Luther receives grant to aid in environmental education and sustainability

The Margaret A. Cargill Foundation has awarded a $383,612 grant to Luther College to support efforts in environmental education and sustainability on campus.

 A portion of the funding will be spent outright, and the remainder will supplement endowed funds to ensure the continuation of these programs and internships in the future.  The MAC Foundation grant is supporting sustainability internships, environmental education outreach programs, and the staff coordinator who oversees these efforts.

 To help advance the work of the new Luther Center for Sustainable Communities, the college is expanding its current internship program by creating Luther Sustainability Internships. Student interns will receive support to serve in four key program areas: community energy systems, a wellness and sustainable foods initiative, environmental education outreach, and land stewardship.  The internships will provide firsthand experience working with campus and community members to implement various sustainability initiatives. Most internships will be completed during the summer.  

The college is also launching the Luther Sustainability Grant Fund for students. The goal is to foster and promote sustainable practices by awarding small, competitive grants for the implementation of environmentally responsible, economically beneficial and socially sensible projects.  Up to $3,500 will be awarded annually for student projects.