Developing the ONE VCU Sustainability Plan

Dear VCU and VCU Health Communities:

Sustainability improves the quality of our lives and preserves resources for the future. However, living sustainably is a complex challenge that requires bold and actionable steps. 

As a nationally prominent institution known for shaping and impacting human health, VCU plays a vital role in developing solutions to environmental challenges. To this end, we are pleased to announce the development of our first ONE VCU Sustainability Plan.

This plan will identify the path forward for VCU and VCU Health to sustainably deliver on our mission as well as support the well-being of future generations. 

The ONE VCU Sustainability Plan will develop in phases over the next 12-18 months and explore existing conditions and opportunities to improve sustainability through university and health system operations, administration, academics and research. With your input, we will develop an inspirational and achievable sustainability plan that represents VCU’s unique culture and vision. 

VCU is fortunate to have community members with a passion for meaningful, sustainable change, and we need your input to help guide this work. Engaging and interactive feedback sessions will be offered at every stage of the planning process to seek your advice on issues such as campus environmental performance, health and well-being, transportation, research and teaching, sustainability policy and more.  

This important initiative will be led by the ONE VCU Sustainability Plan Development Committee, comprised of university and health system students, faculty, staff and team members. Additionally, to support this work, VCU will partner with Integral Group, an internationally renowned consulting expert with experience in sustainability and carbon planning for organizations of VCU’s scale and distinction.

Over the years, VCU has made tremendous improvements in how we address sustainability challenges at both the university and health system, but we know we need to do more. We look forward to working together to create a sustainability plan that inspires action! 

Please visit sustainabilityplan.vcu.edu for more information and progress updates, or to share your initial thoughts or ask questions. We are grateful for your support and partnership.

Sincerely, 

Meredith Weiss, PhD
Vice President for Administration

Shirley Gibson, DNP, MSHA, RN, FACHE
Interim Vice President of Support Services and Planning, VCU Health