How Green Campus Programs Fit In Elsewhere
- University of Vermont Eco-Rep Program: Navigate the chart at this link to see how Vermont's program fits into the university structure.
Understanding Your Organization
A common mistake is to assume too much and understand too little about how your college or university actually works. If you want to establish a green living or student internship program, first identify where in the college or university such a program would best fit and which departments are likely to be closely involved. After that, take the time to learn how these departments are structured. Get started by asking the following questions:
- What roles and responsibilities do people have in the departments?
- Does the top level manager have absolute decision-making authority, or does he or she have to gain permission from other individuals?
- Who would be the most obvious program sponsors?
- Who makes the budget allocation decisions?
- What time of the year are budgets set?
- Have they ever funded anything remotely like this before?
- What are the personalities in the department like?
- Is the department well run and stable or has it just been through a major staff cut or political upheaval?
Keep in mind that some administrators and staff members have been at the college or university for decades, which means they know a great deal about the history of the campus. Long-time employees are great assets! They know how the campus works and what has been tried in the past. If you are a student, remember that these prospective partners will probably continue working on campus after you graduate, meaning they can help ensure the long-term survival and success of the program.
Take time to meet with staff in the relevant departments—get to know them and let them get to know you. Always discuss your ideas with an open mind. Be ready to encourage new input, suggestions and concerns. Most importantly, try to arrive at a point where others trust that you understand the realities of their organizational context. If you can do this, you will be a big step closer to establishing a partnership that will benefit your new program.