Exploring the Legacy of Student-Led Projects at Evergreen with our newest academic program.

Recently, I had the opportunity to engage with a group of motivated students during a workshop session with Evergreen’s new Edible Campus academic program. This experience was not only a showcase of student ingenuity but also a reflection on the powerful legacy of student-originated projects that continue to shape our campus. It was during this session that I witnessed firsthand how students are driving change through hands-on work in sustainability, community well-being, and innovative design. 

Cynthia Kennedy set the stage by introducing me to the students, prompting them to try to guess just how many student-initiated projects have impacted Evergreen’s infrastructure. The 50 students (many of them first-year students) estimated the number to be between around 4 or 8, with a few guessing 30. A single student boldly guessed 100. By the end they learnt that there are over 160 student-led projects (that I personally know of) cataloged in the Greener Project Database, and that’s just the ones that have been able to catalog successfully thus far. 

We then embarked on the two-hour walking tour, exploring key sites across campus that highlight the sustainable initiatives students have brought to life so they could learn from and implement lessons to their own upcoming work. Starting at the Seminar 2 building, we ventured through various community gardens, the covered pavilion (affectionately known as the Thunderdome), and residential areas where students actively participate in permaculture and sustainable living practices. We also visited the aquaponics greenhouse, a prime example of how students are addressing food insecurity while maintaining a close connection to the land and sciences. 

One particularly exciting stop on the tour was the intended site for the return of the campus bike shop, an important project that will not only support sustainable transportation but also create a community hub for students interested in cycling culture and repair work. We wrapped up our journey at the House of Welcome Longhouse, where we discussed ongoing work in the botanical gardens, emphasizing the integration of Indigenous knowledge and community stewardship. And I acknowledged the presence of my own very first project at Evergreen, a wood drying shed still standing more than a decade later from 2013. 

We also didn’t shy away from the reality of when projects fail. I explained how my very first attempt at a project led to total disaster. But how it genuinely was the best thing that could’ve happened for me (leading to the aforementioned successful drying shed). And they saw first hand the difference between a garden with a plan and one without.

Throughout the tour, we talked about practical tools for student projects, like the principles of design thinking, the power of GANNT charts for project planning, and understanding the organizational structure of The Evergreen State College. Some were particularly interested in the funding opportunities available through the Clean Energy Committee, which provides financial support for student-led sustainability projects. I was happy to support Cynthia and Steve’s work with this program. As this kind of real-world application of academic learning allows students to take their ideas from concept to reality, turning Evergreen into a living laboratory for change. 

What was perhaps most inspiring was hearing from students about their own ideas and what they hope to bring to the campus community. Many of these students are experiencing in-person instruction for the first time in their higher education academic careers, and their eagerness to solve problems was contagious. They weren’t simply identifying issues—they were actively brainstorming solutions and exploring ways to make Evergreen a better, more sustainable place for everyone. Even down to how to make Red Square less slippery in the rainy seasons! 

The work students are doing now echoes the hopeful, regenerative future that solarpunk envisions—where people live in harmony with the environment, harness technology for the greater good, and build resilient, connected communities. Evergreen, in many ways, embodies these values already, and it was exciting to share that connection with these students. 

As we continue to support these efforts through programs like Edible Campus and other sustainability initiatives, I am filled with hope for what the future (and Evergreen) holds! The students I met on this tour are not only passionate but also deeply committed to making a difference. Their work is a testament to the potential of student-led projects to transform our campus and inspire broader change. I look forward to seeing their ideas take shape in the coming months and years, and I hope they continue to build a campus—and a world—that reflects their values and vision. 

Realizing through first-year students how Empathy, Environment, and Leadership Resonate with Evergreen’s Mission.

On September 24th, the Climate Center hosted with the Experiential Learning Hub a film screening of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind as part of the campus Orientation Week. This wasn’t just any movie night; it was a deeply reflective experience for many students, and it offered more than just entertainment. The themes of environmentalism, leadership, and the solarpunk way of life intertwined with the lived experiences and aspirations of the Evergreen student body. 

I was struck by how the film served as a mirror to so many of the issues we care about in our academic and personal lives—sustainability, social justice, and the need for balance between technology and nature. As Aeowyn, one of our senior student workers, put it in her introduction of the film, Nausicaä is about a young woman growing into an activist and a leader, standing between the forces of destruction and renewal. Her journey, set in a post-apocalyptic world where people have rebuilt their lives in harmony with the land, feels remarkably close to the solarpunk ideals that are gaining momentum today. Solarpunk imagines a future where technology and nature coexist in symbiosis, and that’s exactly what the people of the Valley of the Wind demonstrate—living sustainably in a world that has been ravaged but still holds beauty and hope. 

The students and staff who attended—nearly 60 of them—were visibly moved by the film. Many were seeing it for the first time, while others, like myself, had grown up with it. The event felt intimate, despite the full room. We had set up comfortable spaces, served fresh fruit and veggies snacks from our own campus Organic Farm, and welcomed everyone with classic popcorn from Student Activities. Intended to make the space feel safe and inclusive, particularly with the heavier themes present in the film, including environmental collapse, violence, and the lasting scars of war. 

One of the most powerful aspects of the event were the (unintended) post-film discussion (like true Greeners many of us couldn’t refrain from seminaring on what we’d just seen). Students and staff began to share how Nausicaä sparked their own thoughts on activism, climate justice, and leadership. They resonated with the way Nausicaä blends scientific inquiry—she collects data, studies plants, and constantly tests her environment—with a more intuitive, almost spiritual understanding of the world. This duality reminded many of us of how we, as individuals and communities, navigate different ways of knowing. Nausicaä’s use of both Western scientific methodologies and Indigenous wisdom resonated deeply with students. Her ability to unite people not through force, but through empathy, learning, and leadership, mirrors the kind of change we aspire to foster on campus and beyond. 

As I reflected on the event afterward, I realized how important it is to provide students with examples of both the challenges and the possibilities that lie ahead of us. Nausicaä shows a world on the brink of collapse, but also one where small communities have figured out how to live in balance with the environment—a vision that felt especially pertinent in a time of growing climate anxiety. The students saw characters who grappled with power, corruption, and greed, but who ultimately found ways to heal both the land and their societies. It’s a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, there’s room for hope, ingenuity, and collective action. 

This screening was more than just the start of the school year; it was a way to begin conversations about the roles we each play in shaping the future. As we watched the film together, we were reminded of the different ways people can contribute to social change. Whether as storytellers, healers, builders, or guides, the characters in Nausicaä embody many of these roles, and students were quick to see themselves reflected in these archetypes. Nausicaä herself is an inspiring example of how to lead with both strength and compassion—a message I hope will stay with students throughout the year. 

Hosting this event reaffirmed the power of storytelling as a tool for sparking social imagination. It wasn’t just about watching a movie; it was about connecting with each other, thinking critically about the world we live in, and exploring what’s possible. And as we continue our work on campus, whether through climate action projects, internships, or student-led initiatives, the themes of Nausicaä will likely serve as a guiding light—reminding us that even in the most difficult times, we have the capacity to create a better future.

A Day of Inspiration and Collaboration: Reflections on the WAHESC Annual Meetup at UW

On Wednesday, August 28th, I made the drive from Olympia to Seattle, eagerly anticipating the annual Washington Higher Education Sustainability Conference (WAHESC) meetup. A part of WOHESC‘s Washington side. As someone deeply involved in sustainability efforts at Evergreen State College, this gathering was more than just a networking opportunity—it was a chance to reconnect, share ideas, and find inspiration among a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to climate action and sustainability.

A Walk Through UW: Integrating Nature, Humanity, and Urban Spaces

After gathering, our day began with a walk-and-talk tour around the University of Washington campus, where we explored how this urban institution works to integrate nature and human development. One of the most memorable spots was a secluded area that Daimon, UW Sustainability’s Communications Coordinator, referred to as a “secret garden.” Tucked away from the bustling urban environment of Seattle, this quiet space felt like stepping into another world—a peaceful retreat where nature reclaims its place among the cityscape. Walking through hidden branches, we entered this serene spot, and it was easy to see why it’s a favorite among those who seek a moment of calm in their busy lives.

As we continued our tour, Daimon shared a touching anecdote about the campus’s iconic fountain. Every spring, mama ducks lead their ducklings to the fountain, but the little ones often struggle to climb out on their own. In response, the university installs a ramp each year to help the ducklings safely exit the water. This simple yet thoughtful solution perfectly encapsulates  UW’s approach to sustainability: using human ingenuity and technology to address caused issues and strive to coexist harmoniously with the natural world.

Another highlight of the tour was our visit to a building designed with biophilic principles—a concept I was newly introduced to. Biophilic design focuses on enhancing the natural aspects of a space rather than hiding them. The building’s wooden interior, with its visible textures and natural elements, stood as a testament to this philosophy. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of bringing nature into our built environments, not just as an aesthetic choice, but as a way to foster well-being and connection to the natural world.

Inspiring Conversations and Collaborative Exchanges

The tour wasn’t just about exploring the campus; it was about the conversations that took place along the way. I had the opportunity to speak with Danny, the director of UW’s Campus Sustainability Fund (similar to our own Clean Energy Committee), about the challenges and successes we’ve both encountered in our roles. As two individuals that recently entered into leadership positions in sustainability, it was incredibly validating to hear about the similar hurdles we’ve faced and the strategies we’ve used to overcome them.

These conversations highlighted the collaborative spirit of WAHESC. One particularly exciting moment was when I shared an idea for the Greener Project database that we’ve been developing at Evergreen. To my surprise, this concept sparked interest among other attendees, leading to discussions about creating a shared online tools library for WAHESC members. This collective resource could serve as a repository for sustainability projects, educational tools, and engagement activities, accessible to all participating institutions.

The idea of student engagement was another recurring theme throughout the day. We exchanged strategies on how to better involve students in sustainability efforts, with one standout example coming from Bellevue College, where students participated in a mountain biking tour of a wind turbine farm. This kind of hands-on, experiential learning is something we’re excited to explore further at Evergreen, inspired by the innovative approaches shared at this meetup. And now CCAS hops to lead a similar trip with Evergreen’s SWS and TOP program.

A Legacy of Sustainability: The Medicinal Garden and Indigenous Stewardship

Our tour also took us to a historic medicinal garden, a living relic from the UW medical school’s early days. While modern medicine has evolved, this garden remains a powerful symbol of the university’s roots and its ongoing commitment to sustainability. The garden not only preserves the history of medicinal plants but also ties into the broader theme of indigenous stewardship, highlighting the deep connections between traditional knowledge, ecological restoration, and contemporary sustainability efforts.

This area of campus is also a spot of student activity, with numerous projects focused on ecological restoration. It was inspiring to see how students are actively contributing to sustainability efforts, working on projects that honor both the past and the future. One particularly charming detail was learning that herons nest in this area, fishing in nearby waters and adding to the sense of a campus that truly lives in harmony with its natural surroundings.

Reflections and Looking Forward

As I drove back to Olympia, I couldn’t help but feel invigorated by the day’s events. Summer can be a quiet and sometimes isolating time at Evergreen, but this meetup was a reminder of the vibrant, supportive larger community in higher education we’re part of. It was also a powerful affirmation that no one institution has all the answers when it comes to sustainability—we’re all learning and growing together, finding new ways to integrate nature, technology, and human ingenuity in our efforts to build a better future.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue working on the online tools library and exploring new student engagement strategies inspired by our WAHESC peers. This meetup has renewed my commitment to sustainability and reminded me of the incredible potential that exists when we come together, share ideas, and support one another in our collective journey toward a more sustainable world.

Call to Action

I encourage everyone reading this to get involved in sustainability efforts at your own institutions or in your communities. Whether it’s through small everyday actions or larger initiatives, each contribution helps build a better future for all. Follow along with our work at the Climate Center, and consider joining us this upcoming WOHESC conference March 5-7th—you never know what inspiration you might find!

🌿🍃 Green Drinks Olympia Community Update 🍃🌿

Hey Olympia friends! Last week’s Green Drinks meetup was a blast, full of engaging discussions and inspiring initiatives. Here’s a quick recap of what students and the community learned and some upcoming opportunities:

The main feature of the night was a presentation from DERT by our very own Evergreen MES Grad student Casey Allen and Caroline Slagle. Who did a fantastic job outlining the ongoing success of restoring the Deschutes Estuary from capitol lake, and engaging the group while taking in community input!

1. 🌊 Restoring the Deschutes Estuary: Big shoutout again to DERT for their insightful presentation. If you want to learn about the upcoming community design charrettes and voicing visions for Heritage Park and the Estuary, join their cause and stay updated with their monthly newsletter. Dive in at Deschutes Estuary Restoration Team. 
2. 📚 Discover Olympia’s Hidden Histories: Explore the untold stories of our city with the Evergreen project. A must-see for history buffs! Check it out here.
3. 🏗️ Shape Your City: The City of Olympia is looking for voices on their Design Review Board. Apply by Dec 15th at Port Olympia.
4. 🌱 Eco-Friendly Real Estate Class: Interested in sustainable real estate? Keep an eye out for Brian’s upcoming class!
5. 🐻 Speak Up for Grizzlies: Your voice matters in the grizzly bear restoration project. Share your thoughts here.
6. ✍️ Your Voice in Thurston County: Engage in public comment periods and help shape our community’s future. Learn more at Public Participation.
7. 🌲 Forest Carbon Storage Discussion: Curious about carbon storage under our national forests? NPR has the scoop. Read more here.
8. 🌊 Turn of the Tides Event: Puget Sound Estuarium shared the Dec 9th info for a day of eco-centered fun! Details at Yelm Community.
9. 🛍️ Local Business Updates: Exciting times for Blue Heron Bakery and King Solomon’s Reef. Stay tuned for their new ventures!
10. 💧 Join Puget Sound Keepers in Lobbying: Get involved in environmental advocacy with Puget Sound Keepers. Check out upcoming events to engage here.
11. 🌺 Gardening Workshop: Enhance your green thumb with our community member’s workshop, starting in February. To learn more explore fertileground.org.

We’ll see y’all again in the New Year! 💚 #GreenDrinksOlympia #CommunityEngagement #EcoOlympia

Introduction: In the heart of Tacoma, Washington, The Evergreen State College is embarking on an innovative project to revolutionize sustainable agriculture and education. The Hydroponics Lab, a brainchild of collaboration between The Tacoma Evergreen State College, and Garden of Eden LLC, aims to introduce a cutting-edge approach to urban farming, providing students with hands-on experiences in sustainable practices.

CCAS Student-Staff Intern Vanessa Doveno (Class of ’24) in Fall Quarter took an individual learning contract to examine community engagement and aspects of sustainable design with a focus on urban agriculture and redeveloping the beloved Tacoma Outdoor Community Garden with grant funding. In Winter Quarter, she stepped into the additional role of project manager and student-lead for the Hydroponics, and expanded recruitment for the garden. Keep an eye out for future updates from her work!

Sowing the Seeds of Change: The project’s roots delve deep into a 4 year dream. Spearheaded by Michael Twiggs, CEO of Garden of Eden LLC, the initiative proposes the development of an indoor hydroponics lab at the Tacoma campus. This garden serves a dual purpose: producing fresh, locally grown food and serving as a laboratory for students to explore the intricacies of urban farming. The community garden also hopes to be a space in which  community members of all ages can  be involved in in educational programs.

Phase 1: Indoor Gardening: The inaugural phase focuses on the establishment of an indoor hydroponic garden, utilizing advanced techniques for cultivating leafy green vegetables and microgreens. Students will actively engage in learning about indoor growing techniques, experimenting with alternative crops, and understanding the dynamics of a sustainable urban indoor gardening business. The curriculum spans science, technology, engineering, math, and agriculture, embodying a comprehensive “STEAM” approach.

Phase 2: Teacher Training: As the project takes root, future phases envision training leads in hydroponic gardening programs at elementary and secondary levels. This not only expands the project’s impact but also aligns with the broader mission of fostering education and community engagement.

Phase 3: Sustainable Living Institute: Looking ahead, the project aspires to evolve into a Sustainable Living Institute, fostering research, innovation, and community development through sustainable practices. This visionary step aligns with a commitment to addressing broader environmental and societal challenges.

Funding the Future: To realize these aspirations, the project sought support from the Clean Energy Committee. A proposal was submitted Dec. 4th 2023, outlining the funding required for the Hydroponics Lab’s Phase 2 implementation, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, educational enrichment, and community engagement.

Community Involvement and Training: The engagement of students, faculty, and the wider community is integral to the project. Student workers will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of the lab, gaining valuable experience and contributing to the its success. Regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars aim to spread awareness and knowledge about hydroponics, promoting a culture of sustainable practices.

Cultivating Success: With a meticulous timeline in place, including deep cleaning, orientation, and safety training, the project is set to take off at the beginning of the Winter quarter. As the hydroponic garden begins to flourish, it symbolizes not just the growth of plants but also the cultivation of sustainability, knowledge, and community at Tacoma campus.

Conclusion: While still in the development and “growing” phase, the Hydroponics Lab can be a beacon of sustainable innovation, education, and community engagement. As the project unfolds, it promises to cultivate not only fresh produce but also a future generation passionate about sustainable living and environmental stewardship. This initiative embodies the college’s commitment to holistic education and its role as a catalyst for positive change in the community and beyond.

To follow more on either the hydroponics lab development, or the community garden you can follow these links below:

• Interested in the Community Garden?: https://forms.office.com/r/Sd8g3ktwLg 
• Interested in the Hydroponics Lab?: https://forms.office.com/r/Y1eLnNFtt9

On August 22nd, 2023, a community of CCAS interns, Evergreen Staff, and 3rd Party Contractors/Consultants performed a site assignment for the upcoming potential solar installation of the Covered Rec Pavillion.

By: Keira Jensen, MES Grad student, CCAS Extern

It was a quiet day, with full clouds just starting to rain. Mason, the president of Olympia Community Solar (OCS), had gotten there early to get baseline drone footage of the rooftop. He and Evergreen’s manager for this project were both standing in the damp field facing towards the empty roof. As the drone was looping down through its last flight, the solar installers trickled in. Some started chatting with colleagues from other companies, others were already clearly taking mental notes on the state of the building. A clipboard was passed around to confirm attendance and collect contact information, once that was done the site assessment officially began. 

The project manager gave a brief background of the project, overviewed the timeline, and went over the requirements for safety and technical specifics. The installers started asking questions, some were answered in the moment, and some would have to wait until the information could be dug up. All questions were recorded by the Evergreen staff, so that official answers could be shared out with everyone later. 

The air felt alive with potential. You see the place as it is, but also more and more start to see it as it could be. The trucks that will move in, where equipment will be stored, the steps needed to avoid damaging the grass, or at least repairing in after. The quiet day-to-day of the field disrupted, as workers move about their business, applying their craft as they set up rigging and frames and solar panels. 

Each vision is a bit different, changing based on replies to questions on the quality of the roof, access to storage areas for equipment, and what exactly the electrical setup and metering systems look like. The process is professional, but exciting in a way that makes it easy to envision just what a solar installation here will look like. The different movement and loading plans, the shifting visions of how to best lay out the panels. The idea of putting them in the shape of a geoduck gets a laugh from the crowd. 

There are no firm segments to the process. Questions get asked throughout, and at some point, people want to take a look at the electrical wiring and meter. The first room to look at is a discreet block of concrete within the main building, with a dim light and only enough space for a few installers to shuffle in at a time. They look at the wiring setup, take notes, snap pictures, then mill and chat outside. 

The same thing happens again, this time in a back room in a small building full of washers and dryers. This is where the building’s electrical system meets up with the rest of the campus’s grid. More talking, more pictures. This room is even smaller, so the process takes longer leaving more time to mingle. People make new connections, and follow-up on shared projects and plans. As the rain gets heavier questions start to fade out, last comments are made on timelines and submission dates, and everyone starts to disperse. And the site assessment is done. Nothing physically has changed – but the feeling of potential still lingers. I’m excited to see what comes of it. 

On Wednesday, August 23, CCAS hosted the “Summer SustainabiliTEA Community Hangout” in the Social Justice Center of Evans Hall.

This event provided an opportunity for students, staff, and community members to come together and celebrate the wrap-up of summer and sustainability.

A standout feature was the later half of the event’s workshop led by undergraduate student Lana Rae Jarvis, currently interning with the City of Olympia through the CCAS.

Walking the mix of students, staff, and faculty, Lana highlighted the work the city has been doing around climate impact awareness.

The Climate Conditions report was shared in powerpoint form, with moments for the audience to engage in introspective thought and aloud reflection/sharing of personal experiences.

After the interactive presentation, the room broke out into two groups to brainstorm the direct and indirect consequences of climate change (everything from increased heat, and thus heatstroke, wildfires, and smoke affecting the quality of air. To raised sea levels and decreased housing areas downtown, thus increasing scarcity and costs of other housing). 

Finally Lana brought up an upcoming joint project for community mural by a local artist. The city of olympia commissioned a mural that has been sliced into tiles that for the last few months Olympians have been adding their thoughts, quotes, and sketches from all ages and groups. Which will get re-assembled into the final mobile mural, to be hung in city hall for a time before finding its home!