About Our Annual Events
The Center for Sustainability collaborates with several campus partners to organize inclusive events that foster sustainability. These events are designed to engage the entire SCU campus community and inspire long-lasting behavioral changes.
Fall Quarter
- Bronco Surplus
September
This donation-based, pop-up shop appears at the beginning of the school year for all students to find reusable goods.
- Fall Plant Sale
October
All plant starts are grown at the Forge Garden greenhouse and are certified organic. Plant selection includes a wide variety of open-pollinated and hybrid annual vegetable seeds selected for the Santa Clara growing climate. Sign up for the Forge Garden mailing list to be notified of the next event.
- Energy Challenge
October
The annual Residence Energy Challenge encourages campus residents to examine their power usage and find ways to reduce wasted energy throughout October.
- Harvest Festival
October
Harvest Fest is an annual celebration of the autumn season with crafts, snacks, and fun activities. It is also a great way to introduce others to the Forge Garden space. Sign up for the Forge Garden mailing list to be notified of the next event.
Winter Quarter
Maker NightsFebruary
Maker Night workshops allow prospective EcoFashion Show designers to learn new techniques and get help with sketches or inspiration.
SDG Action and Awareness WeekMarch
In recognition of Sustainable Development Goals Action and Awareness Week, the Center for Sustainability hosts events to raise awareness and inspire action aligned with the 17 UN SDGs to promote improvements in wellness, peace, and prosperity for people and the planet.
- California Arbor Day Tree Planting
March - During SDG Week
SCU has been recognized as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution since 2016. As part of this recognition, we host a California Arbor Day celebration each year to educate our community about the importance of having a healthy urban forest and to appreciate all that our urban forests do for us.
- EcoFashion Show and Career Panel
March - During SDG Week
Join the Center for Sustainability, SCU•Presents, and the Career Center for SCU’s 11th annual EcoFashion Show! This event showcases designs made by SCU community members from upcycled clothing or waste materials. During the career panel portion, speakers from the sustainable fashion industry will share their insights and answer questions.
Spring Quarter
- Spring Plant Sale
April
All plant starts are grown at the Forge Garden greenhouse and are certified organic. Plant selection includes a wide variety of open-pollinated and hybrid annual vegetable seeds selected for the Santa Clara growing climate. Sign up for the Forge Garden mailing list to be notified of the next event.
- No Pollute Commute Challenge
May
Since 2015, SCU has challenged employees and students to participate in Silicon Valley's Bike To Wherever Days and to incorporate other forms of sustainable commuting into their daily routine.
- Garden Prom
May
Join your friends at the Forge Garden for a fun evening of music, dancing, and refreshments!
- Sustainability Celebration
June
This awards celebration publicly acknowledges Sustainability Champions who have been leaders and change agents in the areas of academics, operations, engagement, and innovation, and those who have embodied sustainability in their work, activities, and life throughout the year. Nominate someone (or yourself!) for a Sustainability Champion Award
- Zero Waste Move Out
June
On-campus residents place reusable donations and clothing into big containers, located in their residence hall lobbies, for Hope Services or Bronco Surplus. Residents are also encouraged to place all other items in designated areas around campus, such as e-waste, food, or carpets, to divert waste from the landfill.
Swap for GoodJune
A free pop-up thrift shop where students, staff, and faculty members can swap their used clothes for other items.
Summer
- Curriculum Development Workshops
June - July
Each summer, we offer several professional development workshops for faculty and staff from SCU and other higher education institutions to integrate sustainability into the curriculum.
