Article by Vivian Maneval '27
The University of Maryland’s Residence Hall Association (RHA) is now a regional sustainability leader, earning the Sustainability Award for the Central Atlantic region. In November, RHA’s delegation attended the Central Atlantic Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls (CAACURH) conference, where universities convene to share updates on campus initiatives and submit competitive award bids highlighting achievements from the previous academic year. The Sustainability Award recognizes the institution whose RHA presents the most compelling and comprehensive sustainability efforts.
In December 2025, UMD took top honors with its “Crafting A Sustainable Campus” submission. The bid highlighted RHA’s year-long docket of initiatives, including annual events such as EarthFest and Maryland Beautification Day, which involve students in campus cleanups and sustainability activities. These efforts were supported by strong cross-campus partnerships with organizations including the SGA, the Arboretum, and Facilities Management, among others. Delegates from across the region praised the scale and consistency of UMD’s work, with CAACURH members being particularly enthusiastic about UMD’s proposal for a sustainable residence hall essentials website. Once launched, the Res Life-hosted platform will help students furnish their rooms more sustainably, recommending items such as reusable dishware and secondhand decor.
UMD’s efforts stand out, note RHA President Emily Shoemaker and RHA Sustainability Coordinator Claire Bushar. Many universities at CAACURH shared that they struggle to spark sustainability conversations due to limited resources, funding, or engagement. UMD’s winning proposal emphasized that every effort is student-driven: initiated and executed by the RHA Sustainability Committee, the RHA Executive Board, and residence hall council members. The recognition highlights the breadth of student-driven sustainability work across campus.
“[The award] shows students that we’re there for them,” says Shoemaker. “Keep coming to us with sustainable ideas; we’re happy to execute them.”