Dear Infrastructure and Sustainability team,
I hope this letter finds you well. As the semester progresses, and I witness the campus community interact more deeply with our facilities, it serves as a subtle reminder; acting in the best interest of the university and those who use its space has always been the motivation behind I&S work. It is you who makes this possible.
The university is a leading research institution in sustainable solutions, and I want to take a moment to recognize our campus's structure to aid in climate action. With our living environment changing, there is crucial work that needs to be done to expand our existing climate-improving programs. The Campus Master Plan (CMP) and the Energy Master Plan (EMP), serve as guides for CU Boulder to achieve net zero emissions, ensuring a well-planned, sustainable and equitable future. Additionally, over the next year, we will be updating CU Boulder’s Climate Action Plan, which was first completed in 2009.
As a department, we are dedicated to making I&S a welcoming environment that purposefully practices inclusive excellence throughout all of our divisions. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are multifaceted and can vary from person to person. Thank you for the efforts of Kelsey Draper and the staff who have created the next DEI initiative called “We CU.” As we begin to roll out We CU over the next few months, the program will provide professional development, health, and wellness as well as financial wellness and literacy. There is much work to be done.
I would also like to recognize the work Brandon Boger has accomplished as assistant vice chancellor of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S). Brandon has played an instrumental role in implementing key procedural changes within EH&S, while providing support and care for students, faculty, and staff. As of Sept. 1, Brandon has stepped down from his role as assistant vice chancellor, transitioning into retirement after a 23-year tenure at the university. Thank you, Brandon. Holly Gates-Meyer is serving as the interim assistant vice chancellor of EH&S.
I&S is leading the way toward creating healthy and social environments for all communities to take advantage of on our campus. Together we are contributing to environmental stewardship and solidifying CU Boulder’s leadership in higher education. These efforts foster collaboration and a sense of well-being between departments and encourage leaders to emerge in our research, academic, and community space. I am grateful to work with you and thank you all for your devotion to the betterment of the university.
With gratitude,
Chris Ewing, interim vice chancellor for infrastructure and sustainability
