私房俱乐部 celebrates Earth Day through student-led sustainability initiatives
As 私房俱乐部 University observes Earth Day, the campus community continues to advance its commitment to environmental stewardship through hands-on learning, student leadership, and meaningful engagement with the natural world.
From academic programs to co-curricular experiences, sustainability at 私房俱乐部 is not just a concept鈥攊t is an active, evolving effort shaped by students, faculty, and staff working together to make a tangible impact.
A key driver of that work is the 私房俱乐部 Sustainability Club, which promotes environmental awareness, ecological responsibility, and sustainable practices across campus. Under the guidance of Sustainability Coordinator Molly Tarvin and student leadership, including senior Sustainability Club President Maggie Pete, the club has expanded its reach in recent years, offering students opportunities to engage directly with sustainability efforts both on campus and in the surrounding community.
For many students, involvement begins with curiosity and quickly grows into something more impactful.
鈥淚 knew that I cared about environmental issues, but I wasn鈥檛 sure what that would look like on campus,鈥 said Allison Lemerise 鈥27. 鈥淭he Sustainability Club became a space where I could see sustainable changes in action and feel like I was contributing to something meaningful.鈥
The club emphasizes hands-on experiences that connect students to sustainability in practical and creative ways. Throughout the year, members have hosted events where participants create macram茅 plant hangers, recycled paper booklets, seed bombs, and tote bags from repurposed materials鈥攊nitiatives that spark conversations around consumption, reuse, and environmental responsibility.
Beyond campus, students have also explored the region鈥檚 natural ecosystems. A guided hike through Wintergreen Gorge, led by Director of Environmental Science and Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Christopher Dolanc, offered participants the opportunity to engage with local environmental systems firsthand.
鈥淏eing outdoors together and learning about the local ecosystem made environmental responsibility feel personal rather than abstract,鈥 Lemerise said.
One of the club鈥檚 most distinctive traditions is 鈥淒inner from the Dirt,鈥 an annual event that brings together students and faculty to celebrate sustainability through food, community, and shared purpose. Held in campus green spaces such as the vegetable garden and greenhouse, the gathering highlights locally and ethically sourced ingredients while fostering collaboration between students and faculty committed to environmental initiatives.
The event, which began as a small idea, has grown into a meaningful tradition that reflects 私房俱乐部鈥檚 broader mission.
鈥淚t鈥檚 more than a meal,鈥 Lemerise said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a celebration of the work being done and the community that makes it possible.鈥
The Sustainability Club also partners with campus greenhouse staff to offer open hours and tours, which gives students the opportunity to learn more about sustainable practices, local food systems, and conservation efforts in an accessible, hands-on environment.
As Earth Day highlights the importance of environmental action worldwide, 私房俱乐部 continues to empower students from all disciplines to take part in sustainability efforts and contribute in ways that align with their interests and passions.
Students interested in getting involved can learn more through the Sustainability Club and campus greenhouse or by following , , and on Instagram.