Jerry Tyrrell and Lindsey MacDonald M.S. Candidates, University of Michigan School of Natural Resources and Environment Engaging Fellow Students in the Less Glamorous Components of Campus Sustainability Work: University of Michigan Campus Farm Case Study

Some History Fall 2011 UM released Campus Sustainability Integrated Assessment UM President launches grant program Classes explore potential farm locations Group pursues funding during winter break Winter 2012 UP class designed a Farm Network SNRE Masters Project forms to improve food sustainability on campus

Problem and Solution Student groups tend to be unstable continuity over the summer and lacking leadership in transition Lots of interest, not a lot of collaboration lots of food focused student groups and initiatives already in place Started the UM Sustainable Food Program to begin solving these problems at the University of Michigan

Mission and Vision To foster collaborative leadership that empowers students to create a sustainable food system at the University of Michigan while becoming change agents for a vibrant planet

Goal Setting Developing Responsible Citizens and Leaders Strengthening Communities Growing Sustainable Food

What We Do Organizing student groups Talking to profs and staff Starting a farm and hosting workdays

Methods for Engagement Take time to teach Put the work in context Teaching creates teachers – Communicate challenges and successes Sustainability of project

Methods for Engagement Find Your Leadership Team Students who: – are already connected – Bring energy to project – Have a leadership interest

Methods for Engagement Make Students Feel Valued Identify skills Assign tasks Use “we” – Accountability to the team Follow up – Quick phone check-in Thank you – Everyone wants to be appreciated

Methods for Engagement Work with related groups Idea sharing – Newsletter with all food happenings Event opportunities Brassica: Food Cart Cultivating Community Friends of the Campus Farm Outdoor Adventures Garden Michigan Sustainable Foods Initiative Consortium on Agriculture, Food, and the Environment

Methods for Engagement Fun is valuable Organize potlucks and parties Build social connections – Off topic is ok – Meeting at coffee shops

Conclusion The movement needs students Small steps to engage are worth the time it takes Good luck

Questions