Coastal Carolina University has been recognized in the 2023 Sustainable Campus Index, securing a top performer position in overall excellence among master’s institutions. The index, a publication from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), recognizes top-performing sustainable colleges and universities overall and in 17 impact areas, as measured through the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS).

“We are honored to be recognized in this esteemed publication as a top performing institution,” said Darcy Coughlan, director of Sustain Coastal. “CCU’s commitment to sustainability has long been recognized in our local community, and this achievement reflects CCU’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainability within higher education.”

The University’s top performer status in the Sustainable Campus Index is a result of the institution earning a STARS Gold rating earlier this year in recognition of its sustainability achievements. The 2022 submission marked an upward achievement from previous years and highlights the institution’s overall sustainability accomplishments, leadership in providing opportunities for students to learn about sustainability in the classroom, and support for sustainability-focused research and scholarships. The STARS Gold rating also reflects the strength of the institution’s sustainability performance in the areas of programming and outreach, green building, and applied learning opportunities.

“This achievement is a result of the ongoing, collaborative efforts led by Darcy Coughlan and her team in Sustain Coastal,” said Steve Harrison, CCU’s vice president for auxiliary enterprises and chief sustainability officer. “I’d like to thank Darcy, Jeremy Monday, President Benson, and the President’s Council for Sustainability and Coastal Resilience for their unwavering commitment to sustainability on our campus.”

Meghan Fay Zahniser, AASHE’s executive director, said: “All of us at AASHE extend our warmest congratulations to Coastal Carolina University for their achievement. By fostering sustainable practices and initiatives, you set an inspiring example for your peers and future generations. Your efforts are a testament to the positive impact that institutions can make when they prioritize sustainability and take meaningful action. Keep up the outstanding work in creating a brighter, more sustainable future for all!”

CCU’s STARS report is available on the STARS website.