Coe honored with Stormwater and Urban Watershed Partner of the Year Award
It was a windy autumn afternoon with thick grey clouds threatening rain, and by pure coincidence, Coe College was receiving the Stormwater and Urban Watershed Partner of the Year Award.
“This campus is a shining star. You should be proud of this great award. We’ve come a long way in Iowa to get communities educated and participating, and you are setting an example as local champions,” Patricia Sauer, executive director of Iowa Stormwater Education Partnership said as she placed a plaque in the hands of Professor of Chemistry Marty St. Clair.
The award was presented to Professor St. Clair, Vice President for Finance and Administration Larry Lee, Assistant Director of Physical Plant Campus Sustainability Coordinator Bill Brause and Manager of Grounds Chad Sunner for leading sustainability efforts in stormwater and water management practices on campus. Cara Matteson, stormwater coordinator for the city of Cedar Rapids, nominated Coe for the award.
“You were proactive before it was cool,” Cara said during the award presentation. “Sustainable change works when all staff are committed. It can’t be one-sided. Coe is a place where everyone has worked together to make this happen. The city appreciates the efforts you have all done. We want to see this initiative spread throughout Cedar Rapids, and you’re a great example.”
Coe’s commitment to sustainability over the last 15 years is supported by a committee of students, faculty, staff and senior administration, who seek to lower the college’s carbon footprint and increase education and awareness. Solar panels, rain gardens and a green roof are all part of environmentally friendly infrastructure initiatives at Coe. In addition to on-campus work, Coe is a member of the American College & University Presidents' Climate Commitment.