Every year, graduate assistants working with the Institute for Research & Innovation in Sustainability (IRIS) do a campus survey on a sustainability theme.
The first survey in 2006, asked students what they knew about climate change and resulted in more environmentally friendly course kits (see YFile, April 2, 2008); the second assessed the value of urban forest on Keele campus; and the third surveyed students about their food choices and needs.
This year's survey looks at volunteerism and engagement on campus. The theme arose following an open space event held during Earth Hour 2010, where community members expressed a desire to explore campus volunteerism and engagement as a means to improve campus sustainability. IRIS researchers felt that people would engage in initiatives that they care about, and by exploring the community’s values, interests and current involvement, a better sense could be achieved on how to structure and focus University initiatives.
York students, staff, librarians and faculty will have an opportunity to voice their opinions on volunteerism and engagement via the IRIS survey. To participate, look for IRIS survey stations at the Keele and Glendon campuses, pick up the link from posters around campus, or visit the IRIS website. The survey closes Friday, Jan. 21.