Sustainability Ambassador Program FAQs
Applying
Why does my supervisor need to approve my participation? What if they have questions?
The program is a professional development opportunity to be completed during working hours. As a result, your supervisor needs to be aware of and approve your participation. If your supervisor has questions or concerns we would be glad to speak to them. This program will need continued support from supervisors, and we want to understand their concerns.
I am not a full-time employee, are there other opportunities?
Yes. We suggest starting with the opportunities we post on the “Get Involved” tab of this website. Those include a new staff program focused on groups rather than individuals called the Green Workplace Program. As an individual, you may find events, workshops, or groups to join. For teaching and research staff, this website also has a tab called “Teaching and Research” with specific opportunities and resources for professional development.
How often is the program offered?
The program operates in cohorts that begin each year in the fall. Registration starts in late summer (July) and closes a week before the first training (September). If you miss the registration window and are interested in joining the program, please contact us so we can place you on our interest list. We will reach out when registration opens for the next cohort.
Participating
What if I can’t make the scheduled training times?
Participants are allowed to miss one training module. Make-up opportunities will be offered when multiple individuals miss a training module.
What happens at the training sessions and how many are there?
Trainings will be in a range of formats including presentations, tours, activities, panels, and discussions. You may be asked to complete brief pre-session assignments like prep questions or researching examples of department practices, to prepare for training. Outside work or not, you’ll attend a one-hour-long training each month. Each month will focus on a different sustainability topic, such as waste management, transportation, carbon pollution, responsible purchasing, etc.
There will be seven total trainings; three during the fall semester and four during the spring semester with the last one in April. Additionally, there will be optional opportunities such as project workshops, events, and make-up sessions throughout the program.
Are the training sessions in person or virtual?
The training sessions will be primarily in person and all on campus. One reason is to gain insights from touring campus facilities, hearing from a guest speaker, or trying a hands-on activity. The program may develop more online content and virtual options in the future. Virtual options and accommodations will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
BEING AMBASSADORIAL
I want to try different ways to show how I can be an ambassador. How much freedom do I have?
We have a track where you can document how you are engaging other members of the campus community. We ask that you self-report at least 3 separate engagement efforts using an online form we provide.
What are some examples of how ambassadors engage other campus members?
- Communicating what you’ve been learning in trainings
- Bring colleagues to a sustainability event
- Get sustainability on the agenda for a staff meeting, e.g., invite the Office of Sustainability to speak or give a tour to your staff
- Lead colleagues in trying a sustainable action
- Promote sustainability events (Campus Sustainability Month & Earth Month)
- Recruit new participants for Sustainability Ambassadors
- Promote programs (Green Workplace, Adopt-a-Spot, Office Clean-out)
I do better with a set goal and more structure. Can I do one big thing to be an ambassador?
Ambassadors can use the Green Workplace program to complete this requirement. Lead your work unit to complete one badge, gaining performance improvement and recognition for your team. We recommend starting with the Waste Reduction Badge, but will help you choose another if your unit has already earned that badge.
Completing (and Beyond)
How will I be recognized for completing the program?
Once you complete the program to become an ambassador, you will receive a printed certificate and digital icon that you can use on your email signature and/or a personal website. You will be listed on the program website and be invited to an annual recognition ceremony in the fall. Your supervisor will receive a letter acknowledging your success and thanking them for their support. Other potential recognition opportunities include news articles and program testimonies.
What happens once I complete the program, can I stay engaged?
We hope that Sustainability Ambassadors will continue to serve as liaisons and partners to the Office of Sustainability, and as peer educators for the campus. We will continue to send you communications to share within your work unit and other campus affiliations. You are invited to share news, successes, and challenges with us too so we may continue to highlight and support you. You will also receive invitations to participate in events and help with programs, or to connect with new ambassadors looking for advice.