Campus Leadership's Influence in Implementing a Community College's Sustainability Goals: A Case Study

Abstract

The case study documented one large, multicampus community college's progress in implementing sustainability goals outlined in the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). The case study examined the role of branch-campus presidents and the college president in institutionalizing sustainability. Responses to semistructured interviews with the presidents, a document review, and campus observations were analyzed to respond to the following research questions:

1. What measureable results have been demonstrated by the subject college in institutionalizing sustainability goals? 2. How do individual branch-campus presidents perceive their role in implementing and institutionalizing the college's sustainability goals? 3. What do branch-campus presidents perceive as important factors in contributing to implementing and institutionalizing sustainability goals? 4. What do branch-campus presidents perceive as barriers to the successful implementation of sustainability goals?

The subject college had made progress toward sustainability goals, such as measuring baseline greenhouse gas emissions and preparing a Climate Action Plan to achieve climate neutrality. Sustainability programs were evident at all 5 campuses. Campus presidents perceived that there were financial and societal benefits from the college's commitment to sustainability. However, they perceived barriers, such as a lack of accountability to the Climate Action Plan; demands on their time; and the transient nature of community college students and adjunct faculty, who may lack a strong connection to the college.

It was recommended that the college incorporate sustainability goals into its strategic plan, that infrastructure to support sustainability be strengthened, that the sustainability message be consistently communicated to college stakeholders, and that professional development opportunities on environmental literacy be provided to faculty and staff.