An Assets-based Approach for Sustainability Strategic Planning and Engagement

Cynthia Klein-Banai, PhD, Associate Chancellor for Sustainability, UIC

Jennifer Hirsch, Ph.D., Sustainability & Diversity Specialist and Consultant to the UIC Office of Sustainability

Nina Pellizzari, Student Intern

Introduction

• Peggy Barlett quote—plans v. engagement JENNY PPT SLIDE

• Leith Sharp—3rd wave of sustainability JENNY PPT SLIDE

The Charge

• Provost and Vice-Chancellor for Administration• Sustainability lens (diversity to curriculum)• All levels: teaching, research, processes, operations,

communities• Urban environment• Beyond environment • Insure future of programs, research, student success• Document preservation• Learning retention• Staff burn out

• Significance of being a sustainable campus within a diverse urban environment

UPP Studio

Steering Committee (SC)

Advisory Committee (AC)

Student InternsWorking Groups

Health & Wellness

Education & Outreach

Systems Use

PhysicalStructure

Chancellor

Vice-Chancellor for Administrative Services Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs/Provost

VP for Planning & Programming

MPA Capstone Groups

Associate Chancellor(Office of Sustainability)

UIC Community Survey

Process Evaluation

SST Organizational Chart

Strategic Goals & Initiatives

Goal 1: Build on UIC’s strengths to integrate sustainability into all aspects of campus

Campus Assets

Student Interns and Classes

• Assets based approach– Generated by committee– Interviews and presentations by students

• Deliberative approach• Drew on “big ideas”• Inductive approach Campus Assets

Next steps

• Data: qualitative, about a broader range of issues

• Shift from outcomes to processes/principles

Q & A