Sustainability Meetings Notes

Meetings Notes

Please Join us at our next meeting. December 6, 2013 at 3:00pm, Tah SC 147 and BABT 226 via ITV

• March 7, 2014
• November 1, 2013
• September 27, 2013
• August 30, 2013
• April 5, 2013
• March 1, 2013
• November 2, 2012
• October 5, 2012
• September 7, 2012
• April 18, 2012
• March 28, 2012
• February 22, 2012
• January 25, 2012
• November 16, 2011
• October 19, 2011
• April 15, 2011
• March 25, 2011
• February 25, 2011
• January 21, 2011
• January 7, 2011
• November 30, 2010

Committee for Sustainability
Meeting Minutes
Friday, March 7, 2014 at 3:30 PM in SC 126
The Committee for Sustainability met of Friday, March 7, 2014 at 3:30 PM in SC 126. The following people were in attendance: Jon Asbill, Mark Buckles, Tere Feller, Deanie Hensley, Deb Hyde, (student) Taylor Melone, (student) Ashley Stoddard and (student) Rachel Taylor.
In Old Business:
It was announced that Ronnie Grayson has resigned as chair of the NSU Tree Campus Committee. If NSU is to continue with the Tree Campus USA designation and NSU Arbor Day events a new champion for that cause will need to be identified as soon as possible.

In New Business:

1. Planning has started for this year's NSU Earth Day Celebration. Our committee has reserved space at the 2nd Century Square on Tuesday, April 22nd from 2:00 6:00 PM. Our rain location will be the UC Ballroom C.
2. We have been invited by the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission and the Save the Illinois River organization to participate with their first annual Bio-Blitz on Saturday, April 19, 2014 from 8:00 AM until noon. After some limited discussion the attendees decided to pass on this opportunity for this year.
3. Deb received an email from Cassandra Crawford-Ciglar explaining that the Nutrition and Dietetics club plans to hold a food drive for the NSU food pantry and announce the winners at our Earth Day event and they want to have an organizational table at Earth Day.
4. Deb Hyde and Whitney and Wes from housing plan to hold a workshop entitled Brainwriting for Sustainability from 2:00 3:00 pm on Earth Day. Whitney and Wes will share conservation tips with the workshop attendees.
5. The following individuals have volunteered to act as working group leaders for this year's Earth Day:
   a) Donations Coordinator: Donna Agee
   b) Music Coordinator: Deanie Hensley
   c) Student Organization and Tables Coordinator: Taylor Malone
   d) MC Team Coordinator: _tba_
   e) Workshop Coordinator: Deb Hyde w/ Whitney and Wes from housing
   f) NSU & Community Marketing Coordinators: Mia Revels and Tere Feller
   6) Rachel Taylor agreed to contact someone from the Campaigns class to see if they might be interested in taking on the promotion of Earth Day as their class project.
   7) The group discussed and voted to use a version of the Gather Here, Go Green logo that we used approximately four years ago as the graphics on the Earth Day posters and Tshirts this year.
   8) Taylor Malone agreed to seek NSGA participation and funding for Earth Day related activities and T shirts.
   9) Deb Hyde is registered for the E3 Sustainability Conference at OSU Stillwater on March 28-29, 2014. She will report back to the committee with what she learns at that event.

Next Meeting:

The next meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 25th at 3:30 PM in SL 126.

Combined NSU Committee for Sustainability and NSU Tree Campus Committee Meeting
Friday, November 1, 2013 at 2:00 PM
Tahlequah SC 163 and BA BT 125

I. Welcome and Introductions
This meeting was attended by Donna Agee, Mark Buckles, Sara Cheek, Craig Clifford, Tere Feller, Cynthia Hall, Deb Hyde and Dennis Moore.
New official members of the Committee for Sustainability were welcomed. The committee is waiting to hear who the NSGA representatives will be.
Given that there is now new membership and attendance to meetings has been light, Deb Hyde suggested that an up-dated doodle poll should be circulated to determine the meeting time which best suits members schedules. The attendees were in agreement.

II. NSU Tree Campus Committee Updates:
Deb Hyde reported that both Ronnie Grayson and Cynthia Hall have completed DotNetNuke website development training.
Deb Hyde briefed attendees on the status of the NSU Tree Campus application to the National Arbor Day Foundation.
Deb shared contents of an email from Ronnie Grayson explaining that she is expecting from Billy Barnett: a list of trees which were planted at last year's Arbor Day event and a list of tree related expenditures to include on this year's application.
It was reported that Monica Macklin's Forest Botany class has completed a survey of trees on the BA campus that will count as a service-learning project for the Arbor Day application. Members were encouraged to being thinking about a different service-learning project for next year now that Monica is retired.
NSU Tree Campus members should expect an email from Ronnie Grayson soon to assist with determining the official committee membership to be listed on the application document.
Donna Agee expressed concern about who should be contacted if a dead and/or dangling tree limb is spotted on campus. Deb Hyde explained that if it is a matter of safety, the physical plant should be contacted directly as soon as possible. The NSU Tree Campus Committee is a consultant group for promoting the aesthetic and educational purposes of trees on campus. As such the NSU Tree Campus Committee collaborates with the NSU Physical Plant regarding tree health and tree replacements.

III. Committee for Sustainability Updates:
Deb shared information in an email from Cassandra Ciglar from Nutrition and Dietetics who said that her club will be moving the End Hunger Games food drive to the spring semester. Deb Hyde suggested to Cassandra that this event could coincide with the Earth Day Celebration scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2014 from 3:00 6:00 PM since they are both community-enhancement types of events. The meeting attendees were in agreement.
Tere Feller suggested that the committee get the Earth Day Celebration on the University calendar as soon as possible to save the date. Deb Hyde agreed to do so.
Plans are in the beginning stages for the 2014 Earth Day Celebration. Deb Hyde hopes to contact organizations like STIR (Save the Illinois River) to collaborate on event publicity.
Attendees briefly discussed having music similar to last year's event and expansion of the number of booths for this year. Members were asked to begin brain-storming about exactly what the event should include. Deb Hyde shared the address to the national earth day website so that members could see what other communities are planning. https://www.earthday.org/
Deb Hyde shared with the group a couple of Sustainability articles that were in the news lately.
o https://tahlequahdailypress.com/features/x862161272/Community-Garden-taking-root-on-NSU-campus

IV. Next Meeting:
As per previously mentioned discussion, the next meeting is awaiting the result of the doodle poll to be distributed and should be between December 1 and 10, 2013.

Combined Committee for Sustainability and NSU Tree Campus Committee Meeting
Friday, September 29, 2013 at 2:00 PM
Tahlequah Seminary Hall 204 and BA AS 215

This meeting was attended by Billy Barnett, Craig Clifford, Jimmy Davenport, Tere Feller, Ronnie Grayson, Cynthia Hall, Larry Henley, Deb Hyde, Taylor Melone, Dennis Moore and Joseph Wells.

After a brief welcome and introductions, the meeting was turned over to Ronnie Grayson to discuss NSU Tree Campus Committee business.
Ronnie introduced the new student intern, Cynthia Hall, who will be assisting with compiling records for the Arbor Day application and other tasks such as Tree Campus website construction.

Ronnie explained that Monica Macklin's Forest Botany class is completing a survey of trees on the BA campus that will count as a service learning project for the Arbor Day application.
Ronnie explained that the current version of the NSU Tree Care Plan in now on the website. /sustainability/NSUTreeCampusCommittee/TreeCarePlan.aspx

The group discussed issues of vandalism which have affected some of the trees planted at previous Arbor Day events. Deb Hyde mentioned that having more students involved with the tree planting and tree care might help to curtail vandalism as personal investments of time and labor might induce students to watch out for vandals. Tree protection for newly planted trees was discussed and Larry Henley suggested maintaining consistency in tree protection structures.

Ronnie shared a list of the items still needed to complete this year's Arbor Day application. Facilities Management (Larry and Billy) are collecting data to document expenditures and will begin submitting information to Ronnie.

The meeting was turned over to Deb Hyde who shared Committee for Sustainability updates.
Deb shared the results of the email poll regarding scheduling conflicts for the National Food Day Celebration. All of the members who responded (7 of the 12 official committee members) agreed that the committee should put their efforts into supporting the End Hunger Games initiative to collect food for the local food pantry. Cassandra Ciglar from Nutrition and Dietetics club will be heading that event which may be tied to the NAB premier of the Hunger Games 2 in November.

Deb reminded attendees that NSU Health and Fitness Center is promoting the Rowdy's Walka Walka Club encouraging faculty, staff and students to get out and walk for fitness using the NSU fitness trails. Groups will be meeting (according to ability level) on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Libby Rogers sent out the original email.

Deb shared the Project Green Challenge for interested student groups to participate in during the month of October. http://www.projectgreeen challenge.com/

Joseph Wells and Taylor Melone from NSGA shared that student groups are particularly interested in making Earth Day 2014 bigger and better. They liked the live music and the T-shirts and would like to help plant things. Both the committees want to connect with student organizations and individual students interested in promoting sustainable initiatives.
The next meeting of the combined NSU Committee for Sustainability and NSU Tree Campus Committee is scheduled for Friday, November 1, 2013 at 2:00 PM. Location to be announced. This was moved back one week from the last Friday in October due to scheduling conflicts.

Combined Committee for Sustainability and NSU Tree Campus Committee Meeting

Friday, August 30, 2013 at 2:00 PM
Tahlequah Seminary Hall 204 and Broken Arrow Language Arts 114

This meeting was attended by Jon Asbill, Craig Clifford, Tere Feller, Ronnie Grayson, Deb Hyde and Suneeti Jog.
After a brief welcome and introductions, the meeting was turned over to Ronnie Grays to discuss NSU Tree Campus Committee business.
Ronnie explained the beginnings of and purpose for the NSU Tree Campus Committee. She explained the five standards required to attain designation with the National Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus USA recipient.
NSU has received this designation each of the past three years.
Ronnie explained that the NSU Tree Campus committee is in desperate need of more student involvement.
Ronnie also expressed her sincere concern about continuing as the committee chair given the amount of work needed to successfully apply with the National Arbor Day Foundation.
Jon Asbill suggested that the committee get in touch with the NAB to discuss collaborations that may produce more student participation.
Jon also agreed to review the current tree care plan and expenditures undertaken by the ground maintenance program.
Deb Hyde agreed to assist with the Tree Campus Committee website improvements as well as meeting organization in conjunction with the Committee for Sustainability.
Suneeti Jog brought up a concern with an invasive tree species located on campus near the President's residence. Jon Asbill said he would investigate the history of the tree in question and check into the possibility of having it removed.
The meeting was turned over to Deb Hyde who reminded members of the committee website location and Facebook page.
Deb briefly discussed the successes of last year's two events, the National Food Day Celebration which was held at Norris Park on October 24, 2013 and the Earth Day Celebration which was held on Centennial Square on April 22, 2013.
Members discussed possibilities for participation with the National Food Day Celebration this year. We are awaiting information from the Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce as to the best date before plans continue.
Deb informed the members of the committee's summer activities which included a new student created NSU Going Green blog with a link from our website http://brittanyharlow.wordpress.com/ and a table in the UC during the RiverHawk expo to incite more student involvement with our two annual events.
Jon Asbill suggested that we highlight some of the new green technologies incorporated in the new NSU Event Center, still under construction.
Members of the tree campus were particularly interested in the planned landscape design of the new center. As Jon explained it, there are simple green spaces incorporated into the exterior design of the center.
Members who have items to be included in the next meeting should email them to Deb Hyde at hyded@nsuok.edu
The next meeting of the combined NSU Committee for Sustainability and NSU Tree Campus Committee is scheduled for Friday, September 27, 2013 at 2:00 PM. Location to be announced.

Committee for Sustainability
Meeting Minutes
Friday, April 5, 2013 at 3:00 PM in SC 147
(Due to technical difficulties with internet service, we were unable to connect with the BA campus for this meeting.)
The Committee for Sustainability met of Friday, April 5, 2013 at 3:00 PM in SC 147. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Jon Asbill, Mark Carper, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer (Sustainable Tahlequah organization), Dennis Moore, and Mia Revels.
In Old Business:
It was announced that the committee is maintaining a presence on the University Planning Council and Deb Hyde attended the November 29, 2012 meeting. Deb will also inform the group when the Community Outreach Center Planning group will meet.
Deb Hyde was unable to show the improvements to the committee's website due to system technical difficulties at the time of the meeting.
In New Business:
It was announced that NSU's Tree Campus committee garnered national recognition as a Tree Campus USA member for the third year in a row. This year's Arbor Day Celebration will be held on Friday, April 12, 2013 from 2:30 3:50 PM in conjunction with the Native American Symposium also held at NSU. This year's celebration will include ceremonial plantings of native trees, native flute, and drum playing as well as a tour of NSU's Tahlequah campus trees lead by Monica Macklin. Dr. Craig Clifford will MC the event. Interested individuals or student or community groups should contact Ronnie Grayson for more information at graysonv@nsuok.edu .
Mark Carper, this year's NSU Tahlequah Earth Day Celebration lead organizer, unveiled the promotional posters for Earth Day at the meeting. Donna Agee agreed to get several of the posters stamped for approval to distribute to the designated bulletin boards around campus. Mark Carper plans to hang several posters in downtown Tahlequah announcing the Earth Day Celebration. Deb Hyde agreed to contact student organizations about presenting info about their group at tables which will also serve as Scavenger Hunt hubs. Organizations will need to provide an Earth Day, Environmental or Conservation type of question to be included with the Scavenger Hunt activity. The tables portion of the event will last from 4 7 PM.

Mark Carper announced that T shirts with the Earth Day logo should arrive at the RiverHawk Shoppe bookstore on or about April 18, 2013.
The group discussed various ways to get the word out and encourage people to attend the Earth Day events including: In the Loop, RiverHawks Weekly, the Marquee, UC Banner and the Northeastern newspaper.

George Kilmer, from the Sustainable Tahlequah Organization, announced a showing of a documentary and discussion titled: The Fluoride Deception to be aired at the UUCT at the corner of Delaware and College Ave in Tahlequah at 6:30 PM on April 5, 2013. Everyone was invited to attend.

It was announced that the Tahlequah Community Garden is now on NSU's Tahlequah campus. Julie Gahn wanted members to know that space for individuals to access may be available. If you are looking for a place to garden in town, please call Julie at 918-207-9107.

The meeting was adjourned by 4:00 PM.

Next Meeting:

The group discussed whether or not to schedule a meeting in May. It was decided that with preparations for finals and final week scheduling issues, it would be best to wait until August to schedule the next meeting.
Deb Hyde will send out a doodle poll to determine the best meeting time in August.

March 1, 2013 | 3:00pm | SC 147 and BALA 114

Meeting attendees included: Pam Christol, Eric Terdal, Mike Gibbons, David Lewerenz, Jenna Lighthizer, Denise Deason-Toyne, Joe Spence, Leslie Moyer, Mia Revels, Sandra Martin, Tere Feller, Tim Foutch and Deb Hyde.

In Old Business:
It was announced that the committee is maintaining a presence on the University Planning Council and Deb Hyde attended the November 29, 2012 meeting. Deb will also inform the group when the Community Outreach Center Planning group will meet.

Deb Hyde announced that she attended the Dot Net Nuke website training on January 29, 2013.

The Proposed Committee Purpose wording changes to reflect sustainability rather than public safety committee goals were approved by the President's cabinet. The new wording is reflected on the opening page of our website /sustainability/default.aspx . However, this change has not yet been incorporated into the committee description on NSU's committee page https://www.nsuok.edu/Administration/Committees/UniversityEnvironmentalSafetySustainability.aspx.

The committee's new Facebook page was announced. Members are encouraged to visit the Facebook site for information about upcoming events. https://www.facebook.com/SustainableNSU?ref=ts&fref=ts Volunteers to help administer the Facebook page were requested. Josh Hutchins volunteered. Additional volunteers are still needed. If members are interested, they should contact Deb Hyde or Mia Revels.

In New Business:
It was announced that NSU's Tree Campus committee is looking for interested people to assist with Arbor Day activities scheduled for Friday, April 12, 2013 during the Symposium on the American Indian. Interested individuals or student or community groups should contact Ronnie Grayson ASAP graysonv@nsuok.edu.

The national theme for this year's Earth Day celebration, The Face of Climate Change was announced. People are welcome to submit a picture of themselves to be included as part of a national awareness project. See details here https://www.earthday.org/. Deb Hyde announced that Mark Carper will be this year's NSU Tahlequah Earth Day Celebration lead organizer. At this time he has requested assistance with the marketing campaign by suggesting terms and phrases that reflect the values and goals of the event to embed on the leaves of the tree in the logo. See the highlighted portion of the attached flier.

Members of the committee really liked the logo on the flier and suggested having T shirts made with that logo. Mia Revels also suggested that some of the T shirts should be of the female cut variety. Discussion of the T shirts included the possibility of having them locally sourced and with substantial recycled material content.

George Kilmer, from the Sustainable Tahlequah Organization, suggested including a showing of the movie, Thrive . Members of the Committee for Sustainability should preview this movie at thrivemovement.com and provide feedback as to the suitability of this showing for NSU's Earth Day celebration. George also suggested that a debate could be staged to discuss the concepts in the movie.

Student, Nick Guzman, suggested handing out seed packets during the Earth Day celebration. Other discussion included the possibility of an Aluminum can collecting contest and/or roadside clean-up event in honor of Earth Day.

It was announced that there would be a special planning meeting for Earth Day on Tuesday 03.05.13 with the location forth coming. Tere Feller and Josh Hutchins agreed to attend. Deb Hyde is to announce the location once she is notified. Anyone interested in helping with this year's Earth Day Celebration can contact Mark Carper carperm@nsuok.edu

It was announced that the Tahlequah Community Garden is now on NSU's Tahlequah campus. Julie Gahn wanted members to know that space for individuals to access may be available. If you are looking for a place to garden in town, please call Julie at 918-207-9107.

Student Emily Schneider introduced the topic of improving recycling opportunities on campus. Josh Hutchins from Tahlequah Recycling Inc. informed the group regarding the recycling opportunities which are available currently as well as possibilities for improvements. The group was reminded about the new recycling bins recently installed in the University Center on the Tahlequah campus and learned about the educational/ public relations campaign planned as part of those installations. Deb Hyde explained that there are future hopes to expand the program to include similar bins in other places on campus if it proves successful in the UC.

The meeting was adjourned by 4:00 PM.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 5th at 3PM.

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November 2, 2012| 3:00pm | SL 129

The Committee for Sustainability met of Friday, November 2, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 129 and BA 219. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Andrew Aiken, Pam Christol, Brian Fields, Deb Hyde, Daniel McCarty, Dennis Moore, Mia Revels, Tere Feller, and Stuart Woods.

In Old Business:
It was announced that the committee is maintaining a presence on the University Planning Council and Deb Hyde plans to attend the next UPC meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 2:00 PM. Deb will also inform the group when the Community Outreach Center Planning group will meet..

The committee's new website is up (thanks to webmaster, Chris Greer and student worker, Johnny Whisman) and available at: /sustainability/default.aspx . Improvements are still under construction. When dotnetnuke website training becomes available, Deb Hyde plans to attend.

The committee's new Facebook page was announced. Members are encouraged to visit the Facebook site for information about upcoming events. https://www.facebook.com/SustainableNSU?ref=ts&fref=ts Volunteers to help administer the Facebook page were requested. Josh Hutchins volunteered. Additional volunteers are still needed. If members are interested, they should contact Deb Hyde or Mia Revels.

The group was reminded that Mark Carper was able to collect several electronic fliers published by Lake Region Electric Coop which can be distributed to students in the dorms this year. These electronic forms will also be available on the new website as a greener alternative to hardcopies.

It was reported that Tahlequah's first annual National Food Day Celebration which was held on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 at Norris Park was a big success. The celebration included a local food cook off contests as well as a variety of fun activities for the students and the community. Photos of the event are now available on the Sustainable NSU Facebook page.

In New Business:
The committee entertained an official proposal to modify the description of the committee's purpose as stated in our appointment letter from the administration to better suit our understood functionality. It was explained that if the committee voted to request modifications to the official description of committee function, said proposal would be forwarded to the President's office for administrative determination.

The stated purpose reads as follows:

This committee promotes environmental awareness, resource conservation and public safety. It serves as a recommending body to the administration concerning safety and environmental issues. The primary goal of the committee is to make the university a safer place to work and study. The committee reports to the vice president of operations.

The proposed modifications suggested by last year's committee are as follows with proposed changes highlighted:

This committee promotes environmental awareness, resource conservation and sustainable practices. It serves as a recommending body to the administration concerning these issues. The primary goal of the committee is to help the university adopt sustainable practices to protect the future of the university and the surrounding communities. The committee reports to the Vice President of Operations.

The committee voted unanimously in favor of the proposed changes.

It was also brought to the attention of the committee that the name, Committee for Sustainability was not retained in our official appointment letters. After some discussion, this change was not considered particularly problematic by the group.

Deb Hyde asked if the committee preferred to have their names linked to their University profiles on our new website. Consensus was that it did not matter, since that linkage is already provided on the University Committee webpage.

Pam Christol requested that a link on the new website be added to the Oklahoma Recycling Association (OKRA organization). Deb Hyde agreed to contact Johnny Whisman to request that addition to the links tab.

An email from Mark Carper was read to the group concerning ideas for organizing the 2013 Earth Day celebration. Members agreed that the committee should get an early start on preparations beginning in January. Daniel McCarty mentioned that Earth Day should coincide with Phase II of his proposed comprehensive recycling plan for the university. Deb Hyde agreed to contact Todd Enlow to see about attending upcoming planning meetings.

Next Meeting:
The committee agreed that we should reconvene at the beginning of the Spring, 2013 semester. Deb Hyde will send out a doodle poll in January to determine the best possible meeting time.

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October 5, 2012 | 3:00pm | SL 129

The Committee for Sustainability met of Friday, September 7, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Mark Carper, Josh Hutchins , Deb Hyde, Daniel McCarty, Libby Rogers and Mike Turner.

In Old Business:
Deb Hyde reported that the UPC met on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 2:00 PM. VP Tim Foutch was not in attendance, so no update was provided regarding the Carbon Footprint proposal to the UPC. Deb will also inform the group when the Community Outreach Center Planning group will meet.

The long-anticipated committee website is currently under construction by NSU's webmaster, Chris Greer. Deb Hyde has met with him twice and provided information and navigation requests. The group was asked for label recommendations for the link to committee's founding documents. It was decided that the name History and Initiatives would suit well to name the link. The group also provided input regarding the text for the opening screen of the new website. A draft will be distributed to the committee before being sent to Chris Greer for inclusion on the new website.

The committee's new Facebook page was announced. Members are encouraged to visit the Facebook site for information about upcoming events. https://www.facebook.com/SustainableNSU?ref=ts&fref=ts Volunteers to help administer the Facebook page were requested. Josh Hutchins volunteered. Additional volunteers are still needed. If members are interested, they should contact Deb Hyde or Mia Revels.

The group was reminded that Mark Carper was able to collect several electronic fliers published by Lake Region Electric Coop which can be distributed to students in the dorms this year. These electronic forms will also be available on the new website as a greener alternative to hardcopies.

The group was reminded that notification from Academic Affairs should be forthcoming to announce who the official members of the committee will be for this year. As in previous years, all interested persons are encouraged to attend the monthly meetings.

Mark Carper briefed the group on plans for the National Food Day Event that is scheduled for Wednesday, October 24, 2012 from 3 6 PM at Norris Park. The group agreed that the Committee for Sustainability would like to partner with the participating organizations which includes: Cherokee Nation Healthy Nations Initiative, Cherokee

County Food Policy Council, Sustainable Tahlequah, Tahlequah Care Food Pantry, NSU Permaculture Club, OSU Cooperative Extension Services, NSU Food, Nutrition, & Dietetics Club, Tahlequah Main Street Association, The Current, OSU Cooperative Extension Services, Tahlequah Farmers Market and the Tahlequah Community Garden. The event seeks to educate the public about the value of healthy, locally produced foods and will include a local food cook off contests as well as a variety of fun activities for the students and the community. Members are highly encouraged to attend this inaugural event.

In New Business:
Student, Daniel McCarty addressed the group concerning NSU and the possibility of providing comprehensive recycling of all recyclable materials as well as the possibilities of networking with others in the region (City of Tahlequah and Cherokee Nation). Josh Hutchins, of Tahlequah Recycling Inc., explained his company's role in NSU's current recycling plan as well as hopes to expand to other materials. Both speakers were reminded that our committee has no decision-making authority for NSU, but members encouraged them both to pursue future improvements to NSU's recycling efforts.

The group discussed the possibility of participation in the next week's Green-a-thon competition. It was decided that ample preparation time was not compatible with individual schedules this year.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting of the Committee for Sustainability is scheduled for Friday, November 2, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 126.

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September 7, 2012 | 3 p.m. | SL 126

The Committee for Sustainability met on Friday, September 7, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Mark Carper, Tere Feller, Ronnie Grayson, Deb Hyde, Jenna Lightinger, Daniel McCarty, Mia Revels and Libby Rogers. Upon opening the meeting Deb Hyde introduced herself and asked each person to introduce themselves to the group.

In Old Business:
It was announced that the UPC is scheduled to meet on Thursday, September 13, 2012 at 2:00 PM. Deb Hyde plans to attend and will report to the group on items related to sustainability initiatives. She will also inform the group when the Community Outreach Center Planning group will meet.

Plans for improving the Committee's website were discussed and Deb will contact NSU's webmaster, Chris Greer to discuss options.

The group discussed options for starting the committee's presence on Facebook with Mia Revels, who volunteered to help set up the site. Student, Daniel McCarty explained to the group some of the different options (such as the difference between a Facebook page versus a Facebook group .

The group was reminded that Mark Carper was able to collect several electronic fliers published by Lake Region Electric Coop which can be distributed to students in the dorms this year.

The group looked at photos from the Earth Day Recycled Fashion Show which was held last April.

In New Business:
The group was reminded that notification from Academic Affairs should be forthcoming to announce who the official members of the committee will be for this year. As in previous years all interested persons are encouraged to attend the monthly meetings.

Mark Carper briefed the group on plans for the National Food Day Event that is scheduled for Wednesday, October 24, 2012 from 4 7 PM at Norris Park. The group agreed that the Committee for Sustainability would like to partner with the participating organizations which includes: Cherokee Nation Healthy Nations Initiative, Cherokee County Food Policy Council, Sustainable Tahlequah, Tahlequah Care Food Pantry, NSU Permaculture Club, OSU Cooperative Extension Services, NSU Food, Nutrition, & Dietetics Club, Tahlequah Main Street Association, The Current, OSU Cooperative Extension Services, Tahlequah Farmers Market and the Tahlequah Community Garden. The event seeks to educate the public about the value of healthy, locally produced foods and will include a local food cook off contests as well as a variety of fun activities for the students and the community.

George Kilmer, who was unable to attend, previously emailed a question regarding a budget for the Committee for Sustainability. Deb explained that when the committee has a worthy sustainability initiative which requires funding, the request is forwarded to the President's cabinet where funding is determined on a case by case basis.

Julie Gahn, of the Sustainable Tahlequah Organization, informed the group of an impending agreement between the Tahlequah Community Gardens, sponsored by the First Lutheran Church, and NSU to move the Tahlequah Community Gardens to NSU property. The site in question is located beside the Heritage Trail behind the Rosemond House. Mia Revels commented that the site also has beneficial animal habitat that might be accommodated in the Community Garden plans.

Daniel McCarty asked the group if it would be in favor of an NSGA resolution to the NSGA Sustainability Subcommittee to connect with the Committee for Sustainability when planning events. He suggested that joining forces could be a benefit for both organizations. The group agreed. Daniel also explained that he would like for NSU to offer academic programs which stress sustainability such as a Waste Management program. The group suggested several possibilities to address this issue, including locating a faculty member to offer a Special Problems Sustainability Course to enlist interest.

Deb Hyde made the group aware of a website designed to help consumers choose sustainable products. https://www.ul.com/

Next Meeting:
Friday, October 5, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 126.

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April 18, 2012 | 3 p.m. | SL 126

The Committee for Sustainability met on Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at 3:00 PM in room SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Mark Carper, Phyllis Chappelle, Jonathan Fisher, Micah Hearns, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer, Mia Revels and Brian Stephenson.

In Old Business:
Deb Hyde provided copies of the minutes from the University Planning council's Proposed University Action Project concerning NSU's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint. Deb explained that the most recent Community Outreach meeting was scheduled for when she had class at OSU Tulsa. Plans are to notify committee members in the future to have a replacement attend the meeting if she is unavailable.

The following items were discussed concerning suggestions for this year's activities:

• The Meal Plan Spend-down Donations to a local food bank idea is still being considered for next year.

 

• Deb Hyde forwarded the information that Jon Asbill provided at a previous meeting concerning EcoPotential training to VP Tim Foutch for consideration.

 

• Mark Carper contacted the local utility company to inquire if they had educational information that could be distributed in the dorms. He obtained several educational handouts in digital format. He was told by Lake Region Electric Cooperative that a limited number of the flyers could be obtained as hard copy. Members discussed the possibility of providing these at dorm check in next fall.

 

• At the last meeting Donna Agee volunteered to contact the Northeastern newspaper about the possibility of starting a Go Green NSU box listing energy and water conservation tips in each issue.

 

• At the last meeting, Dennis Moore brought up the issue of the natural spring below the BT building. He explained that a pump runs continuously to keep water from the spring from flooding the basement. Members wondered if that water could be diverted to water landscape plantings, rather than sent down the storm drain or sewer costing NSU money. Deb Hyde volunteered to make inquiries as to where that water goes.

 

• At the last meeting, Deb Hyde shared the email sent by Melissa Cloud concerning a Facebook page for the Committee for Sustainability and connecting our future page to the NSU's Facebook page. Mia Revels volunteered to post items of interest on the Facebook account. She encouraged others to send her items to post once the page is up and running.

 

In New Business:
Earth Day 2012 plans were shared by each of the volunteer coordinators. Chuck Philpy, NSGA's President, was unable to attend the meeting to update the committee on Earth Day preparations. Deb Hyde showed a video of Doug Hyde (the Earth Day speaker.) Donna Agee updated the committee concerning the prizes and promotional items. Phyllis Chappelle and Tere Feller updated the committee concerning the Re-cycled Fashion Show plans. Brian Stevenson, the President of the Pre-Professional Health Club, updated the committee concerning the Organizational Tables. Micah Hearns updated the committee regarding the Art Contest. Deb Hyde read the email sent by Misty Chambless Rife concerning progress of the Essay Contest. Mark Carper updated the committee concerning the Musical Entertainment. The Student Geography club was volunteered to act as the set up/ tear down crew. Tentative Schedule for Earth Day (April 22, 2012)

• AM NSGA Service Event and Official Earth Day Kick-Off
• 1PM Set up
• 3-6PM Art and Essay Displays, Organizational Tables
• Second Century Square Activities
  • 3PM Re-Cycled Fashion Show
  • 4PM Speaker
  • 5PM Music
  • 6PM Tear down and Clean up

Deb Hyde announced that she had received a Public Service of Oklahoma Research Assistantship/Scholarship and one of the requirements of the scholarship was that she attend the Awards Ceremony on Earth Day. Since she could not afford to give up the scholarship, she regretfully informed the committee that should would not be able to attend NSU's Earth Day Event. Chuck Philpy and Brian Stevenson agreed to act in her behalf.

Next Meeting:
T.B.A. in August, 2012.

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March 28, 2012 | 4 p.m. | SL 126

Welcome /Sign-In and Introduction

In Old Business:
UPC update- met with HLC yesterday. Will begin to review new projects soon. UPC meets again on 4/5/12 at 2:30 PM

Community Outreach Umbrella Center meeting planned for April TBA

Suggestions for this year's activities:

• Meal Plan Spend-down donations to local food pantry pending completion of HLC visit
• Eco-Potential training for committee members- info forwarded to Tim Foutch
• Energy Conservation Awareness Campaign
• Committee for Sustainability on Facebook

In New Business
Earth Day 2012 April 22, - https://www.earthday.org/

NSU's Earth Day Celebration Updates from Volunteer Coordinators:

• Marketing and Finance - Chuck Philpy NSGA
• Service Event NSGA (Chuck Philpy)
• Speaker George Kilmer and NSGA (Chuck Philpy)
• Prizes and Promotional Items Donna Agee
• Re-cycled Fashion Show Phyllis Chappelle & Tere Feller
• Organizational Tables PreProfessional Health Club Brian Stevenson
• Art Contest Micah Hearns (Dr. Carper's student)
• Essay Contest Misty Chambless Rife (Dr. Carper's student)
• Music Mark Carper and Brett Fitzgerald
• Food - TBA
• Set up/Tear down crew - TBA

Tentative Schedule for Earth Day Celebration:

• 1 PM Set Up
• 3 6 PM Display Art and Essays, Organizational Tables

Tentative Second Century Square Stage Schedule:

• 3PM Recycled Fashion Show
• 4 PM Speaker (TBA)
• 5 PM Live Music (TBA)

Next Meeting:
Wednesday, April 18th at 3PM

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February 22, 2012 | 3:00pm | SL 126

The Committee for Sustainability met on Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at 3:00 PM in room SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Mark Carper, Phyllis Chappelle, Brian Fields, Tere Feller, Micah Hearns, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer, Dennis Moore, Charles Philpy, Mia Revels and Brian Stephenson.

In Old Business:
Deb Hyde provided copies of the minutes from the University Planning council and the NSU Outreach Planning Group meetings from earlier this month.

No items directly pertaining to sustainability were discussed this time.

The following items were discussed concerning suggestions for this year's activities:

• The Meal Plan Spend-down Donations to a local food bank idea was tabled until after the HLC visit.
• Deb Hyde forwarded the information that Jon Asbill provided at the last meeting concerning EcoPotential training to VP Tim Foutch for consideration.
• The idea for an Energy/Water Conservation Awareness Campaign was discussed. Mark Carper volunteered to contact the local utility company to inquire if they had educational information that could be distributed in the dorms. Donna Agee volunteered to contact the Northeastern newspaper about the possibility of starting a Go Green NSU box listing energy and water conservation tips in each issue.
• Dennis Moore brought up the issue of the natural spring below the BT building. He explained that a pump runs continuously to keep water from the spring from flooding the basement. Members wondered if that water could be diverted to water landscape plantings, rather than sent down the storm drain or sewer costing NSU money. Deb Hyde volunteered to make inquiries as to where that water goes.
• Deb Hyde shared the email sent by Melissa Cloud concerning a Facebook page for the Committee for Sustainability and connecting our future page to the NSU's Facebook page. Mia Revels volunteered to post items of interest on the Facebook account. She encouraged others to send her items to post once the page is up and running.

In New Business:
Earth Day 2012 plans were shared by each of the volunteer coordinators.

• Chuck Philpy, NSGA's President, updated the committee on the Marketing, Finance and Service Project planning. NSGA is planning a service project as a big Earth Day kick-off event the morning of April, 22, 2012.
• George Kilmer discussed some ideas for a speaker for the afternoon celebration.
• Donna Agee updated the committee concerning the prizes and promotional items.
• Phyllis Chappelle and Tere Feller updated the committee concerning the Re-cycled Fashion Show plans.
• Brian Stevenson, the President of the Pre-Professional Health Club, updated the committee concerning the Organizational Tables. Groups wishing to set up an Earth Day themed table to promote their organization can contact Brian at stephenb@nsuok.edu
• Micah Hearns updated the committee regarding the Art Contest. Deb Hyde read the email sent by Misty Chambless Rife concerning progress of the Essay Contest.
• Mark Carper updated the committee concerning the Musical Entertainment.
• Volunteer coordinators are still needed for the refreshments and the set up/ tear down crew.
• Tentative Schedule for Earth Day (April 22, 2012):
  • AM NSGA Service Event and Official Earth Day Kick-Off
  • 1PM Set up
  • 3-6PM Art and Essay Displays, Organizational Tables
  • Second Century Square Activities
  • 3PM Re-Cycled Fashion Show
    • 4PM Speaker
    • 5PM Music
    • 6PM Tear down and Clean up

George Kilmer spoke to the Committee about starting a book club style class about Sustainable Living that would be open to students, staff and faculty. Chuck Philpy borrowed Deb Hyde's copy of the book to share with his connections in NSGA and gauge student interest.

Mark Carper discussed the positive feedback he received when he shared environmental concerns of releasing balloons with the Alzheimer's Walk to Remember coordinator.

Mark Carper shared with the committee that NSU may soon have a Student Permaculture organization.

Next Meeting:
March 28, 2012 at 4:00 PM in SL 126.
Items for the agenda for that meeting should be emailed to Deb Hyde.

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January 25, 2012 | 3:00 | SL 126

The Committee for Sustainability met on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 3:00 PM in room SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Donna Agee, Jon Asbill, Mark Carper, Tere Feller, Jonathan Fisher, Ronnie Grayson, Kent Hawkins, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer, Nathan Kuntz, Dave Lewerenz, Libby Rogers, Mia Revels and Stuart Woods.

In Old Business:
Hyde has been in contact via email with student, Jacqueline Faulk, who has agreed to help with improvements to the committee's website.

Donna Agee has agreed to assist with coordinating this year's Earth Day Celebration. Additional coordinators are needed. Volunteers should email Deb Hyde at hyded@nsuok.edu.

The links to the Sustainable Tahlequah and Sustainable Tulsa Organizations are available via our website. Interested persons are encouraged to join those community list-serves for more information about regional sustainability events.

Jon Asbill explained that he has been in contact with Sodexo's management about the possibility of Meal Plan spend-down donations to a local food pantry. Parties are still in negotiation regarding that possibility. It was mentioned that the upcoming HLC visit could be pre-empting discussions of new programs at the administration level.

Deb Hyde explained that she will keep the committee informed regarding the future NSU Outreach center. Planning members are scheduled to meet on February 8th in Muskogee.

Jon Asbill brought information about the objectives and cost of an Eco-Potential training class titled, Your Role in the Green Environment and Green Advantage . Deb Hyde will forward this information to VP Tim Foutch for consideration.

More discussion concerning an Energy Conservation Awareness Campaign produced several ideas including:

• Trainings with the R.A.s and Residents Hall Association
• Producing handouts with Green Living recommendations to distribute in NSU housing (such as water conservation sticker on bathroom mirrors and hang tags on showers)
• Green living training during Rookie Bridge Camp

Discussion continued regarding our committee having a presence on Facebook. It was suggested that Deb Hyde contact Melissa Cloud in NSU's PR department to determine the procedure for approval before starting a Facebook Account. Once approved, Mia Revels agreed to assist with the management of the site, so long as she was not the only person with that responsibility. Volunteers should contact Deb Hyde.

In New Business:
Earth Day 2012 is officially Sunday, April 22, 2012. The national theme this year will be Mobilize the Earth For more information, the national website is https://www.earthday.org/

Deb Hyde explained that she has contacted VP Laura Boren, Sarah Johnson from NAB, Chuck Philpy from NSGA and indirectly, Kathleen Kennedy, Director of Campus Involvement and Student Activities asking for ideas for Earth Day awareness in which students would be willing to actively participate.

Donna Agee will find out when the next Student Government meeting will be held.

Ronnie Grayson suggested the committee invite specific student groups who have an interest in sustainability (Fish and Wildlife Club, SEMA etc.) to join the planning of the Earth Day Celebration.

Tere Feller explained that Phyllis Chappell had the idea to hold a repurposed Craft Show in conjunction with Earth Day festivities. She had in mind vendors who make attractive and useful items from various previously used materials to sell.

George Kilmer suggested we reserve the second century plaza area between the UC and the BT building on Wednesday, April 18 in the middle of the day for a gala fair which could include booths of organizations, speakers, music, art displays or art contests and essay contests all with Earth Day themes. Deb Hyde reminded the committee that last year we planned five events for the week of Earth Day and advertised widely but had low attendance. She suggested that his year we limit our efforts to one event and elicit more student participation.

Mark Carper asked and was granted permission to have some of his student contact Deb Hyde regarding service learning projects designed to assist with organizing and implementing events.

Libby Rogers presented her concept of the Be a Good Neighbor policy/program to the committee. Her idea was initiated as an unintended consequence of NSU's year old Tobacco Free campus ruling. She asked the committee if they thought such an initiative might be a good fit for our committee to promote. After some discussion, Deb Hyde suggested that since her initiative involved improving relationships and community building it might be a god fit with the future NSU Outreach Center. Deb Hyde agreed to contact the chair of the planning group, Dilene Crockett, to see if Libby Rogers could present the program to that group for consideration.

Deb Hyde made the committee aware of an upcoming free webinar about AASHE STARS and reducing survey fatigue. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, February 1st at 1PM. Interested persons may email Deb Hyde hyded@nsuok.edu and she will forward the link to the webinar registration.

George Kilmer requested some time be reserved during the next meeting to organize a book club-type sustainability class.

Next Meeting:
Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at 3:00 PM in SL 126.
Items for the agenda for that meeting should be emailed to Deb Hyde.

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November 16, 2011 | 3:00pm | SL 126

The Committee for Sustainability met on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at 3:00 PM in room SL 126. The following people were in attendance: Jon Asbill, Phyllis Chappell, Tere Feller, Jonathan Fisher, Ronnie Grayson, Deb Hyde, Dave Lewerenz, Jenna Lighthizer, Mia Revels, Joe Spence and Stuart Woods.

In Old Business:
The proceedings for the previous meeting were summarized.

Jon Asbill updated the committee on the conversation he had with Randy Shelton about a possible meal plan spend down program to donate food to a local food bank charity. He explained that the process, if implemented, would be complex, but they are looking into the possibility.

Jon also up-dated the committee concerning future Eco-Potential training. He is waiting for the trainer to formulate a cost assuming a group of 20 NSU people to be trained.

The Energy Conservation Awareness Campaign and Committee's potential Facebook page were not discussed at this meeting to allow time for new business items.

In New Business:
Ronnie Grayson was invited to speak to the Committee regarding a merger of the Tree Campus USA Committee as a sub-committee under the Committee for Sustainability. She explained the goals and activities of the Tree Campus Committee as well as the Tree Campus USA designation process. She explained that merger of the Committee could allow sharing of some resources, idea and manpower while allowing the Tree Campus Committee to retain their own individual identity. After some discussion, the Committee for Sustainability voted to welcome the Tree Campus USA Committee as a subcommittee. Deb Hyde and Ronnie Grayson will share information to keep both groups informed of upcoming opportunities provided by this new arrangement.

Bryan Buckley had previous email Deb Hyde to ask if the campus lighting safety issue is now under the Committee for Sustainability's review. Deb contacted committee member, VP Tim Foutch for clarification and shared his response with the committee. Joe Spence explained to the committee that an outside consultant is assisting NSU with upcoming lighting improvement projects. The Committee for Sustainability should address any lighting safety concerns to VP Tim Foutch so he can see if those are covered by the new lighting plan. The committee may also have recommendations concerning energy efficient design of planned new lighting. Joe Spence explained that those energy efficiency concerns are being address with the planned new lighting fixtures. However, not all types of lighting are possible due to the existing random wiring configuration that NSU has accumulated through the years.

Dr. Mia Revels announced the Indian Nations Audubon Society meeting that was to be held at NSU's Science LL 60 at 7 pm on Thursday, November 17, 2011.

Next Meeting:
A doodle poll will be distributed the first week in January to accommodate changing semester schedules. Subsequently, the most popular date and time for the next meeting will be announced via email.

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October 19, 2011 | 3:00pm | SC LL 62

The Committee for Sustainability met on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at 3:00 PM in room SC LL 62. The following Committee Members were in attendance: Donna Agee, Jon Asbill, Bran Buckley, Tere Feller, Jacqueline Faulk (student worker representing Dennis Moore), Deb Hyde, Mia Revels and Stuart Woods. A brief welcome was issued then members introduced themselves to the group. The intended function of the committee was then reviewed.
The majority of the meeting consisted of reviewing the list of sustainability related activities that occurred during the last school year. Discussion followed concerning each activity's relative success.

The next item was to invite members of the committee to assist with needed positions within the committee. Jacqueline Faulk volunteered to assist Deb Hyde with improving the committee's website. No volunteers were forthcoming to assist with note taking during the meeting, so that position was tabled. There was also a preliminary invitation for several co-coordinators to assist with Earth Day plans in the spring. Donna Agee volunteered to serve as one of the co-coordinators. More volunteers are welcome.

There was discussion concerning inviting students and interested individuals from the community to attend future meetings. The committee was in agreement to invite both students and community individuals to future meetings.

Members were invited to join the Sustainable Tahlequah organizations list serve if they were interested in getting notifications about regional sustainability activities.

It was announced that Julie Gahn of the Sustainable Tahlequah organization has organized a Permaculture Workshop to be held at NSU November 4th 7th. Interested persons should contact Julie via email at juliegahn@yahoo.com for more information.

The next item was an overview of the University Planning Council's list for Plans to Reduce NSU's Carbon Footprint as reported at the 10.18.11 meeting of the U.P.C.

Next, suggestions were collected for activities for this school year. Jon Asbill suggested that a program might be organized allowing students who wish to spend down excess meal points at the end of the semester be able to donate that food to a local food bank or shelter. Jon agreed to contact David Wilcox (from Sodexho) and Randy Shelton to see if such a plan might be feasible.

Jon also suggested that it might be beneficial to offer Eco-Potential training to members of the Committee for Sustainability. He explained that the Eco-Potential training provides background information allowing participants to identify both good and bad building and operations management situations in terms of sustainability.

Deb Hyde brought up the idea of organizing an Energy and Water Conservation Awareness Campaign on all 3 campuses.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting was set for Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at 3:00PM at a location to be determined later.

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April 15, 2011 | 3:00 | SL 129 and BA SC 219

Meeting Attendees included: Donna Agee, Phyllis Chappelle, Caleb Dobbs, Tere Feller, Josh Hutchins, Deb Hyde, Dave Lewerenz, Sandra Martin, Mia Revels and Jonathan Willinger

In Old Business:
Improvements to the website are currently awaiting approval to move it to the main NSU website.

A consensus was reached to table the book/discussion group centered on Northwest Earth Institute's text titled, Ideas for Sustainable Living until the fall semester to allow time for better organization.

4 Part Survey Monkey feedback concerning the NSU Sustainability recommendations from Dr. Kelley Cain's October, 2010 report was distributed and will be taken under consideration during the upcoming Sustainability retreat.

Attendees were reminded that they needed to email Melissa Parton parton@nsuok.edu if they plan to attend the Sustainability Retreat at the end of the month. Deb Hyde has already forwarded the email addresses of the volunteers who signed up at the last meeting.

The remainder of the old business centered on Earth Day plans. Plans include:

• Saturday, April 16th: Tahlequah Farmers Market Opening Day Norris Park 8 Am noon
• Saturday, April 16th: Healthy Building Materials Seminar Sponsored by Sustainable Tahlequah Webb 614 at 7:00 PM.
• April 18-22, John Vaughan Library Earth Day Related Book Display and reading list.
• Monday, April 18th: Re-Sculpt 2 Entries Due Artists create fantastic Recycled sculptures Open to everyone Sponsored by the John Vaughan Library
• Don't Waste a Day Recycling Awareness Event meeting at the football stadium parking lot at 4:00 PM. Sponsored by the NSU Committee for Sustainability, and Tahlequah Recycling Inc.
• Tuesday, April 19th Gasland Documentary about the environmental effects of petroleum extraction 6:30 PM Tah. Webb 614 and BA SC 219 Sponsored by NSEA
• Wednesday, April 20th Plan B: Mobilizing to Save Civilization by Lester Brown, a documentary about climate change 5:30 PM Webb 614 and BA Sc 219. Complements of the NSU Office of University Relations and Sponsored by the NSU Committee for Sustainability.
• Thursday, April 21st The Economics of Happiness documentary 6:30 PM Webb 614 Sponsored by the Sustainable Tahlequah organization.
• Friday, April 22nd EARTH DAY!! Groups Celebrating Earth Day Norris Park 2 6 PM and ^ - 9 PM at Iguana Caf open mike Songwriters Performing River Culture original music Sponsored by S.T.I.R.

In New Business:
A late addition to the Earth Day activities was announced. The Cherokee Nation Environmental department is sponsoring a Litter Cleanup. STIR members and volunteers will take part. (Contact Ed Brocksmith for details.)

It was stressed to volunteers of the upcoming Sustainability Retreat that our task will be to formulate 1, 3 and 5 year plans for NSU. Other non-NSU interested parties are welcome, but need to be aware of primary intent.

Josh Hutchins from Tahlequah Recycling Inc. inquired about a university wide recycling RFP which he was under the understanding was being generated. After some discussion, it was explained that this issue can be included as part of the Sustainability Retreat dialog.

The meeting was adjourned at 3:45 PM.

Next Meeting:
There was discussion concerning the next scheduled committee meeting. The consensus was to hold the next regular monthly meeting in August, unless something comes up during the Sustainability Retreat that requires the committee's immediate attention. Time and location to be announced later.

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March 25, 2011 | 3:00pm | SL 129 and BA SC 219

Meeting Attendees included: Donna Agee, Tere Feller, Josh Hutchins, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer, Dave Lewerenz, Sandra Martin, William Metcalfe, Dennis More, and Mia Revels.

In Old Business:
Improvements to the website are currently awaiting approval to move it to the main NSU website.

It was announced that we may have one volunteer to lead a book/discussion group centered on Northwest Earth Institute's text titled, Ideas for Sustainable Living . Information was emailed to the volunteer leader. However, additional volunteers are still needed.

4 Part Survey Monkey feedback concerning the NSU Sustainability recommendations from Dr. Kelley Cain's October, 2010 report was distributed and will be taken under consideration during the upcoming Sustainability retreat.

The committee responded indifferently to the invitation sent by Green Hands USA, so it was suggested that individuals or groups could accesses the service as they saw fit, but the NSU Committee for Sustainability would not join or post activities through this service at this time.

A sign-up sheet for people who plan to attend the Sustainability Retreat Friday, April 29, 2011 from 12:00 until 5:00 PM and Saturday April 30, 2011 from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM in the US Morgan Room on the Tahlequah campus was circulated. So far nine individuals from this group plan to attend. More people are welcome, but must sign up by Friday, April 22, 2011 when numbers will be forwarded to Mark Kinders.

The remainder of the old business centered on Earth Day plans. Tentative plans include:

• Thursday, April 7th: The Nature of Love Environmentally-Friendly Speed Dating Event Sponsored by NSEA Time and location TBA
• Saturday, April 16th: Tahlequah Farmers Market Opening Day Norris Park 8 Am noon
• Saturday, April 16th: Healthy Building Materials Seminar Sponsored by Sustainable Tahlequah info TBA
• Monday, April 18th: Re-Sculpt 2 Entries Due Artists create fantastic Recycled sculptures Open to everyone Sponsored by the John Vaughan Library
• Don't Waste a Day Recycling Awareness Event U.C. South Lawn (4PM?) Sponsored by the NSU Committee for Sustainability, RHA, and Tahlequah Recycling
• Tuesday, April 19th Gasland Documentary about the environmental effects of petroleum extraction 6:30 PM (UC Morgan Rm or Webb 614) Sponsored by NSEA
• Wednesday, April 20th Documentary about Climate Change 5:30 PM Webb 614 Sponsored by the Committee for Sustainability
• Thursday, April 21st The Economics of Happiness documentary 6:30 PM Webb 614 Sponsored by Sustainable Tahlequah
• Friday, April 22nd EARTH DAY!! Groups Celebrating Earth Day Norris Park 2 6 PM and ^ - 9 PM at Iguana Caf open mike Songwriters Performing River Culture original music Sponsored by S.T.I.R.

In New Business:
There was discussion concerning the next scheduled committee meeting falling on Earth Day. It was recommended that the meeting be moved up by one week to allow for last minute Earth Day preparations and also to allow members to participate in the festivities on the 22nd. The measure was voted on and passed.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:05 PM.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting will be held on Friday, April 15, 2011 at 3:00 PM in Tah. SL 129 and BA SC 219.

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February 25, 2011 | 3:00pm | SL 129 and BA 219

Meeting Attendees included: Phyllis Chappell, Pam Christol, Tere Feller, Deb Hyde, George Kilmer, Jenna Lighthizer, Sandra Martin, Joe Spence and Jon Willinger

In Old Business:
Dr. Pam Hathorn has sent an email to Melissa Cloud requesting that a link to our website be placed under the Outreach heading on NSU's main page.

It was announced that we may have one volunteer to lead a book/discussion group centered on Northwest Earth Institute's text titled, Ideas for Sustainable Living . Additional volunteers are still needed.

George Kilmer, representing the Sustainable Tahlequah organization, updated the committee regarding the 70 fruit trees donated to NSU. Joe Spence's staff is planting them as they arrive. The Committee wishes to express gratitude to both the Sustainable Tahlequah organization for donating the trees and to the NSU grounds maintenance department for all their hard work in planting the fruit trees.

Joe Spence expressed his concern over the public's expectation of bountiful fruit harvests, given that many young saplings could be killed by vandals and the future need for pesticides without funding for such. Tere Feller introduced the idea of placing signs near the new trees with a simple message explaining who donated the trees and why they are there. Discussion among committee members then turned to how to fund the sign production, to be decided later.

There was also discussion concerning the need for a walking trail map with distances listed for the Tahlequah campus. Joe Spence has provided this and copies were emailed to the committee. Our thanks to Joe for that helpful tool.

The 4 part SurveyMonkey poll on Sustainability Recommendations was redistributed with an extended deadline of Friday, March 4, 2011. This poll will be helpful as preparation for the upcoming Sustainability Retreat, as explained in the New Business section.

The remainder of the old business centered on Earth Day plans. Deb Hyde will be collecting Earth Day plans from University and local organizations to put on our website. The committee discussed plans from the Library, NSEA student organization, NAB, STIR, Sustainable Tahlequah, the Tahlequah Farmers Market and the RiverHawk shoppe.

After some discussion, it was decided that Deb will contact Cole at the RiverHawk Shoppe to discuss the possibility of three Earth Day related promotional items. The three items are:

• more T-shirts identical to the ones sold last year,
• reusable grocery bags, made from recycled material, with our logo on them
• and stainless steel water bottles, made from recycled stainless steel, with our logo on them.

The committee would also like to promote a Three-part Earth Day Presentation Series which would include a showing of the documentary Gas Land sponsored by NSEA, a showing of the documentary The Economics of Happiness sponsored by the Sustainable Tahlequah organization, and a yet- to-be-named speaker (either from the Task force recommendations or by a recommendation by Dr. Betz). Deb Hyde will contact Dr. Betz's office to determine feasibility and possible venues for this Three-part Earth Day Presentation Series.

In New Business:
The Sustainability Retreat with Dr Kelly Cain and Dr Connie Foster of the University of Wisconsin at River Falls is planned for Friday April 29, 2011 from noon until 5:00 PM and Saturday, April 30, 2011 from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM on the Tahlequah campus, third floor Morgan Room in the University Center. According to Mark Kinders email, here is the tentative agenda for the retreat:

• Friday, April 29, noon-5 p.m. Morgan Room. Finding common ground understanding of sustainability goals and objectives both on- and off-campus. On campus this means reducing our carbon footprint. In our region this means building sustainable communities--economically, environmentally, sociologically--rooted in the concepts of Making Place Matter.
  
  Saturday, April 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Morgan Room. We will review, discuss and prioritize the action and tactical options contained in the campuses/communities review conducted in October by Dr. Kelly Cain, UWRF St. Croix Institute for Sustainable Community Development

We will need to know exactly how many people plan to attend the Sustainability Retreat by our regularly April meeting on 4/22/11. Deb Hyde will forward that number to Mark Kinders office.

The organization called Green Hands USA contacted us to see if we wanted to list our environmental initiatives and activities with their organization. They allow the public to search for activities in their area by zip code.

Deb Hyde will email a copy of the Campus Tree Survey done by Monica Macklin's Forest Botany class rating the types and health of all of the trees on the Tahlequah campus, in case anyone is interested.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:00 PM.

Next Meeting:
Friday, March 25, 2011 at 3:00 PM in Tah. SL 129 and BA SC 219.

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January 21, 2011 | 4:00pm | SL 129 and BA 219

Meeting Attendees included: Leslie Moyer, George Kilmer, Joe Spence, Dennis Moore, Mia Revels, Julie Gahn, Donna Agee, Mark Kinders, Sandra Martin, David Lewerenz, Jenna Lighthizer, Tere Feller, Mike Turner, Ronnie Grayson and Deb Hyde

In Old Business:
The improvements to the NSU green website were reviewed including the announcement for the Tar Creek Documentary sponsored by NAB, to be aired Tuesday, January 25, 2011 from 6:00 8:00 PM in the Webb Auditorium.

Members who are interested in leading a book discussion group for the Choices for Sustainable Living book published by Northwest Earth Institute should email Deb Hyde.

George Kilmer and Joe Spence are still planning to meet to discuss the possibility of NSU receiving some of the fruit trees from the Sustainable Tahlequah grant.

It was announced that the Pepsico Dream Machine roll-out event will occur Monday, January 25, 2011 at noon in the UC basement.

Recommendations from Dr. Kelly Cain's final report have been incorporated into a surveymonkey poll to be emailed to members. The goal of the survey is to determine the committee's responses regarding suitability and implementation of each recommendation. Feedback on the poll needs to be completed by Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 5:00 PM.

There was discussion concerning a potential grant opportunity for a Tahlequah fitness trail. First impressions were that NSU likely did not meet the qualifications for this funding. However the information was circulated in case it became useful for other civic groups.

In New Business:
Members who have ideas for this year's Earth Day celebration are encouraged to email them to Deb Hyde.

The focus of the remainder of the meeting was for the speaker, Vice President Mark Kinders, to explain NSU's sustainability Planning efforts. He began by explaining that Dr. Cain's planned February visit to NSU will be delayed until the Sustainability Retreat in April. NSU's major sustainability efforts include:

• Conducting a Sustainability Retreat with the goal of creating 1, 3 and 5 year Sustainability plans for NSU. There will be an open-call for interested participants. The exact dates, times and locations are yet to be determined, but are expected to be one Friday evening and all day Saturday in April.
• Consideration of participating in AASHE (Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education) STARS program (Sustainability Tracking Assessment and Rating System).
• Consideration of participation in SCUP step III training (Society for College and University Planning)
• Creation of a Carbon Footprint benchmark by converting NSU's eight year old Energy Audit. There was discussion that this step might lend itself to student involvement. Mike Turner mentioned that his student club could help and Deb Hyde mentioned that her Environmental Geology class could help with the process.

Meeting was adjourned at 4:40 PM

Next Meeting:
The next committee meeting will be during the third week of February to be determined by doodle poll.

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January 7, 2011 | 3:00pm | SL 129 and BA SC 219

Meeting attendees included: Pam Christol, Eric Terdal, Mike Gibbons, David Lewerenz, Jenna Lighthizer, Denise Deason-Toyne, Joe Spence, Leslie Moyer, Mia Revels, Sandra Martin, Tere Feller, Tim Foutch and Deb Hyde.

In Old Business:
It was announced that the website is up and running, but still under construction. After improvements are made, Deb will contact the Public Relations department to see about having a link installed on NSU's main page under Outreach .

Suggestions for improving the website can be sent to hyded@nsuok.edu.

It was suggested that a general email could be sent out to the NSU community to gauge interest in starting a book discussion group using NWEI's essay collection called Choices for Sustainable Living as a focus.

Leslie gave an update of the fruit trees that the Sustainable Tahlequah organization will be receiving in February. George Kilmer and Joe Spence are to work out details of the possibility of the Tahlequah campus receiving some fruit trees. Leslie explained that the grant that paid for the 450 trees specifies that they are to be planted in public spaces in Cherokee, Adair, Delaware and Sequoyah counties.

Tim Foutch gave an update on the Pepsico Dream Machine. The Tahlequah campus should receive their machine next week. Delivery of 50 recycling bins has already taken place. Details of the internal reward marketing system are in the works.

David Lewerenz agreed to sponsor the student sustainability organization which requested a faculty sponsor at the last meeting. He noted that there are apparently more than one student group with similar agendas on the Tahlequah campus.

In New Business:
NSU has sent off the application for the National Arbor Day Tree City USA designation and is now awaiting the results.

VP Mark Kinders wants to visit with the committee about NSU's sustainability planning in the near future. Deb will send out a doodle poll with his available times to set our next meeting. Topics will include: the institutional inventory of sustainability expertise, Dr. Kelly Cain's visit February 11th and 12th, NSU's five year sustainability plan and the open-call for the two-day sustainability retreat in April.

Deb will create and distribute documentation to determine the group's reaction to each of the suggestions in Dr Cain's report. The document will ask participants to rate both the potential suitability of the item to NSU's particular situation and the suggested implementation time frame for that item.

Mia brought up the idea of the Tahlequah campus building a walking trail similar to the one in Broken Arrow around the perimeter of the University. Such a trail could be utilized by classes doing local natural research and also to increase fitness opportunities for the healthy campus initiative. Tim addressed how the trail on the B.A. campus was funded. Joe stated that such a trail for the Tahlequah campus has been in the long range plans for some time and some drafts of its potential location have been created. Leslie added that collaborating with existing area plans like Cherokee Nation's Cherokee Green Way Project or other foundations support might be options to research.

The meeting adjourned at 3:30 PM.

Next Meeting:
The meeting with VP Mark Kinders will be determined by the results of the doodle poll and announced by Tuesday, January 11, 2011.

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November 30, 2010 | 4:00pm

The group formerly known as the Campus Environment and Sustainability Committee met on Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 4:00PM. The meeting was attended by 17 members and guests including two distinguished guests, Dr. Betz and Dr. Tadlock.

The meeting was opened by the Committee's chair, Dr. Mia Revels who introduced Dr. Betz as the first speaker. Dr. Betz addressed the committee explaining the importance of sustainability as a concept and NSU's commitment to these issues. He further explained the decision to reposition the group to the status of a full University Committee.

Dr. Betz reminded the committee that the University Planning Group has listed Sustainability as a priority in moving the institution forward in its second century. Elevating the status of the committee aligns efforts with the goals of the U.P.G.

Next, Dr. Betz announced that Dr. Revels would be stepping down as chair of the committee in order to pursue her ornithological research more vigorously. The committee joined Dr. Betz in thanking Dr. Revels for all her years of work chairing the committee. He then announced that Deborah Hyde from the Department of Natural Science would assume the position effective January 1, 2010.

Dr. Tadlock was the next to speak, explaining that the committee should inventory sustainability efforts and resources and communicate them to the rest of the University. Any items that require budgetary consideration for next year would need to be identified by March, 2011.

In new business, the group undertook discussion on changing the name of the committee. Three issues were identified to help formulate the new name:

1. The old name was too long
2. The word campus seemed to exclude community involvement
3. People tend to remember the last word they hear in a name.

After the discussion period, a vote of 13 to 3 with 1 abstention preferred the name Committee for Sustainability to the option Sustainability Committee .

For other new business, student Jon Willinger requested faculty member volunteer to sponsor a new student sustainability club. One member showed interest.

Finally, it was decided that the newly named Committee for Sustainability should meet the second week of January, 2011. An email poll will be circulated to determine the most suitable time. The meeting was adjourned in time for members to enjoy the Lights on ceremony downtown.