Green Devil Network continues to help grow culture of sustainability at ASU
Thousands of Sun Devils make up the sustainability network, which is looking to make 2018-19 their biggest year yet
Despite its short existence on campus, the Green Devil Network at Arizona State University continues to grow to new heights.
With a goal of improving and building on sustainability efforts at ASU, the Green Devils are now 100 members strong across the school's multiple campuses. Those active members currently represent more than 75 departments at the university.
“Green Devil Network members help to implement sustainability practices into the university's day-to-day operations," said Lesley Forst Michalegko, the co-chair of GDN Tempe. "Because we are such a large population, the work of the Green Devils is essential in building and maintaining this culture of sustainability. We hope to continue to expand this reach and impact by adding new members each year."
Organizers say that reach now stands at over 8,000 people, a number that figures to grow as the club does.
Katie Schumacher, GDN Tempe's other co-chair, said that the ability for its members to be involved at a high level is one of the most attractive reasons to join.
For the Green Devils, saving the environment is great — plus check out all this swag. Photo by Emmanuel Padilla and Business and Finance Support Services
"(It) provides staff members with an opportunity to advocate for sustainability in everyday workplace decisions and share sustainability tips and resources with other members," Schumacher said. "The GDN also provides its members with a space to brainstorm and share ideas about how to promote and engage other staff in university sustainability initiatives."
The Green Devils are fresh off their biggest five weeks of the year, which coincides with Earth Month throughout April. The month was filled with eco-friendly events at ASU, and the Green Devils played a big role in the Day Without Cars kickoff event on March 27.
The club, which began in 2014, now turns its focus toward the 2018-19 academic year, which is anticipated to be their biggest yet.
"It’s a fun way to get a behind-the-scenes look at sustainability," said Forst Michalegko, when asked why people should join. "You get to develop leadership skills and network with like-minded people from departments all across ASU."
Get involved: Sign up for Green Devils.
Top photo: Green Devil Network co-chairs Lesley Forst Michalegko (left) and Katie Schumacher speak at the group's year-end celebration on April 25. Photo courtesy of Emmanuel Padilla and Business and Finance Support Services
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