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Home > Sustainability > About us
History
Neumann University’s commitment to care for creation is rooted in the University values of Reverence and Stewardship. This document provides a brief history of the structures and activities that have supported this commitment over the past 25 years.
Franciscan Center for Earth Education: Initiated in the 1990s by faculty in the Education and Arts and Science departments, this initiative engaged students in creating ecology labs and teaching environmental issues in local elementary schools and the Neumann University Child Development Center. Students also participated in removal of invasive species on university and convent property, researched biodiversity, and assisted with a variety of tasks at Red Hill Farm.
A collaborative workshop with the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia in 2002-2003 regarding use of existing lands, initiatives, buildings, and programs led Neumann College to identify a number of initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to integrate care for creation into every aspect of campus life; including academics, student life, and administration.
Establishment of University committees* to provide oversight and direction: In 2003, the first formal Care for Creation committee was established. Since 2003, the University has continuously supported committees that engage faculty, staff, administrators, and students in efforts to care for creation. The evolution of the various committees follows:
2003
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2004
Earth Education Committee with Sr. Betty McVeigh, Chair, reporting to President
2006
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2007
Care for Creation Committee re-structured with Elaine Grose, Chair; reporting to Director of NIFS
2015
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2016
Care of Creation Committee re-structured as sub-committee of NIFS
2016
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2017
Care of Creation activities integrated into NIFS Committee
2019
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2020
Care for Creation Advisory Council formed, reporting to VP of Finance & Administration
2020
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2020
Care for Creation Advisory Council name changed to Sustainability Council
Mission
Neumann University, as a Catholic University in the Franciscan Tradition, strives to follow in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, and to care and reverence all creation. Stewardship is one of Neumann University’s five core values (Reverence, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Stewardship). The University promotes sustainability to protect the environment and use resources ethically.
Vision
Neumann University aims at becoming a leader of sustainability in higher education. The University educates students, staff, and faculty through its curricular and co-curricular activities to cultivate knowledge and to be ethically responsible and thoughtful in actions to promote sustainability. The University works closely with the local community as well as the organizations servicing the University (e.g., Aramark, Sodexo) to understand and address the social, economic, and environmental impacts the campus community has on the Earth.
