University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
12/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/16/2024 16:12
UW-Oshkosh claims second victory in higher education kit challenge
UW-Oshkosh won the Higher Education Kit Challenge sponsored by FOCUS ON ENERGY and received $5,000 for its efforts. Pictured from left are students Meredith Agnew and Veda Kistenmacher, both interns in the campus Sustainability Instite for Regional Transformations office; Bill Plamann, adviser with FOCUS ON ENERGY; Brad Spanbauer, campus sustainability director; and Andrew Leavitt, UWO chancellor.
The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh has earned its second win in the Higher Education Kit Challenge, sponsored by FOCUS ON ENERGY®, building on its first-place finish in 2022.
By rallying students and staff around energy-saving initiatives, UWO nearly tripled its participation this year, with over 660 energy efficiency kits ordered compared to 240 kits two years ago.
UWO's success stemmed from a refined outreach strategy focused on off-campus students and targeted emails. The effort included three campus-wide announcements, with the final email emphasizing the university's near-lead position just days before the October 31 deadline.
"This approach drove engagement and boosted orders significantly," said UWO's Sustainability Director Bradley Spanbauer.
Lettuce is grown hydroponically at UW-Oshkosh.
Sustainability Beyond the Challenge
The challenge aligns with UWO's ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability on campus.
A recent waste audit revealed improvements in recycling habits, demonstrating the impact of consistent messaging. Prize funds from the challenge will be used to support energy efficiency projects, such as facility upgrades designed to deliver long-term energy savings.
"We established a Focus on Energy fund in 2022 to finance projects that reduce energy consumption. This win enables us to continue driving down costs and emissions," Spanbauer explained.
Looking Ahead
With its second victory, UWO plans to further its goals by exploring renewable energy technologies and upgrading infrastructure, including its heating and chiller plant.
"Partnerships like the one with Focus on Energy are critical to achieving these goals," Spanbauer said.
To other institutions considering similar challenges, Spanbauer emphasized starting small and adapting strategies over time.
"Develop a baseline, take it step by step, and tailor efforts to busy and quieter periods on campus," he advised.
Students help with a campus cleanup at UW-Oshkosh.
Working toward a sustainable future
The success of the 2024 Higher Education Kit Challenge showcases how strategic action, and strong partnerships can drive meaningful progress.
UWO's leadership exemplifies how institutions can champion sustainability while creating lasting cultural and operational impacts.
Other Wisconsin universities that joined the challenge include:
- University of Wisconsin-River Falls
- University of Wisconsin-Stout
- University of Wisconsin-Parkside
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
For more information about UWO's initiatives, visit Sustainable UWO - Sustainability Institute. To learn more about the challenge and see final rankings, visit Higher Ed Challenge.