants will be notified with the results of the preliminary phase by March 15, 2016.

4. Final Round: Selected contestants will be given a critique of their material from the judges’ panel, allowing for adjustments to be made before the final round, held on Wednesday, April 6, 6-8 p.m. Contestants should choose an LVC faculty or staff member as their “coach” for the oral portion of the contest.

5. Judging Criteria: 1. Preliminary Phase: Refer to the attached “Written Manuscript Score Sheet” for

complete details. Judging will include the purpose statement, content of the message, and ability to provide an appropriate recommendation.

2. Final Round: Refer to the attached “Oratorical Judging Criteria” for complete details. Judging will include the ability to capture the audience’s attention, overall organization and closing, depth of content and topic, and use of vocal characteristics.

6. The top three speeches will be awarded, determined by the judges. Decisions by the judges’ panel are final. Prizes include:

1st place- iPad Mini 2nd place- $100 to College Store 3rd place- $50 to College Store

7. Winning speeches become the shared property of the College and the student author and

may be used for future environmental sustainability outreach/purposes.


17

WRITTEN MANUSCRIPT JUDGING CRITERIA PRELIMINARY PHASE SUSTAINABILITY ORATORICAL CONTEST

Criteria Effectively Accomplished 10 8

Partially accomplished 64 Not accomplished 20

Overall Quality

Report reflects a thorough understanding of context, audience, and purpose that is responsive to the assigned task and focuses all elements of the work.

Demonstrates some awareness of context, audience, purpose, and to the assigned task (e.g., begins to show awareness of audience's perceptions and assumptions).

Demonstrates minimal attention to context, audience, purpose, and to the assigned task.

Introduction, Purpose Statement, and Audience Engagement

Quickly engages the reader with a compelling introduction. Accurately defines fundamental problem statement or hypothesis as basis of examination.

Misinterpreted fundamental problem statement or developed hypothesis which is inconsistent with assignment. Lacks ability to appropriately engage the reader early in the report.

No identification of fundamental problem statement as basis of examination, or provides hypothesis completely inconsistent with assignment. Does not engage audience in the introduction.

Conclusion

Develops specific conclusion unique from recommendation, and supported by evidence chosen from examined events.

Hints at conclusion supported by evidence, but confuses conclusion with recommendation.

Offers no specific conclusion, nor evidence to support examination.

Recommendation

Develops specific recommendation(s) unique from conclusion; reasonable, realistic, and with clearly stated benefit for specific audience.

Hints at recommendations, yet combines conclusion with recommendation or confuses with concluding comments.

Offers no specific recommendation, nor benefit for any identified audience.

Writing Mechanics

Uses graceful language that skillfully communicates meaning to readers with clarity and fluency, and is virtually error-free.

Uses language that generally conveys meaning to readers with clarity, although writing may include some writing, mechanics, or syntax errors.

Uses language that impedes meaning because of errors in usage. Extensive and persistent errors in spelling and/or writing mechanics which suggest limited proofreading.


18

ORATORICAL JUDGING CRITERIA SUSTAINABILITY ORATORICAL CONTEST

Criteria Effectively Accomplished 54 Partially accomplished 32 Not accomplished 10

Attention Getter

Effective use of attention getting strategy (quote, question, story, etc.) to capture listeners’ attention. Initial spoken lines delivered from memory/practice; not read.

Use of relevant attention getting strategy, but did not seem to adequately capture audience attention and/or lead to desired outcome. Initial spoken lines clearly delivered, but with reference to note cards or visual.

No attention getting strategy was evident. No clear or relevant connection to topic and/or report purpose. Fully read opening lines without looking at the audience.

Connection w/Audience

Clearly stated the relevance of topic to audience needs and interests. Audience drawn into the conversation with repeated inference of application to their interests.

Topic seems somewhat relevant to audience, but not explicitly stated. Use of self-pronouns (I, me, my) highly pronounced.

Topic seems irrelevant to audience needs and interests. No attempt made to connect topic to targeted audience. Talk dominated by overuse of self- pronouns.

Organization & Closing

Uses effective organizational pattern with introduction, middle, and conclusion. Smooth and coherent transitions lead to a decisive and specific ending. Leaves no question that the presentation has concluded. Meets timing guidelines in both minimum and maximum lengths.

General structure/organization seems adequate but some blurring between main points. Logical flow, but lacks smooth transitions. Met timing guidelines for minimum and maximum. Uncertain ending or conclusion.

Lack of structure. Ideas are not coherent and transitions are forced or blurred. Difficult to identify introduction, body, and conclusion. Did not meet required timing guidelines. Presentation simply stops without definitive conclusion.

Subject Knowledge and Fulfillment of Purpose

Depth of content reflects knowledge and understanding of topic. Main points adequately substantiated with timely, relevant and sufficient support. Accurate explanation of key concepts. Clearly understood, explained and accomplished purpose of the report and presentation.

Provides some support for main points, but needed to elaborate further with explanations, examples, descriptions, etc. Support is relevant, but not timely. Seemed to have some confusion or uncertainty of purpose, but attempted to provide cohesive and coherent evidence.

Provides irrelevant or no support. Explanations of concepts are inaccurate or incomplete. Listeners gain little knowledge from presentation. Presentation lacked a defined purpose, or stated purpose was inconsistent with the assignment.


19

Conclusion

Talk delivers logical and substantiated conclusion, justified by evidence which is well-chosen and appropriate to the overall report purpose.

Conclusion specifically articulated, yet weakly linked to or supported by evidence presented within the context of the presentation.

No conclusion offered, despite presence (or absence) of specific points of evidence.

Recommendation

Report presentation contains clearly identified, reasonable, and well- articulated recommendation(s), appropriately directed to the audience and specifically linked to initial identification of report purpose

Recommendation offered which is linked to initial report purpose, yet lacks compelling rationale and/or reasonable application.

No recommendation offered as concluding evaluation of tasks associated with the full set of assignments.

Eye contact

Consistently and effectively uses eye contact to establish rapport with audience. Inconspicuous use of speaker notes and effective use of speaking eye-to-eye to establish an expanded zone of interaction.

Conspicuous use of speaker notes. Seems disengaged from audience for noticeable periods of time. Clear effort to end statements by speaking eye-to- eye, yet scanning/panning more apparent.

Extensive portions of presentation read from notes/visuals. Avoids eye contact with audience. Only occasional and sporadic glances. Frequent glances either up at ceiling or down at floor.

Voice, Balance, Posture, Appearance

Natural variation of vocal characteristics (rate, pitch, volume, tone) in Standard English to heighten interest and convey meaning. No distracting movements. Balanced delivery. Did not lean on support structures. Business casual attire.

Limited variation of vocal characteristics. Use of rate, pitch, volume and tone seemed inconsistent at times. Tendency to cross legs, cross arms, hold hands behind back, etc., however clear effort to correct when noticed. Limited leaning. Casual attire short of business appropriate.

Monotone or inappropriate variation of vocal characteristics. Inconsistent with verbal message. Persistent use of distracting movements; hands in pockets; consistent leaning on support structures with no effort to correct. Attire falls short of appropriate business casual.

Language (Use of non-words & fillers)

Appropriate pronunciation, enunciation, and articulation. Lack of noticeable vocalized fillers.

Few noticeable errors in pronunciation, enunciation and articulation. Minimal use of vocalized fillers.

Excessive fluency errors interfered with message comprehension. Excessive use of vocalized fillers.

Overall Quality

The talk managed to clearly communicate all necessary information and provide the audience with sufficient take-away points to accomplish the speaker’s purpose.

The talk accomplished the goal even with a conspicuous absence of supporting materials.

The talk clearly suffered in both content and conveyance of meaning.


20

APPENDIX D: SUSTAINABILITY FAST FACTS

Taking the fast facts that were gathered in the 2014-2015 year, the SAC communications intern created the following infographic poster to serve as a marketing piece at various sustainability events.


21

APPENDIX G: SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

September 28, 2015

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Marcus Horne, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Ian McGinnis, Chase Yetter, Victoria Gluszko, Jay Lohman, Vicky Trostle, Michelle Biever, Karen Feather, Landis Brown, Kshama Hapankar,

1. Introduction of members

2. April 28, 2015 meeting minutes will be available for review at the September 28th meeting.

3. Organizational Topics (Ziegler) a. Bob Valgenti and Victoria Gluszko were nominated as Campus Sustainability Champions for

PERC (PA Green Colleges).

4. Sustainability Advisory Committee memorandum (Schroeder) a. The purpose is to refocus the Sustainability Advisory Committee from data collection to

accomplishing sustainability initiatives. b. The Sustainability Advisory Committee should be defined as a Special Purpose Committee. c. It is proposed that the budget of the committee be increase to support sustainability

initiatives. (Zeigler) d. The degree of data collection by the committee was discussed and left for review for the

following committee meeting. (Hapankar)

5. Student Government, Environmental Club, and Residential life. (Ian McGinnis, Chase Yetter) a. Karen Feather was updated on the past work performed by the data interns. b. The history of the Sustainability Advisory Committee was discussed. (Zeigler) c. Included topics were the College’s ongoing collection of carbon footprint data, and the

implementation of new sustainability based courses.

6. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability, CMACS (Feather) a. Web site is up at www.lvc.edu/CMACS; working on Facebook page b. 5 Sustainability Interns have been placed in Lebanon County municipalities c. Co-sponsored September 19 International Coastal Cleanup day in Lebanon d. Co-sponsoring October 7 film “The End of the Line” on LVC campus e. Lebanon County Clean Water Alliance

ii. Submitted comments to draft PAG-13 NPDES permit iii. Submitted grant application with Center for Watershed Protection for technical

expertise to prepare comprehensive water resources plan for Lebanon County iv. Students are preparing educational materials on MS4

f. Partnership with PA Municipal League for Sustainable PA certification program ii. Victoria Gluszko completed summer internship iii. Planned conference and regional training sessions delayed by budget impasse

g. Submitted comments to DEP on Clean Power Plan h. Meeting tomorrow with ASSETS of Lancaster

http://www.lvc.edu/CMACS


22

i. Meeting with Esri on October 2 to discuss serving as “living laboratory” j. Lebanon Rotary presentation on October 27

7. Earth Days Planning (Urban)

a. Becky asked for volunteers for the Earth Days Subcommittee.

8. Facilities Services Update (Trostle)

a. The 2015 spring residence hall move out require an additional 80 hours from previous years.

b. The College once again had a large quantity of township waste that needed to be hauled away and disposed of at the College’s expense.

c. The fall 2015 move in yielded 48,000lbs of cardboard. d. Facilities introduced the idea of a new composter for food waste. This new initiative will

require further discussion.

9. Student Sustainability Topics (Lohman, Gluszko) a. Student government proposed the idea of Eco-reps, students in each dorm teaching about

sustainability. b. A sustainable agriculture project was introduced with tentative funding from an Innovative

Fund Grant. (Gluszko) This topic was left for future discussion. c. Terracycle is still continuing with the hope of expansion once student Eco-reps are working

with Student Life. (Lohman)

10. Dining Services Updates a. Mug give away b. Green contain c. Post-consumer waste was higher than normal. This is anticipated to decline with

education and incentives. d. Bins provided at spring move out helped return a lot of dining hall utensils, plates, and cup

that would have been taken or discarded.

11. Tree Campus USA (Feather) a. Information is being gathered and the final paperwork is being completed.

12. New Initiative (Zeigler)

a. The campus does not currently have recycling containers present on campus outside of buildings.

b. The recycling containers would need to be purchased. This topic was left for future discussion. (Trostle)


23

October 12, 2015

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Landis Brown, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Chase Yetter, Kristen Doverspike, Victoria Gluszko, Michelle Biever. Guest: Jan Seidel

5. Introduction of members. Karen Feather introduced Jan Seidel, a German Ph.D. candidate studying attitudes toward sustainability. He will be on LVC’s campus until mid-November.

6. Minutes of meeting of September 28, 2015 were approved. 7. Mission and 2015-16 goals of the Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) (Schroeder)

a. The mission was revised as follows: i. Facilitate the establishment of academic courses and other curricular and co-

curricular programs related to environmental sustainability. ii. Offer advice and have a seat at the table regarding the planning and

implementation of environmentally sustainable practices in our facilities, operations, and capital projects, and in the campus master planning process.

iii. Work to raise the environmental and sustainability awareness of all members of the campus community through curriculum, programs, special events and initiatives, and through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on the College’s energy and resource use and overall carbon footprint.

iv. Foster environmental stewardship and encourage responsible consumption. b. The goals were identified as follows:

i. Review mission of SAC ii. Work with the Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS)

iii. Improve communication of sustainability initiatives iv. Research peer institutions v. Explore opportunities to work with the Environmental Club

vi. Develop a plan for assessing sustainability activities vii. Develop a forum for gathering information on campus activities

8. Student Intern Updates (Yetter, Doverspike) a. Chase Yetter noted that student government would like water bottle filling stations in

residential halls, and that the summer 2016 renovation of Mary Green provides an opportunity to start. Jay Lohman agreed to talk to Greg Krikorian about including a station in the renovation.

b. Kristen Doverspike discussed her work to improve the visual appeal of the SAC web site and showed the graphic for fast facts about sustainability at LVC. There was discussion about adding information about each course which includes a component related to sustainability.

9. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) a. Sustainability Interns -- Outstanding reviews for 5 fall interns; call for sponsorship of

spring interns to go out soon. Lebanon City intern Kelly Jacobs will participate in presentation on CMACS to the Lebanon Rotary on October 27.

b. Course Development grants – Availability of $12,000 for faculty to enhance or develop courses related to sustainability announced at October 1 faculty professional meeting. Email with details to go out shortly.


24

c. GIS – Potential partnership with ESRI to develop academic curricula for undergraduate and professional development program was discussed, beginning in early 2016.

d. PERC conference – DCNR announced paid internships that could lead to permanent jobs. DEP Secretary encouraged greater collaboration with PA’s Green Colleges; he noted that budget cuts have weakened the agency. PERC will be sponsoring a conference on April 4, 2016 in Harrisburg focused on the Clean Power Plan.

e. Tree Campus USA – Exploring opportunity to apply for Arbor Day Foundation designation with the help of Kevin Yeiser, Director of Grounds.

f. Green Ribbon School – application deadline December 7. 10. Earth Days Planning (Urban)

a. Theme is agriculture. b. Film documentary – exploring Cowspiracy, Food Inc., or Fresh c. Victoria Gluszko to present on E.A.T. d. Cooking demonstration on edible insects e. Oratorical contest f. Mike Schroeder to give presentation on Rivers of Garbage, possibly hold garbage art

contest. g. Tour of green roof being installed on Yuhas Commons. h. Metz to hold week-long program on food sustainability.

11. Facilities Service Update – no member of the Facilities staff was able to attend. 12. Student Sustainability Topics (Gluszko)

a. Rebecca Whalen is writing a proposal to establish hydroponic farming on campus. b. Victoria Gluszko and Rebecca Whalen are working with Jay Lohman to establish Eco-

Reps in each residential hall. c. Victoria noted that Facilities is exploring the use of solar power trash compactors to be

installed around campus. 13. Dining Service Update (Brown)

a. Landis Brown noted that he is working on a composting proposal with Bob Valgenti and his E.A.T. students

b. The token system for rewarding clean plates is working well, but there has been an increase in food waste.

c. He is working with Kshama Harpankar on understanding the full costs of food served on campus in terms of cost and time of transportation.

14. New business a. There was discussion about forming subcommittees to more fully explore particular

issues, such as recycling. Respectfully submitted, Karen Feather


25

November 9, 2015

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Landis Brown, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Chase Yetter, Greg Buckley, Kshama Harpankar, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:01.

1. Minutes of meeting of October 12, 2015 were approved unanimously.

2. SAC 2015-16 Agenda and Mission (Schroeder)

Mike Schroeder brought forward the most recent revision of the draft memo to go to President Thayne and other administrators. “Food service” was changed to “Dining Services.” In discussing its role in campus operations, it was noted that SAC has played a limited role rather than not an active role. There was discussion about the level of participation SAC can practically play in capital projects, which are often complex and undergo many revisions. It was agreed that SAC should seek to be briefed when a project is initially proposed and then step back until just before contracts are awarded. There was discussion about whether there is sufficient demand from students for courses on sustainability to justify a major or a minor. It was noted that Jessica Ickes, Director of Institutional Research, has been conducting feasibility studies for all new proposed academic programs, and it was agreed that a meeting should be scheduled with her. Zeigler suggested that the memo to the president include a request for $25,000 annually to support Sustainability Innovation Grants that could be used to fund pilot projects, such as the green roof being installed at Yuhas Commons. Zeigler and Schroeder plan to request a meeting with President Thayne before the end of the semester.

3. Student Intern update (Yetter) Chase Yetter reported that he and Ian McGinnis are collecting data for the carbon footprint report. They have reviewed the Presidents’ Climate Commitment and recommend that the SAC ask President Thayne to sign on behalf of LVC. There was discussion about whether there would be expenses to the college if the commitment was signed. It was agreed that everyone should review the commitment before the next meeting on December 7.

4. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather)

Karen Feather asked the committee to support having LVC participate in the Pennsylvania Sustainable Energy Financing Program (PennSEF). It was approved unanimously. She will communicate the committee’s support to VPFA Shawn Curtin.

Grants of up to $3000 each are available to faculty to revise an existing course or propose a new course with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. The deadline to apply is December 31.

Becky Urban, Carrie Coryer, Jan Seidel and Karen Feather plan to visit Dickinson College’s Alliance for Aquatic Resources and Monitoring (ALLARM) on November 16.

A tour of the sustainable farm, Garden Meadow Farm, has been scheduled for the Environmental Club on November 19.


26

A committee is being formed to prepare an application to the Arbor Day Foundation to be designated a Tree Campus USA.

5. Earth Days Planning (Urban) Becky Urban reported that most events for Earth Days have been consolidated into one week in April, beginning April 18, although the oratorical contest will be held earlier. It was agreed that the topic for the contest should focus on a global environmental problem and local actions that can be taken locally to address the problem, which fits into this year’s Colloquium theme of the local meets the global. Schroeder agreed to talk to Colloquium chair Bob Valgenti about seeking a speaker on the issue who could also serve as a judge for the contest.

6. Facilities Services update (Trostle) Vicki Trostle reported that despite having containers clearly marked “recycling” adjacent to every trash can during the Homecoming football game, not a single bag was able to be recycled because of trash contamination. She has entered into a four-month lease to rent two solar-powered trash containers to be placed outside the Humanities building and the Heilman Center. Expenditures for papers towels have risen by 10% since last year, and there was speculation that students are washing dishes in the bathrooms and drying them with paper towels. Zeigler reported that paper use in the computer labs is down between 30-40%.

7. Student Sustainability Topice (Lohman) Jay Lohman is continuing to work on establishing a program to have students serve as Eco-Reps.

8. Dining Services (Brown) Landis Brown reported that silverware is depleting tremendously, with over 200 pieces missing just since the fall break. About 13,300 meals are served every week, and the amount of food consumed remained steady. He plans to begin offering tours of dining services to incoming students so they better appreciate the expense associated with replacing silverware and dishes.

9. New Business Zeigler suggested that in the spring semester SAC should meet once every two weeks.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Karen Feather


27

December 7, 2015

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Chase Yetter, Greg Buckley, Kshama Harpankar, Ian McGinnis, Michelle Biever, Don Santostefano, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:00.

1. Minutes of meeting of November 9, 2015 were approved unanimously.

2. President’s Climate Commitment

There was discussion about the memo to President Thayne that Chase Yetter drafted to encourage him to sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment. Concern was expressed about the budgetary impact of meeting the Commitment’s goals, especially implementing a plan to become carbon neutral. It was agreed that the memo should be sent.

3. SAC 2015-16 Agenda and Mission (Schroeder) There was discussion about whether LVC should adopt a policy of purchasing only STARS certified appliances. Don Santostefano said that Facilities generally purchases only STARS certified appliances and felt there was no need for a formal policy. He also reported that the proposed health professions building is likely to be LEED certified. The memo to President Thayne was unanimously approved.

4. Student Intern update (Yetter) Yetter reported that the student data interns continue to work on the carbon footprint report.

5. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) Karen Feather reported that grants of up to $3000 each to revise an existing course or to develop a new course with an emphasis on environmental sustainability were available to faculty, with a deadline for applications of December 31. She also noted that Sustainability Internships were available to students for the spring semester. A committee was formed to develop an application to the Arbor Day Foundation to become a Tree Campus USA, and the first meeting was held on December 3. Vice President for Finance and Administration Shawn Curtin has not yet responded to SAC’s recommendation that LVC participate in the newly created PennSEF program. Santostefano stated that the college spends about $1.8 million in annual utility costs, which might be below the amount necessary for PennSEF to be cost-effective.


Becky Urban reported that she is coordinating with the Colloquium’s theme of “Local Meets Global” for Earth Days activities. She outlined the following activities:

Oratorical contest – April 6 A speaker from Millersville will be invited to serve as judge and also speak on fair trade chocolate

Quittie Cleanup for United Way’s Day of Caring – April 16


28

Sustainability Agriculture panel discussion – April 19

“Let’s Talk Trash” with Michael Schroeder – date to be determined

Sustainable Lunch Hour with Metz – April 20

Insect cooking display – April 20

Tour of green roof at Yuhas Commons – April 21

7. Facilities Services update (Trostle) Vicki Trostle reported that she has leased two solar compactors for installation at the west side of Humanities and the entrance to the Arnold Sports Center. She noted that on January 1 white paper will begin to be collected from the Humanities building for recycling, as well as shredded paper from Humanities and Carnegie. Santostefano said that the first container for the green roof has been built.

8. Student Sustainability Topics (Lohman) Jay Lohman is continuing to work on establishing a program to have students serve as Eco-Reps. He received only two responses from an email to members of the Environmental Club and plans to meet personally at a club meeting to encourage participation.

9. Dining Services (Brown) No one from Dining Services was available to attend the meeting.

10. New Business Zeigler announced that SAC will meet twice per month on Mondays at 2:00.




29

February 8, 2016

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Greg Buckley, Kshama Harpankar, Michelle Biever, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:05.

1. Minutes of meeting of December 7, 2015 were approved unanimously.


Mike Schroeder reported that he and Mike Zeigler are on the agenda of the next senior staff meeting to discuss the mission memo.

3. Student Intern update (Harpanka) Kshama Harpankar reported that the student interns continue to meet every Tuesday. She noted that the students are inputting athletic travel data into the greenhouse gas report, and they questioned whether faculty and staff travel to conferences should also be included. There was discussion about the administrative burden of tracking this information, and Harpankar agreed to check on how other colleges handle this. Zeigler noted that student intern Kristen Doverspike is revising the website for SAC and will create a timeline for major milestones. The 2013-14 annual report and carbon footprint report will be posted shortly, and the 2014-15 annual report is nearing completion. She is also working on marketing Earth Days activities.

4. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) Karen Feather noted that senior facilities director Don Santostefano was scheduled to speak to the CEO of the Foundation for Renewable Energy and Environment about the feasibility of participating in the Pennsylvania Sustainable Energy Financing (PennSEF) program. She reported that she, Mike Zeigler, and student Arthur De Sarno attended the PERC conference on “College and Community Connecting on Climate,” where the discussion centered on how colleges can help communities reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing expertise in compiling a greenhouse gas inventories. Feather reported that four course development proposals had been submitted for a grant, one of which requires additional work with a department chair before it can be offered. She moved to provide grants of $3000 each to the three other submissions, and the motion was approved unanimously. The grant recipients are as follows:

Becky Urban -- Conservation Biology

Ivette Guzman-Zavala -- Teaching Sustainability through Spanish

Kimberlee Josephson -- Sustainability in the Global Marketplace


30

Feather also reported that six student Sustainability Interns have been placed in Lebanon County municipal offices for the spring semester. They are as follows:

Antoinette Issis – West Lebanon

Alicia Illis – North Cornwall

Tara Thapaliya – South Londonderry

Ian McGinnis -- Lebanon

Zania Walker – Annville

Brittany Fleisher – Lebanon County GIS office Feather also noted that the Lebanon County Clean Water Alliance was successful in its technical capacity grant application, and the Center for Watershed Protection will work with Lebanon County municipalities to develop a county-wide plan to reduce pollutants flowing into waterways leading to the Chesapeake Bay. The kickoff meeting was held January 20, and the plan is expected to be completed by September.


Becky Urban reported that she sent information to Marketing and Communications on Earth Days activities. She outlined the following activities:

Oratorical contest – April 6 Nadine Garner from Millersville University has accepted an invitation to serve as judge and also speak on fair trade chocolate. Other judges include Owen Moe, Greg Buckley, and last year’s winner, Victoria Gluszko. Schroeder, Feather, and Urban will read written proposals to determine the finalists who will speak.

Bus trip to Longwood Gardens – April 12

Quittie Cleanup for United Way’s Day of Caring – April 16

Karen Bealle is creating an outdoor art installation made from garbage for the academic quad.

Sustainable Agriculture panel discussion – April 19

“Let’s Talk Trash” with Michael Schroeder – date to be determined

Sustainable Lunch Hour with Metz – April 20

Insect cooking display – April 20

Tour of green roof at Yuhas Commons – April 21

6. Facilities Services update (Trostle) Vicki Trostle reported that excessive trash deposited in residential halls just before the spring semester starts continues to be a problem. Four hand dryers were installed in rest rooms over the break. There was discussion about the adequacy of trash and recycling containers in the Arnold Sports Center. The installation of solar powered trash compactors has been delayed because of weather. She noted that we are getting paid one cent for each pound of recycled pallets.

7. Student Sustainability Topics (Lohman)


31

Jay Lohman expressed frustration with the lack of interest among students in sustainability issues. No students have agreed to serve as Eco-Reps. There was discussion about how SAC could better help to stimulate interest in the environment.


9. New Business Urban noted that two students have approached her about developing individual majors in environmental science. There was discussion about the importance of offering more classes of interest to students interested in the environment.




32

February 22, 2016

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Mike Schroeder, Becky Urban, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Kshama Harpankar, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:03.

1. Minutes of meeting of February 8, 2016 were approved unanimously.


Mike Schroeder reported that he and Mike Zeigler were very well received at the senior staff meeting. Student Chase Yetter presented the Presidents’ Climate Change Commitment, and President Thayne responded that we have to do this. It was determined that a payment to the organizing body Second Nature is now mandatory and would cost LVC $2200 per year. Zeigler plans to do some additional research on whether it is worth the cost. There was some discussion about the difference between a special purpose committee and pan college committee; the consensus among SAC members that either is fine. Steve O’Day will meet monthly with SAC co-chairs and serve as liaison to the senior staff. Academic dean Mike Green asked what academic curriculum SAC is recommending, and Schroeder responded that we are seeking a more policy-oriented program to take advantage of our proximity to the state capital. Schroeder suggested that SAC form a curriculum subcommittee. Urban expressed her interest in having another environmental scientist on the faculty, either in the biology or chemistry department.

3. Student Intern update (Harpankar) Kshama Harpankar determined that some colleges track faculty air travel to determine their carbon footprint and will continue to explore how to track that information efficiently. She noted that Juniata College sends an annual survey to faculty to self-report, and it was suggested that Jessica Ickes in Institutional Research could help devise a Qualtrics survey. There was discussion about whether the college should require the purchase of carbon offsets when scheduling flights and Harpankar noted that the research is inconsistent on whether such offsets are effective. Harpankar will ask Kelly Jacobs to become a data intern so that she can work with the current students and continue their work after they graduate. Zeigler reported that the Marketing Club has offered to design sustainability stickers for sale, with half the proceeds going to the Marketing Club and half to the Environmental Club. He will look into this further.

4. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) Karen Feather reported that senior facilities director Don Santostefano had a phone conversation with John Byrne, CEO of the Foundation for Renewable Energy and Environment (FREE) about the feasibility of using PennSEF to finance energy efficiency projects on campus. Because of the good work done by Facilities over the years, our campus is already highly efficient, with the exception of the use of the steam plant that heats seven academic buildings. Don will consult with VPFA Shawn Curtin on whether it makes sense to consider using PennSEF funds to upgrade the steam heat system while lending rates are so low.


33

Feather reported that former state geologist Jay Parrish met with four faculty members to discuss the possibility of developing a GIS management course for LVC. Mike Fry plans to discuss with members of the Data and Computer Science Department the possibility of teaching an introductory course on GIS beginning the fall of 2017. Feather also is working on having an environmental management and policy course taught by Diane Alwine, a recently retired executive from The Hershey Company who served as the global director for environmental affairs. She is seeking approval from the chairs of the political science and business departments (Diane Johnson and David Setley, respectively) to have the course count as an elective toward their majors. Feather noted that the Lebanon County Clean Water Alliance is currently collecting information from Lebanon County municipalities to determine what has already been done to comply with state stormwater management regulations. A meeting will be held at the end of March with technical experts from the Center for Watershed Protection, who will help craft a county-wide clean water plan. She also noted that the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences is hosting a meeting on agriculture and the Chesapeake Bay program in Hershey, March 1-3 and she planned to attend.


Becky Urban had no new developments to report since the last meeting.

6. Facilities Services update (Trostle) Vicki Trostle reported that two solar-powered compacting recycling containers have been installed at the southwest entrance to the Humanities building and the entrance to the Arnold Sports Center. There was discussion about how to draw attention to the compactors, including the possibility of holding a contest to name them. Hand dryers have been installed in several residential halls, and the cost of paper towels is going down. She noted that the housekeeping staff is using 100% green, sustainable cleaning supplies and will provide that information for inclusion in the annual report. There was discussion about vandalism on campus, especially in the residential halls. Jay Lohman sent an email to all students living on campus to remind them that they can be charged for the costs of cleaning up acts of vandalism. Trostle noted that a member of the housekeeping staff was stuck with a hypodermic needle while cleaning Leedy.

7. Student Sustainability Topics (Lohman) Jay Lohman plans to develop a job description and determine compensation for student eco-reps. He asked Zeigler and Feather to review his draft program.



34

9. New Business There was no new business.




35

March 14, 2016

Attendance: Mike Zeigler, Becky Urban, Jay Lohman, Karen Feather, Kristen Doverspike, Kelly Jacobs, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:05.

1. Minutes of meeting of February 22, 2016 were approved unanimously.

2. SAC 2015-16 Agenda and Mission (Zeigler)

There was discussion about the College’s commitment to attempting to achieve carbon neutrality. Concern was expressed about the annual dues of $2400 to be paid to Second Nature in order to participate in the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment. It was determined that LVC should prepare its own commitment statement to be signed by the president at a public ceremony during Valley Palooza on April 22, followed by a tree-planting ceremony. Jay Lohman will coordinate with Valley Palooza organizers Todd Snovel and Jen Evans. There was consensus that LVC should continue to pursue designation from the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus USA. Zeigler noted that a meeting has been scheduled for March 30 to discuss the development of a sustainability curriculum, specifically to explore an environmental studies major. Academic Dean Michael Green, VP for Strategic Initiatives Steven O’Day, and Institutional Research Director Jessica Ickes are scheduled to participate.

3. Student Intern update (Doverspike) Kristen Doverspike reported that she has completed the design of a poster for Earth Days and is working on preparing a press release. There will also be a story posted on LVC’s website announcing the Sustainability Course Development grants. The SAC 2014-15 report is done and has been posted to the website. Doverspike will also have 5 posters available at the Facilities Table for LVC Live on April 2.

4. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) Karen Feather noted that she had participated in two webinars about the use of solar power on campus. Because LVC is already getting 100% of its electricity from a renewable energy source (wind power), further follow-up on installing a solar array on campus is not a high priority. She noted that Dean Green has approved the hiring of Diane Alwine as an adjunct faculty member to teach Environmental Management and Policy in the fall. She invited members of SAC to join a meeting on March 28 with Matt Royer, Director of the Agriculture and Environment Center at Penn State, to explore ways in which the two institutions can partner to improve the water quality of the lower Susquehanna. She also noted that the Lebanon County Clean Water Alliance will be meeting on March 29 with the Center for Watershed Protection, the technical expert funded through a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to help devise a county-wide clean water plan..


Becky Urban noted that Jay Lohman agreed to replace Greg Buckley as a judge for the oratorical contest. Ten students have entered the contest with written essays, which Urban, Feather, and Mike Schroeder are reviewing. Zeigler will purchase the prizes, which are an iPad mini for first place and gift cards to the college store of $100 for second place and $50 for third place.


36

6. Facilities Services update (Trostle)

Vicki Trostle reported that the structure for the green roof has been installed and is ready for planting. Urban suggested scheduling the tour of the green roof to follow the tree planting on April 22. Doverspike will take photos and write a story for the website.

Trostle noted that the solar recycling compactors seem to be working fine. She expressed continued frustration with excessive trash in residence halls. Plates, utensils, and takeout containers can be found in student rooms. Trostle, Zeigler, and Lohman will meet with Landis Brown and Kim Smith to ask the Metz design team to create flyers indicating the cost of replacing these items from the dining hall. She also reported that the trash container at Summit and Railroad was filled with trash that took four facilities staff members a full morning to clean out.

7. Student Sustainability Topics (Lohman) Jay Lohman developed a job description for Eco-Reps and estimated that he would need 8 student workers for two hours per week to have each residence hall covered. Lohman suggested that serving as an Eco-Rep could be designed into independent study for credit, and Kelly Jacobs noted that she would rather earn credit than money. He reported that 1108 College Avenue will be a special interest house with a focus on sustainability. Trostle reported that switching to hand dryers in Funkhouser saved $830 in the avoided costs of paper towels in just two months. Jacobs reported that she has begun inputting data into the carbon footprint report, and that she is planning to have a table on the Environmental Club at LVC Live.






37

April 11, 2016

Attendance: Mike Schroeder, Mike Zeigler, Karen Feather, Kshama Harpankar, Kelly Jacobs, Landis Brown, and Vicki Trostle. Mike Schroeder called the meeting to order at 2:01.

1. Minutes of meeting of March 14, 2016 were approved unanimously.

2. Innovation Grant (Zeigler)

Mike Zeigler announced that an innovation grant of $12,500 has been approved for the Sustainability Advisory Committee to spend on student wages and programming, bringing the SAC’s budget to $20,000 for the 2016-17 academic year.

3. President’s Climate Commitment (Zeigler) There was consensus that President Thayne should be asked to sign the Second Nature climate commitment. Dues for the first year of joining the organization will be paid for with the state grant.

4. Curriculum Development update (Zeigler) Zeigler noted that Academic Dean Mike Green met with a subset of SAC to discuss majors in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. Becky Urban had just obtained approval from the Committee on Curriculum and Assessment for a self-designed major in Environmental Science for a student, which would be the basis for a permanent major. An additional faculty member from either the Chemistry or Biology departments would be needed. More thought needs to be given to what would be required for an environmental studies major, and a brainstorming session with faculty and outside experts has been scheduled for May 11.

5. Student Intern update (Harpankar) Kshama Harpankar noted that the students are on track to complete the carbon footprint report by the end of the semester. Vicki Trostle will review. Kristen Doverspike produced a poster for the panel discussion on agriculture and the environment, as well as the SAC annual report. She has been tweeting “fast facts” about sustainability at LVC once a week, and Schroeder praised her work to clean up the web site. He announced the results of the oratorical contest: 1st place Abby Mosior; 2nd place Stephen Mazur; 3rd place Katelyn Gingrich.

6. Center for Municipal and Corporate Sustainability (CMACS) (Feather) Karen Feather reported that she is investigating the possibility of having students complete carbon footprints for local municipalities. She participated in two webinars on solar power, which she plans to explore further over the summer. She attended “PA in the Balance,” a conference on agriculture and the environment sponsored by Penn State, with whom she has been coordinating on efforts to clean up the lower Susquehanna. The Environmental Management and Policy course has been approved, and Diane Alwine cleared the background check to teach it as an adjunct this fall. She continues to work with math professor Mike Fry on developing a GIS course for the fall of 2017. She also noted that the Lebanon County Clean Water Alliance continues to make progress in developing a county-wide pollutant reduction plan. Currently six LVC students are helping Lebanon County municipalities through the Sustainability Internship program.

7. Special Purpose Committee (Schroeder)

Schroeder noted that the faculty was scheduled to vote to approve SAC as a special purpose committee at the next business meeting.


38

8. Earth Days Planning (Urban) Schroeder noted that City of Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello asked President Thayne to organize a cleanup of the streets of Lebanon by students. Originally scheduled to take place April 9, it was postponed until April 16 because of weather.

9. Facilities Services update (Trostle) Vicki Trostle reported that the installation of electric hand dryers in Funkhouser East and West has already paid for itself through savings on paper towels. Mary Green will be retrofitted this summer, and the library and chapel are scheduled to be next. The two solar compactors have hardly been used; they have not needed to be emptied since they were installed in December. An additional recycling box will be installed at Railroad and Summit. She noted that recycling will be mandatory at the lacrosse tournament this summer, when more than 5000 people are expected to attend.

10. Dining Services (Brown) Landis Brown reported that vendors will have displays on their sustainability activities for the Sustainability Lunch hours. He reported that food waste has increased from 1.53 ounces per student in the fall to 1.92 ounces this spring. So far this academic year approximately 36,000 pounds of food have been wasted. Trostle said that we are working with students on ideas to reduce waste.





39

May 9, 2016 Attendance: Mike Schroeder, Mike Zeigler, Jay Lohman, Kristen Doverspike, Ian McGinnis, Chase Yetter, Becky Urban, Karen Feather, Kelly Jacobs. Mike Zeigler called the meeting to order at 2:05.

1. Minutes of the meeting of April 25, 2016 were approved unanimously.

2. President’s Climate Commitment (Zeigler)

Mike Zeigler reported that he met with VP for Strategic Initiatives Steve O’Day to discuss the implementation of the Second Nature Climate Commitment. O’Day is asking SAC to provide recommendations to senior staff on LVC’s institutional structure. The first year’s dues are due on September 1, and within two months LVC must create an institutional structure to implement the commitment, with a first report due on January 15, 2017. There was consensus that the SAC will serve as the interim implementation committee, with three meetings per year focused on the climate commitment. Shawn Curtin, VP for Finance and Administration, and Don Santostefano, Senior Director of Facilities Management, will be asked to join those meetings, which would take place at the beginning of the fall, end of fall, and end of spring. Goals will be set at the beginning of the semester, and SAC will present recommendations at the end of the semester. It was agreed that a timeline for meeting the Commitment should be put together over the summer.

3. Meeting times (Zeigler) It was noted that Mike Schroeder and Becky Urban are not available to meet during common hour because of their commitment to a faculty committee. It was agreed that a Doodle poll will be distributed in the fall to determine the best time to schedule SAC meetings.

4. New Business

There was no new business.



Documents

Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Reports3.amazonaws.com/lvc-www/files/resources/sac-annual-report-2015... · Sustainability Advisory Committee Annual Report ... See Appendix