UNM launches student sustainability corps

The University of New Mexico's Office of Sustainability has launched the inaugural UNM Sustainability Corps - a new student employment program that connects students with hands-on sustainability work while building partnerships across campus.

The academic-year program engages ten undergraduate students who dedicate ~10 hours each week to applied sustainability projects and campus engagement activities that are aligned with implementation of the 2025 UNM Sustainability Strategic Plan.

The Corps began its work during residence hall move-in, partnering with UNM Residence Life & Student Housing and UNM Facility Services-Recycling to help students and families navigate move-in while promoting recycling and waste diversion.

That partnership delivered immediate results: Sustainability Corps members helped divert a record amount of cardboard from the landfill during move-in.

"Having the Sustainability Corps at Move In was a game changer," said John "Ski" Shaski, resource conservation manager for facility services. "Our newest Lobos are learning good recycling habits the moment they step on campus - that's how you set a culture of sustainability from day one."

The move-in collaboration is the first of many opportunities for the Sustainability Corps to work with departments, student groups, and campus partners to make sustainability more visible, practical, and engaging in everyday life at UNM.

This fall, the Corps will also spearhead Greening Game Day, a partnership with UNM Facility Services-Recycling and Athletics and collect recyclable materials during home football games. The Corps is also recruiting volunteers to join the Recycle Cart at four tailgate events this fall: Sept. 12, Oct. 3, Oct. 24, and Nov. 14.

"We're here to help show campus how cool sustainability is," said Shaylene Sanchez, Sustainability Corps member and student representative on the UNM Sustainability Council. "Move-in and Game Day are just the beginning - we want to partner with departments, student organizations, and campus events across UNM."

Campus departments and student organizations are encouraged to connect with the Corps and invite them to participate in events and initiatives throughout the year.

For more information about the UNM Sustainability Corps, visit the UNM Office of Sustainabilitysite.