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Knowledge. Generosity. Community.

Action and Impact

Students discussing environmental data


Smith College’s sustainability work is informed and led by a set of strategic plans and policies including the college’s Strategic Plan, the Study Group on Climate Change Recommendations, existing and emerging goals and actions for equity and inclusion, and more.

Explore Our Actions and Impact

Students taking action in sustainability
Climate Action
Students and dining staff.
Food and Dining
Recycle bins
Waste

Leadership & Recognition

About the Committee

The Committee on Sustainability is concerned with the best long-term use of finite natural resources and the college's impact on the local, regional and global environment. It identifies, implements and evaluates approaches for increasing Smith's commitment to sustainability in all areas of the campus, including (but not limited to) construction, transportation, materials and energy use, waste management, purchasing, investment and the campus curriculum. It will also monitor the college’s progress toward meeting the recommendations from the Study Group on Climate Change and report annually to the community.

Committee on Sustainability Members

  • Chris Aiken, Professor, Dance
  • Alexander Barron, Assistant Professor, Environmental Science & Policy
  • Jim Gray, Associate VP of Facilities and Operations
  • Timothy Johnson, Director, Smith College Botanic Garden
  • Denise McKahn, Associate Professor, Engineering
  • Amy Rhodes, Professor, Geosciences
  • Beth Hooker, Director of Sustainability and Administrative Director of CEEDS

Students in Sustainability

Emma Ryan

Emma Ryan

“I hope this project meets the student needs and creates a sense of community at Smith. This is the kind of work I would want to do for the rest of my life.”

Jasmine Pacheco-Ramos

Jasmine Pacheco-Ramos

“The Study Group on Climate Change process required difficult conversations, and I definitely learned a lot throughout the project.”

Audrey Dawson

Audrey Dawson

“I’ve led by empowering my peers and collaborating with a wide range of student orgs and departments to enact change through educational events and programming.”