The University will act as a host sponsor for the 2018 Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Conference & Expo on Oct. 2-5 in Pittsburgh, Pa. This year will focus on the theme “Global Goals: Rising to the Challenge,” and the role of higher education in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Initially launched in 2006, AASHE’s mission is “to inspire and catalyze higher education to lead the global sustainability transformation,” according to its website.

The University’s sustainability manager Debbie Namugayi is a member of AASHE’s Advisory Council and will co-present the networking session, “Integrating Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Into Higher Ed Sustainability Work,” and will serve as the master of ceremonies for the opening of the conference. The University will also host an informational table on its sustainability program and initiatives, such as the University’s 12 LEED certified buildings, PEER certification for its energy systems, AASHE STARS Silver rating and sustainability-related courses. The University is a member institution of AASHE and supports the climate action plan outlined in the Paris Agreement.

“We are grateful for the overwhelming support from our host institutions as we work together to lead the sustainability transformation. I am confident that this conference will provide participants with a platform to explore innovative solutions to advance sustainability in higher education and the surrounding community,” AASHE Executive Director Meghan Fay Zahniser said.

Other master host institutions for the Conference & Expo include Carnegie Mellon University, Chatham University, Duquesne University, Frostburg State University and the University of Pittsburgh, and supporting host institutions include Messiah College and the Pennsylvania State University.