Every year, SustainPSU and the Student Sustainability Advisory Council (SSAC) seek nominations for two prestigious awards: the John Roe Sustainability Impact Awards and the SSAC Tree Award.

• The John Roe Sustainability Impact Awards, named in memory of Penn State mathematics professor Dr. John Roe, are a tribute to his exceptional dedication to sustainability and the environment, which profoundly influenced his teaching and our community. These awards aim to acknowledge Penn State’s undergraduate, graduate, and professional students from all campuses who demonstrate a commitment to promoting sustainable development, fostering peace and justice, and nurturing strong partnerships on and off campus. Students will be awarded a $1,000 finical award furnished by Penn State Sustainability and the John Roe Fund for a Just and Sustainable Future.

• The SSAC Tree Award recognizes a University Park student for their overall leadership in sustainability initiatives and their significant impact on the campus community. This award has been a symbol of recognition for several years, with trees planted in honor of recipients in prominent locations such as the Palmer Museum of Art, the HUB lawn, and the Sustainability Experience Center. In addition to a tree planted in their honor, students will be awarded a $1,000 finical award furnished by Penn State Sustainability. 

If you could help spread the word or nominate a student (self-nominations are welcome), it would be fantastic so that deserving students can receive recognition, and motivate others to follow in their footsteps! For additional information and to submit a single nomination for both awards, please visit https://sustainability.psu.edu/programs/roe-awards/. The deadline for nominations is March 22, 2024.