Grab a cup of coffee and join us this spring for three Sustainability Coffee Chats highlighting new campus facilities, plans, and projects shaping the University of Minnesota’s sustainable future. These informal conversations bring together campus experts, project leaders, and community members to share what’s new—and what’s next.
☕ Flipping into the Future: NEW Gymnastics Performance Facility
Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 9:30-10:30 a.m. (watch recording)
Gopher Gymnastics has a new home—and it’s built to perform. This Coffee Chat will explore the NEW Gymnastics Performance Center, highlighting how sustainability, innovation, and design came together in this state-of-the-art facility. Hear directly from members of the gymnastics team and Athletics facilities leadership about what makes this building a standout.
Speakers:
- Jeff Seifriz, Senior Associate AD, Facilities & Event Operations
- Lauren Pearl, UMN Women’s Gymnast
- Mya Hooten, UMN Women’s Gymnastics Assistant Coach
☕ NEW UMN Zero Waste Plan (in person!)
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 9:30-11:00 a.m.
(Register)
Join us for our first in-person Sustainability Coffee Chat and be among the first to learn about the University’s brand-new Zero Waste Plan. Enjoy coffee and pastries while hearing how the plan will guide waste reduction, recycling, and reuse efforts across campus. Location: RecWell Multipurpose Room 7
Speakers:
- Nick Kluge, Assistant Director, Waste Recovery Services
- Ahnika Seifert, Recycling Coordinator
☕ NEW On-Campus Solar
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 9:00-10:00 a.m. (virtual)
(Register)
Solar on campus is about to get a major boost. This Coffee Chat will spotlight 4 megawatts of new on-campus solar, tripling current solar production at the University. Join campus energy experts for a conversation about how these new arrays support climate goals and the future of clean energy at the U.
Speakers:
- Jim Kochevar, Assistant Director, Utilities Operations
- Jessica Pavelka, Project Manager, Capital Projects Management
Welcome, new and returning students! Did you know that students and faculty at the U have access to a Universal Transit Pass included with student fees, so you can explore the Twin Cities sustainably? The Coffee Passport has directions to coffee shops owned by ethnically diverse communities, less than 15 minutes away from the East Bank. Together, we can save time, money and CO2 emissions to achieve the U’s Climate Action Plan of reducing commuting emissions by 40% by 2030. Download the Coffee Passport.
Join and on July 15 from 9-10 a.m. at for the groundbreaking of the first of seven new solar installations planned for the Twin Cities campus. It's an exciting milestone as we continue expanding renewable energy and advancing our Climate Action Plan.
By Sunhari Jacob, Student Engagement Strategy Assistant
The 2026 Campus Conservation Challenge engaged more than 220 students in reducing residence hall energy use, resulting in measurable savings and increased sustainability engagement. The challenge demonstrated how collective action can create meaningful environmental impact on campus.
The University of Minnesota Twin Cities has received a STARS® Gold rating! The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System™ (STARS®) Gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) recognizes the long-term sustainability goals and performances for all higher education. Read the extended summary.
Check out an EV from HOURCAR and an electric Chevrolet Equinox from Fleet, and test ride bikes from Lime and scooters from Spin. Ice cream from the University Meat and Dairy Salesroom available while supplies last! Wed. May 27, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lilly Plaza.
Join the University of Minnesota Twin Cities for Bike to Work Day on Tuesday, May 12 from 8 to 10 a.m. and show your support for sustainable commuting! Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ride, connect with fellow bikers and get rewarded for your pedal power. Stop by these two campus locations for FREE treats, giveaways and services:
- University Bike Center at Oak Street Ramp
- Pleasant Street SE at University Avenue
Upcoming Coffee Chat: Student Project Spotlight
Monday, May 4, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Our Sustainability student staff have been busy this semester! Join us to hear everything about student sustainability work happening at the Twin Cities and University Sustainability offices.
Speakers:
- Diya Shah - Graduate Student & Data Analyst Intern, University Sustainability
- Ella Chilson - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Giselle Muñoz-Semple - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Cole Becker - Student Sustainability Assistant, University Sustainability
- Yvonne Mongare - Undergraduate Student & Climate Resilience Public Health Task Force Coordinator, Focus on Vulnerable Communities, Office of Sustainability at Twin Cities
Recording coming soon
As Northrop approaches its centennial in 2029, the University of Minnesota landmark has reached a major milestone: one of the University’s most iconic and historic buildings is now Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) v4.1 Operations + Maintenance (O+M) Gold certified.
Northrop is the first University of Minnesota facility to achieve LEED Gold under this rigorous standard for existing buildings. The certification reflects Northrop’s commitment to honor its historic legacy while building for the future, demonstrating that sustainability is not limited to new construction. Historic buildings can also evolve, improve and lead. Read more about Northrop’s LEED Gold certification and what it means
Today, on World Health Day, University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham signed the Okanagan Charter, making the University a designated Health Promoting Campus.
The signing ceremony took place during the University’s Climate Resilience Teach-In, heralding the organization’s commitment to prioritizing health and sustainability. Read more about the University's commitment to the Okanagan Charter
Explore the future of sustainable transportation at the Fleet EV Test Drive and Car Show! Stop by Maroon Lot to check out electric vehicles available through University Fleet Services, learn more about EV options for departments that purchase or rent fleet vehicles. Wednesday, April 29, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Maroon Lot, north side of Huntington Bank Stadium