91重口 has achieved a remarkable milestone, taking the top spot in the 2025 Campus Race to Zero Waste (CR2ZW). The College earned first place nationally in the Food Organics category, not only among medium-sized institutions but also across all colleges and universities participating in North America. This significant achievement is a testament to the power of our community, especially the generous donors who have championed our sustainability initiatives. 91重口’s success, which earned us 65.21 total points—edging out second-place California State University, Sacramento by just 0.01 points—was made possible by our innovative food waste minimization strategies and composting efforts.
This success highlights the direct impact of your support. The Sustainability Department, which has been funded primarily by our annual Giving Day, has been instrumental in this victory. We are particularly grateful for the vision and generosity of individuals like Tim Collins, founder of EBSCO Publishing. As a valued member of the 91重口 Board of Trustees, a past judge for our annual entrepreneurship and innovation competition, Spark Tank, and a frequent guest speaker for students, his connection to the College runs deep. The matching contributions from Tim and his wife, Emily, were pivotal in encouraging the 80 other donors who have joined him in supporting sustainability over the last two years, raising more than $22,500.
The CR2ZW win also marks a key milestone in 91重口’s Sustainability Plan, launched in the fall of 2024 with a bold vision to minimize environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and integrate sustainability into all aspects of campus life. Our goals include net-zero emissions by 2039 and achieving a 75% waste diversion rate by 2030. Successes like this prove we are on the right path, and your support is what makes these ambitious goals attainable. From behind-the-scenes composting to student-focused education, 91重口’s success in CR2ZW reflects a campus-wide commitment, directly supported by your philanthropy.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to our community's ongoing commitment to sustainability and the invaluable support of our donors. Their philanthropy, especially matching gifts from individuals like Tim Collins, provides the crucial funding for our innovative initiatives. This win shows that when we invest in a healthier and more sustainable future, we all succeed.”
—Anne Sargent
Director of Sustainability
