New Orleans, La – Xavier University of Louisiana’s Office of Sustainability (XULA Green) was awarded $30,000 after competing in the first phase of the American-Made Challenge, a U.S. Department of Energy-funded program. American-Made supports diverse, passionate innovators to fast-track bold ideas and lead the nation’s clean energy revolution. XULA Green collaborated with the Alliance for Affordable Energy and Jack and Jill of America’s Hammond-Northshore chapter to develop the NOLA Clean Energy Collective, a coalition raising clean energy awareness through art. XULA Green’s clean energy efforts continue to push Xavier forward, embodying the University’s mission of contributing to a more just and humane society.

The NOLA Clean Energy Collective utilizes art to educate and equip underserved communities in the school system with tools to decrease their carbon footprint. Through the Collective’s work, students in kindergarten through grade 12 and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students learn about clean energy resources, technology, and the importance of clean energy usage. By introducing youth to clean energy concepts, the NOLA Clean Energy Collective increases clean energy knowledge and engagement. They also aim to progress the adoption of clean energy towards preventing the worst impacts of global warming and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

Built upon pillars of improving the world for all, Xavier recognizes the environmental, economic, and social benefits of resource efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency. In alignment with Xavier’s social justice values, many of the University's students are involved in efforts to reduce waste and help Xavier achieve a greener legacy.

“Our entry into the challenge developed out of our students’ desire for a truly sustainable Xavier. This is our chance to expose them to more outside of the traditional recycling initiative,” said Helena Robinson, director of sustainability and quality control at Xavier University of Louisiana. “There is a world of possibilities in sustainability, and this just might be the spark students need to take more interest in climate action.”

XULA Green’s efforts support students, faculty, and staff toward reducing the university’s carbon footprint and building a more equitable society. XULA Green develops sustainable infrastructure, cultivates environmental stewardship, and advocates for climate justice on and off campus. It has created avenues for the University to organize past and current sustainability actions and develop additional initiatives in environmental management. Recently, in recognition of these efforts, representatives from the University were invited to an exclusive forum on campus and community-scale climate solutions at the White House. Between the desire of students, faculty and staff to create a better, greener future and the work of XULA Green, Xavier University of Louisiana continues to cultivate a robust community supporting environmental initiatives and creating long-lasting, impactful change.