Sustainability Awards
In support of UC’s strategic direction, Next Lives Here, and the goals outlined in the UC Sustainability + Climate Action Plan, the Sustainability Award program serves as a celebratory and competitive framework for recognizing UC students, staff, and faculty who are doing exemplary work in sustainability. The intention of the Sustainability Award is to encourage and incentivize the UC community to enhance our culture of sustainbility while supporting academic excellence, urban impact, and innovation.
Any member of the UC community is welcome to nominate an individual or group that they feel meets the criteria outlined in the Faculty Award, Student Award, Research Award, or Staff Award categories. Nominations are reviewed by the PACES Steering Committee, and winners are celebrated at the Sustainability Awards Ceremony during Sustainability@UC Week; each awardee receives a $250 cash prize!
Find out when 2026 nominations open via the Office of Sustainability's newsletter.
2025 Awardees
Faculty category: Victoria Carr & Bob Hyland (tie)
Staff category: Sid Thatham
Student category: Sofia Ferrigolo
Research category: Daniel Murphy
2023 Awardees
Faculty category: Braden Trauth
Staff category: Jeff Finan
Student category: Net Impact UC
Research category: Dion Dionysiou
2022 Awardees
Faculty - Andrew Bernier
Staff - Kevin Peck
Student - Mitchell Singstock
Research - Carlie Trott
2021 Awardees
Faculty - Robert Gioielli
Staff - Utilities and Technical Support
Student - Bearcats Food Recovery Network