In 2007, Elon University adopted an ambitious Sustainability Master Plan, with goals to achieve reduced resource use and carbon neutrality.  The Sustainability Faculty Scholars Program, an initiative designed to provide resources and training to faculty throughout the University to help achieve these goals, was adopted in spring, 2008.  This program was created as a partnership between the Center for Teaching and Learning, the Center for Environmental Studies and the Office of Sustainability. 

Results/Conclusions

Faculty applied to participate by proposing to either modify an existing class or to create a new class having an understanding of sustainable practices as a primary learning objective.  Faculty participants were paid a small stipend and had their classes capped at 25 students.  Now in its third year, faculty participants represent disciplines throughout the University, including Business, Communications, Leisure Sports Management, and six departments in the College of Arts and Sciences.  In this program, faculty meet for 2 hour workshops throughout spring semester, attend a full day field trip, participate in two off campus retreats, and meet for a summer book club discussion.  Resources available to faculty include a Blackboard website with documents and web links, purchase of books, and a library of relevant books and other materials.  A workshop guide was produced that facilitated discussion on the diverse definitions of sustainability, the role of the University, basic principles of ecology, importance of environmental services and resource stewardship, social/economic systems and human needs and values.  Outcomes have included a panel presentation at the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education national conference, shared syllabi from 9 redesigned classes, development of sustainability assessments by students (ex. comparative energy use of campus buildings, impact from Cash-for-Clunkers program), redesigned majors courses, additional focused training by faculty participants, integration of sustainability principles into Elon’s General Studies program, and a growing cohort of engaged faculty who have continued to meet for discussions and support.