Southwestern University President Jake B. Schrum has been named to the Steering Committee for the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment.

Nearly 700 college and university presidents have signed the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, which requires campuses to promote sustainability through teaching and action. President Schrum signed the commitment on behalf of Southwestern in 2009.

The Steering Committee is the chief governing body of the ACUPCC and is responsible for its guidance, policy and strategic direction. It is comprised of 20-30 volunteers who reflect the diversity of higher education. President Schrum will serve a two-year term that runs from July 1, 2012, to June 30, 2014.  

According to a recent report that was released in conjunction with the ACUPCC’s annual Climate Leadership Summit held at American University June 21-22, signatories have demonstrated a profound and positive impact in negating the affects of climate change and integrating sustainable practices on their campuses since the initiative’s inception in 2007. For example:

  • More than 675 signatories, representing 6 million students or 30 percent of the nation’s college and university population, have committed to the ACUPCC.
  • Collectively, the entire network has reduced gross greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent since 2007.
  • By 2022, the signatories are projected to reduce their gross emissions by over 50 percent.
  • More than 30 percent of signatories have targeted becoming climate neutral within 20 years.
  • Signatories collectively represent the third-largest purchasers of Renewable Energy Credits in the U.S. − enough green power for 130,000 American households.
  • Almost 200 signatories offer nearly 10,000 courses focused on sustainability.