Get Involved

Sustainability at Southern Oregon University

We believe that meaningful change comes from a wide range of perspectives

Every student has something valuable to contribute. You do not need to study sustainability to get involved! Whether you’re passionate about climate action, curious about food systems, interested in policy, or simply want to meet people, there is a place for you in SOU sustainability!

You don’t need to commit tons of time to get involved. Opportunities range from quick, one-time activities to in-depth leadership roles, internships, and student-led projects. Choose what fits your schedule, your interests, and your comfort level. Our sustainability team would love to have you.

Explore how you can get involved in Sustainability

Join our email list

Stay in the loop about sustainability opportunities, events, jobs, and programs at SOU. Our email list is the best way to get our Sustainability Newsletter, hear about new initiatives, volunteer openings, events, and new ways to get involved on campus and in the community. Sign up here.

Follow our social media

Follow our Instagram account to stay in the loop on the daily. @SOU_Sustainability

Check out our Youtube page to dive deeper! @SustainabilityatSouthernOregon

Come talk to our team

You’re always invited to stop by and say hi to our team! Most of us are located in the Science Suite 223-227. If you have specific questions and want to schedule a time to chat, you can reach out to the Institute’s Managing Director, Kira Welch at welchk1@sou.edu and she can connect you to the right person.

Take a class

Explore sustainability through hands-on interdisciplinary courses across many majors. From environmental science to sociology and anthropology, you can deepen your knowledge while completing core and elective credits towards your major. Find out more on Degrees & Learning.

Make small swaps

Making small changes in your daily habits can make a big impact. Turn off the lights when you leave the room, unplug un-used electronics, carpool, walk or bike to class, carry a reusable water bottle. Integrating one or more of the habit changes can help support the sustainability movement.

Attend a Sustainability event

There are a variety of sustainability related events on campus ranging from guest lectures and poster sessions to clothing swaps and Earth Day celebrations. There is always something happening. Events are open to all students and you are encouraged to attend and bring your friends. Have fun and learn something new!

Check out our News & Events page to tabs on upcoming events.

Join an affinity group that support sustainability

Go on a trip with the Outdoor Program, visit The Farm, or check out all the clubs you could join on campus on the Hawks Nest website.

Participate in the Sustainability Photo Contest

Sustainability at SOU hosts an annual Photo Contest “What does sustainability mean to you” challenging SOU students to showcase sustainability through artful expression. The contest winner receives a $50 visa giftcard! The contest is held every Fall. Learn more about this competition on our Instagram.

Design your own project

Have a sustainability idea you’d love to make real? Did you know students have the power to lead their own projects on campus? The SOU student Green Fund is a program designed for exactly this! Students pay $14 each term into a student green tag fee dedicated to fund student-led sustainability initiatives. You can lead the next project! Learn more here.

Become a Student Fellow

Student Fellows in the Community Resilience & Leadership Program get to work closely with faculty and community members on local projects through hands-on learning. It’s a great way to develop professional skills, gain mentorship and networking connections, and make a direct impact on your community.

Get a campus job or volunteer

SOU offers paid student positions in areas like: the recycling center, the farm, landscaping, event coordination, and more. These opportunities let you build skills, work with others, and support sustainability initiatives across campus. Volunteer opportunities are also available in areas like: event support, landscaping, and the farm. Find campus jobs on the Workday Student Jobs Portal.

Join the Sustainability Council

The Sustainability Council brings students, staff, and faculty together to guide SOU’s sustainability efforts. Students can share ideas, collaborate on campus-wide initiatives, and help shape SOU’s future. Sustainability council page to learn more about open seats maybe something about at-large student positions here?

Get involved in Student Government

Student Government (ASSOU) plays a powerful role in advancing campus sustainability. From influencing campus policies to funding student-led projects, you can advocate for change and represent the student voice. Learn more about ASSOU and the Environmental Affiars Committee here.

Get involved in the community

Sustainability at SOU extends beyond campus. Students can volunteer, intern, or collaborate on projects that support the broader region and make a real impact on our local community. The Institute for Applied Sustainability can help you make those connections. Check out or Community Resilience and Leadership Student Fellow Program.