Rep. Wild Congratulates Lehigh University for Recognition as a Postsecondary Sustainability Awardee

Today, Representative Susan Wild (PA-07) released the follow statement honoring Lehigh University for their recognition as a Postsecondary Sustainability Awardee:

"Lehigh University is consistently the gold-standard for responsible stewardship and innovative practices, so it comes as no surprise that they are being recognized for their leadership in sustainability," said Rep. Wild. "Throughout my time in Congress, I have been honored to represent Lehigh and the researchers, educators, and students who are paving the way for greener, healthier future. I commend them for their commitment to protecting our planet and finding resourceful ways to promote safety, efficiency, and health in their school community and the Lehigh Valley in general."

Across the country, 27 schools, three early learning centers, five districts, and five postsecondary institutions are being honored for their innovative efforts to reduce environmental impact and utility costs, improve health and wellness, and ensure effective sustainability education.

"The pandemic has driven home the vital importance of school buildings and grounds; health and wellness; and hands-on authentic learning," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. "I congratulate the selected schools, districts, and postsecondary institutions, which are, through their sustainability practices, offering healthy, safe, efficient school environments and protecting our planet. Not surprisingly, many of our honorees support students in underserved communities, proving once again that green schools' practices, encompassing best practices school operations, health, and environmental learning, are critical tools to advance equity."

The honorees were named from a pool of candidates nominated by 20 states. The selectees include 24 public schools – among them, five charter schools and one magnet school – as well as three nonpublic schools. Over half of the 2021 honorees are in communities where over 40 percent of the student body are eligible for free and reduced lunch.

The list of all selected schools, districts, colleges, and universities, as well as their nomination packages, can be found here. A report with highlights on the 40 honorees can be found here. More information on the federal recognition award can be found here. Resources for all schools to move toward the three Pillars can be found here.

Representative Wild is a co-chair of the Climate Change Taskforce in the New Democrats Coalition, and a member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

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