SUSTAINABILITY Newsletter
SPRING 2024
Campus Updates
Celebrating Rogue Earth Day at the Farm at SOU
On April 19th, Rogue Earth Day brought together local students, families, community members, and businesses for a day of celebration and education centered around our planet. This free, half-day event located at The Farm at SOU featured booths from organizations like Rogue Climate, the Ashland Food Co-Op, the Lomakatsi Restoration Project, and over 40 others, many of which included interactive activities and games for participants of all ages. The event also featured a ceremony celebrating the World Peace Flame that has been located on The Farm at SOU since 2018, one of only two located in the entire United States.
When asked about Rogue Earth Day, Student Organizer and Sustainability major Sierra Garrett commented “it’s just great to see everybody come together over the one thing that unites us all: this planet. There’s so much fear about our climate and how stable we are as a society, and that’s valid, but it’s important to also focus on all of the good… music, food, dancing, socialization, everything that reminds us of our humanity, everything that we see at this event… we must have that humanity to save and celebrate our planet.”
This year’s Rogue Earth Day was brought on by a joint partnership between SOU’s Office of Sustainability, SOU’s Office of Belonging and Engagement, SOU’s Institute for Applied Sustainability and local organizations. A huge thank you to all vendors, performers, staff members, and volunteers who made this event possible! Stay tuned for information about the date, time, and location of Rogue Earth Day 2025.
IAS Advisory Council
In early May, the Institute for Applied Sustainability (IAS) held its inaugural advisory council meeting, marking a significant step in its mission to promote sustainability. Joined by a diverse group of community leaders, the meeting facilitated open discussions on pressing issues such as water management, environmental justice, and tourism. These topics, curated by community representatives, will be further explored in upcoming sessions, forming the foundation for innovative solutions. The Institute extends gratitude to all participants and looks forward to continued collaboration in fostering sustainable innovation within the community.
New IAS Faculty Fellowship Cohort
The Institute for Applied Sustainability is excited to welcome the newest Faculty Fellowship Cohort:
- Dr. Karen Mager, Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Policy and Biology: Focusing on wildlife connectivity in transportation corridors.
- Dr. Jamie Trammell, Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Policy:
Leading Sustainable Partnerships for Undergraduate-based Research (SPUR). - Dr. Mike Tylinski, Assistant Professor of Physical Chemistry:
Spearheading the SOU Sustainable Battery Facility. - Dr. Chhaya Werner, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science & Policy:
Leading Klamath Restoration Research. - Dr. Precious Yamaguchi, Associate Professor of Communication:
Centering the work of diverse identities at Southern Oregon University and Ashland.
The Faculty Fellows Program, under the Institute’s guidance, supports faculty initiatives emphasizing sustainability. This new cohort succeeds the original fellows, whose contributions laid the groundwork for the program’s growth. Outgoing fellows, including Dr. Pavlina McGrady, Dr. Jessica Piekielek, Dr. Chris Lucas, and Dr. Bret Anderson are thanked for their dedicated service. Here’s to continued growth and impact as the Institute and the fellows embark on this new chapter together.
Celebrating Arbor Day at SOU
On April 26th, five SOU landscape crew members and four volunteers came together to celebrate Arbor Day by planting a wide array of native plants on the south side of Hannon Library. Prior to the event, the landscaping crew laid out 1,200 starters with plants like Deer Fern, Woods Rose, Quaking Aspen, Snowberry, Spiraea, Festuca, Carex, and more. Students, staff, faculty, and community members are highly encouraged to visit the back side of Hannon Library to check out the results of that day, as well as to test the new walking trail that meanders from one side of the building to the other.
Observance of Arbor Day is just one requirement for institutions hoping to secure certification as a Tree Campus USA, a recognition that SOU recently received for the 10th year in a row. Visit ArborDay.org for more information about the Arbor Day Foundation and its Tree Campus Higher Education certification program.
Events and Opportunities
Staying Connected to Sustainability Over the Summer
As summer approaches, it’s a great time to stay connected to sustainability while enjoying the beautiful Southern Oregon area. Here are some ideas that combine adventure, community, and eco-friendly practices.
Explore Local Trails
Southern Oregon offers numerous hiking opportunities that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. Here are a few trails to check out:
- Table Rocks: These volcanic plateaus offer stunning views of the Rogue Valley. The hikes are relatively easy and are a great way to learn about local flora and fauna. See more about the Upper Table Rock here. See more data about the Lower Table Rock here.
- Lithia Park: If you’ve never visited this incredible place located in Ashland, now is the time to check it out! This park has several trails that wind through lush landscapes and past Ashland Creek. See more about this gem here.
- Crater Lake National Park: Just a short drive from SOU, this national park offers breathtaking views and a variety of hiking options. It is truly stunning and worth a day’s adventure. See about how to hike in this fantastic national park here.
Attend Sustainability Events
Engaging in local events can deepen your connection to the sustainability community:
- Rogue Valley Growers & Crafters Market: Held in Medford and Ashland, this market supports local farmers and artisans. It’s a fantastic place to shop for fresh produce and handmade goods. See more here.
- Rogue River Cleanup Events: Join local organizations in keeping the Rogue River clean and healthy. These events are a hands-on way to contribute to local environmental efforts. See more here.
Everyday Sustainability Tips
Here are some simple practices to maintain a sustainable lifestyle over the summer:
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Focus on reducing waste by reusing items whenever possible and recycling properly. Bring reusable bags, bottles, and containers to reduce single-use plastics.
- Sustainable Transportation: Opt for biking, walking, or public transportation instead of driving. Ashland is perfect for cycling or walking.
- Support Local: Shop at local farmers’ markets and businesses to support sustainable practices within the community. Locally grown food often has a lower carbon footprint than imported goods.
- Conserve Water: With summer often bringing dry conditions, it’s important to conserve water. Simple actions like taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using drought-resistant plants in your garden can make a big difference.
- Volunteer: Participate in local environmental groups or initiatives. Volunteering not only helps the planet but also connects you with like-minded individuals.
By incorporating these activities and practices into your summer plans, you can stay connected to sustainability and make a positive impact on your community and the environment. Enjoy your summer sustainably!
Sustainability Spotlight
Spring term’s Sustainability Spotlight focuses on Kira Welch, who is the Coordinator for the Institute for Applied Sustainability at SOU!
Who is Kira?
Kira graduated from Southern Oregon University with a degree in Outdoor Adventure Leadership and minors in Environmental Science & Policy and Psychology. She also holds a certificate in Sustainability Leadership. Now living in Talent, Oregon with her partner and pets, Kira enjoys the local outdoor activities like rafting and mountain biking.
What is her role at SOU?
Kira is the Coordinator for the Institute for Applied Sustainability at SOU. Her role is multifaceted, helping to keep the institute’s operations running smoothly to drive change both on campus and in the community. The essence of the Institute lies in bringing together students, staff, faculty, and community members to collectively address sustainability issues. Kira explains, “We support faculty scholarship, innovative projects, and provide space and time for individuals to explore solutions to challenging and interconnected problems.”
How does she support campus sustainability projects?
Kira helps with innovation at SOU by facilitating projects conceived by staff and faculty. She aids in idea development, policy guidance, and promoting student-led sustainability efforts, finding inspiration in the students’ enthusiasm and commitment.
What advice does she offer to those interested in sustainability?
Kira believes understanding sustainability’s broad scope is crucial. She recommends engaging in coursework, seeking mentors, and joining campus initiatives like the Sustainability Office to deepen involvement and impact.
Kira suggests seeking out mentors for support and being a part of the conversation to get involved on campus. She recommends the Sustainability Office or the Farm as great places to start and encourages anyone interested to chat with her. Kira highlights the importance of driving systemic changes beyond individual actions and encourages others to be open to opportunities and curious about their passions and impact. She says, “It’s important to truly recognize how interconnected sustainability is and that every issue we face must be addressed through social, environmental, and economic lenses–we have to look at the whole picture.”
What does she value about SOU?
Kira values the sense of community and interdisciplinary approach at SOU. She appreciates the nurturing environment that builds lasting friendships and professional relationships, enjoying her role in enhancing the student experience as a staff member.
Any final thoughts?
Kira emphasizes the importance of the next generation being more involved in sustainability issues. She acknowledges the feelings of hopelessness that can take hold, but believes that refusing to give up offers a chance for a better future. Kira encourages educating oneself to share knowledge, asserting, “Your voice matters, and students have more power in this University than I think they know. You can help steer the ship if you rally enough people.” Kira adds, “Approach these issues humanely with an open mind to the barriers that ‘the other side’ is facing. If we make the effort to look at issues from the same side of the table, we will be more successful in finding solutions.”
