Introduction:
Nestled in the picturesque hills of northeastern Vermont, Sterling College is a small liberal arts college that prides itself on its commitment to environmental stewardship and experiential learning. Despite its small size and relatively remote location, Sterling College has a rich history and a host of interesting facts that make it a unique and fascinating institution. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the fun facts about Sterling College that you may not have known.
The first college in the United States to go carbon neutral
Sterling College has a long-standing commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, and in 2007, the college became the first in the United States to achieve carbon neutrality. This means that the college has effectively eliminated its carbon footprint by reducing energy consumption, investing in renewable energy sources, and purchasing carbon offsets to offset the remaining carbon emissions. This achievement is a testament to the college’s dedication to environmental stewardship and its willingness to take bold action to address the urgent issue of climate change.
The college’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations, as well. Sterling College is a leader in sustainable agriculture and has a working farm on campus that provides food for the college’s dining hall. The college also offers a Sustainable Food Systems program, which focuses on the intersection of sustainable agriculture, food justice, and community development.
A leader in experiential learning
Sterling College is known for its focus on experiential learning, which emphasizes hands-on, real-world experiences as a means of education. In fact, the college’s mission statement includes a commitment to “providing an education that is firmly rooted in the land, the community, and the natural world.” This approach to education is reflected in the college’s curriculum, which includes immersive field studies, internships, and apprenticeships.
One unique aspect of Sterling College’s experiential learning program is its focus on Expeditionary Studies. This program offers students the opportunity to participate in extended wilderness expeditions, such as backpacking, canoeing, and rock climbing trips. These expeditions not only provide students with valuable outdoor skills but also help them develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
A campus that runs on student power
Sterling College is a small college, with fewer than 200 students, but it is also a campus that runs on student power. The college has a unique work program that requires all students to work on campus in exchange for tuition reduction. This means that students are responsible for a variety of tasks, from cooking meals in the dining hall to maintaining the college’s working farm.
This work program not only helps students save money on tuition but also instills a sense of responsibility and ownership in the campus community. Additionally, it provides students with valuable skills and work experience that can be used after graduation.
A commitment to community
Sterling College is a tight-knit community, and the college has a strong commitment to fostering a sense of community among its students, faculty, and staff. This is reflected in the college’s campus culture, which emphasizes cooperation, mutual support, and respect for the natural world.
One way that the college fosters community is through its Community Meetings, which are held every week and provide an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to come together to discuss campus issues, share news and updates, and celebrate successes. The college also offers a variety of clubs and organizations that allow students to connect with others who share their interests and passions.
A rich history
Sterling College has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1958 as a work college for boys. The college was founded by the Sterling family, who were pioneers in the field of sustainable agriculture and environmentalism. Over the years, the college has evolved and expanded its
programs and offerings, but it has remained true to its roots as a college committed to environmental stewardship and experiential learning.
One interesting aspect of Sterling College’s history is its connection to the Civil Rights Movement. In the 1960s, the college was involved in the Freedom Schools movement, which aimed to provide education and support to African American communities in the South. Students and faculty from Sterling College traveled to Mississippi to teach at Freedom Schools and to support the struggle for civil rights.
Another notable moment in Sterling College’s history was the establishment of the Wendell Berry Farming Program in 2011. This program, which is named after the famous writer, poet, and environmental activist, is a collaboration between Sterling College and the Berry Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture and local economies. The program offers students the opportunity to study sustainable agriculture and farming practices and to engage with the local community in meaningful ways.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Sterling College is a unique and fascinating institution with a rich history and a commitment to environmental stewardship and experiential learning. From its status as the first carbon-neutral college in the United States to its focus on community and its connection to the Civil Rights Movement, Sterling College is a college that stands out for its dedication to making a positive impact on the world. If you’re interested in sustainability, experiential learning, and community, Sterling College may be the perfect place for you to pursue your education.