September Co-Lab
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The Appalachian Sustainable Finance Hub is hosting a virtual “Co-Lab” convening with a special emphasis on colleges and universities. This event will explore the unique role that higher education institutions play in regional development and sustainability initiatives.
This meeting took place via Zoom,
September 26th, 1pm-3pm EST
Meeting Recap
Download PDF
What to expect:
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Introduction to the Hub: Learn about the Appalachian Sustainable Finance Hub’s objectives, the resources we are developing, and how your institution can get engaged.
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Discussion on Needs and Opportunities:
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Projects: What types of sustainable projects are you looking to implement in building infrastructure or through investment strategies?
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Operations: What operational challenges do you face in executing sustainable practices on campus?
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Research: How do you foster research initiatives around sustainable development?
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Community Partnerships: What strategies are effective in partnering with local communities to build and sustain these projects?
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Networking and Collaboration: Connect with other higher education and community leaders and explore potential collaborations that could amplify your impact and align with regional sustainability goals.
Speakers
Hear from leaders in the field about how colleges and universities can
impact sustainable infrastructure development.
Aurora Sharrard
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Sustainability
University of Pittsburgh
Lara Fowler
Chief Sustainability Officer
Penn State University
Erienne Olesh
Executive Director for Innovation and Commercialization
West Virginia University
Brandi Robinson
Assoc. Teaching Professor for Energy and Sustainability Policy
Penn State University
Why Join?
Co-Lab sessions are focused on:
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Identifying Project Types of Interest: Explore projects that resonate with the unique needs and capabilities of each region (PA, OH, MD, WV, KY) and various stakeholder groups (municipalities, investors, labor organizations, etc.).
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Understanding Challenges: Delve into the real-world obstacles that stakeholders face in advancing sustainability projects, tailored by region and stakeholder type.
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Facilitating Collaboration: Create opportunities for joint procurement and collaborative projects by connecting participants with complementary interests and resources.
Who should attend?​
Co-Labs are designed for a broad array of participants who are key to driving sustainable change, including:
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Leadership, staff and faculty working on sustainability in college/university facilities
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College/university leadership, staff and faculty engaged in sustainable community and economic development projects
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Staff of sustainability focused offices and research centers
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Community leaders in interested in strengthening partnerships with institutions of higher education in their communities.