I waited until Earth Day to sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment because I wanted the moment to be special. I believe it was.
Over the past year we have spent a good bit of time working on a new strategic plan for the campus. As a result of many hours of discussion, we, as a campus, have identified four areas of strategic emphasis: image development, connection with the community, top-flight educational experiences, and a culture of healthy minds, bodies and campuses.
The fourth area of emphasis is especially important because it enables us to put the full force of the university community behind the tenets of sustainability. As I told you in my inauguration remarks last month, Southern Miss is going green. We will think ecologically with a commitment to actions that reduce, reuse and recycle. Our buildings will be designed with the environment in mind. Our physical plant will re-think operations to minimize our environmental footprint. (Good for the environment, yes, but these actions will mean bottom line savings.) Collaborations with community agencies will enhance health services and our programs will teach the mechanics of green practice.
I have appointed a sustainability committee and signed a pledge to exercise leadership in this area. We have a lot to do to reach our goal, but the first step...commitment...has been met.