STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System, is the most widely recognized framework for assessing sustainability in higher education. With over 1,200 participants in 52 countries, the system evaluates institutions based on academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration, and innovation. ISU’s Silver rating reflects tangible progress in integrating sustainability into its infrastructure, policies, and campus culture.
ISU’s STARS submission was led by the Office of Sustainability, with assistant director Christine Bruckner spearheading the data collection process. The effort required collaboration across departments, including Facilities, Planning, Research, Policy Analysis, and Student Affairs.
“The scope of this report was really all-encompassing,” Bruckner explained. “While much of the data came from Facilities, we needed contributions from multiple areas to get a full picture of ISU’s sustainability progress.”
This marks ISU’s fourth participation in the STARS program, having first reported in 2012 and earning a Bronze rating in 2019. Since then, the university has expanded its sustainability initiatives, setting the stage for continued growth.
Following the 2019 STARS assessment, ISU intensified its sustainability efforts under the leadership of Elisabeth Reed, director of sustainability. A major turning point came in 2022 with the launch of the university’s first-ever Sustainability Strategic Plan, which serves as a blueprint for integrating sustainable practices across the institution.
Among ISU’s most impactful sustainability initiatives since 2019:
These initiatives reflect ISU’s holistic approach to sustainability—one that extends beyond campus operations and into education, engagement, and long-term institutional planning.
Despite its progress, ISU recognizes the need for continuous improvement. The STARS evaluation highlighted areas for further development, including:
“The process of completing the report led us to understand that certain areas need further attention,” Bruckner noted. “This self-assessment allows us to visualize where we can grow and enhance our impact.”
As higher education institutions take on a greater leadership role in addressing climate challenges, ISU’s commitment to sustainability continues to evolve.
President Aondover Tarhule emphasized the university’s long-term vision:
“The Sustainability Strategic Plan inspires and guides our entire campus as we build on our successes and work toward a more sustainable future. Together, we are making real progress that will benefit future generations.”
Reed reinforced the importance of sustaining this momentum:
“Achieving a STARS Silver rating is a proud moment, but there’s much more work ahead. Universities have a unique responsibility to lead in sustainability, and ISU is committed to advancing these efforts in meaningful ways.”
ISU’s STARS rating remains valid for three years, during which the university will continue to enhance its sustainability programs and prepare for future assessments.
