Strategic collaboration on pan-University sustainability initiatives leverages the combined strengths of multiple teams at all levels. 

The Committee on Sustainability connects leaders from across the University on all matters related to the University’s commitment to sustainability and the impact on the future of the University including interrelated environmental, financial, teaching, research, and social aspects.

The Committee functions as an avenue for information-sharing and advice between and among the Office for Sustainability and the many academic and operational units represented on the Committee. The Committee helps coordination across Grounds, particularly for Grounds-engaged learning initiatives. The Committee appoints ad hoc working groups to develop pan-university strategic recommendations, as needed.

The committee is steered by the following principles:

• Promote the highest standards of sustainable practices on Grounds.
• Engage the civic and academic communities in topics associated with sustainability.
• Focus its time, talent and resources on communicating initiatives and projects that will move the University toward achieving its overall sustainability goals.
• Provide information highlighting the dissemination of sustainability knowledge through research and teaching.

Members

The Committee has three co-chairs: one appointed by the Provost, one by the EVP-COO and one by the EVP for Health Affairs. Additional members will be appointed by the co-chairs and should represent a wide cross section of schools and units across Grounds from within the Academic Division and the Medical Center. Members will serve three-year terms and be eligible for reappointment.

2023-2026 Co-Chairs

Megan Barnett, Vice Provost for Academic Initiatives
Michael Marquadt, Chief Financial Officer – UVA Medical Center
Colette Sheehy, Senior Vice President for Operations and State Government Relations

2023-2026 Members

List of Members

Governance Structure

Committee on Sustainability (CoS): CoS is an avenue for information-sharing and advice between and among the Office for Sustainability and the many academic and operational units represented on the committee. CoS helps connect and coordinate individuals across Grounds, particularly for Grounds-engaged learning initiatives. The Committee on Sustainability is advisory to the Office for Sustainability.

Office for Sustainability (OFS): OFS is responsible and accountable for making recommendations about sustainability initiatives that involve the University’s physical plant, operations, and engagement. The OFS is also responsible for reporting on progress and advising on strategies to achieve UVA’s goal of being carbon neutral by 2030 and fossil fuel free by 2050 and other Steward and Engage goals.

The Office for Sustainability coordinates, facilitates, and connects sustainability working groups on relevant topics such as Green Athletics, Green Labs, Clean Water, the Sustainability Food Collaborative and more. 

UVA President’s Executive Roundtable (PERT): At least twice per year, UVA leadership, through the convening of the President’s Executive Roundtable, will review sustainability strategic initiatives and recommendations in the Steward and Engagement areas – proposed initiatives as well as reports on progress and emerging opportunities, to ensure UVA continues to be a leader in sustainability in higher education.