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In a remarkable showcase of commitment to combating the impacts of climate change, Riverside ¶«¾©ÈÈ College District (¶«¾©ÈÈD) and ¶«¾©ÈÈ (¶«¾©ÈÈ), emerged prominently at the hosted by the California ¶«¾©ÈÈ Colleges Board of Governors. The event, held on November 15 in Sacramento, celebrated innovative leaders and programs dedicated to advancing sustainability in line with the California ¶«¾©ÈÈ Colleges Chancellor Office .

¶«¾©ÈÈD demonstrated excellence in multiple award categories, showcasing the District's dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

Board of Governors President Amy M. Costa acknowledged the pivotal role of California's community colleges in achieving climate action benchmarks, commending the honorees for their contributions to reducing carbon emissions and setting standards in sustainability.

¶«¾©ÈÈD celebrated three distinct accolades among the seven total awardees.

1. Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Innovative Project (Large District): The Riverside ¶«¾©ÈÈ College District Sustainability and Climate Action Plan received accolades for its comprehensive sustainability approach. The plan extends beyond environmental considerations to encompass social and economic dimensions, fostering positive change for the community, the environment, and future generations.
2. Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Faculty/Student Initiatives: Dr. Tonya Huff, professor of Biology representing ¶«¾©ÈÈ, was recognized for her outstanding achievements. Dr. Huff spearheaded a food waste recycling program at the ¶«¾©ÈÈ Cafeteria, played a key role in implementing on-site solar and battery projects at District sites, and contributed to the development of associate degrees in sustainability.
3. Excellence in Energy and Sustainability – Sustainability Champion: The award in this category was presented to Hussain Agah, Associate Vice Chancellor of Facilities Planning & Development. Vice Chancellor Agah played a pivotal role in creating a districtwide , culminating in the approval of the plan by the District's governing board in June 2023. His leadership was instrumental in advancing the District's sustainability journey, including the districtwide Solar Project.

The Board of Governors Energy and Sustainability Awards, instituted in 2012, specifically honors leaders and outstanding initiatives within the California ¶«¾©ÈÈ Colleges. These accolades not only recognize ¶«¾©ÈÈD's exceptional achievements but also highlight the District's leadership in shaping a sustainable future.

¶«¾©ÈÈD Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Ph.D., expressed great pride in the District's accomplishments, stating, "These awards reflect the dedication and innovation of our Riverside ¶«¾©ÈÈ College District and ¶«¾©ÈÈ teams. As we receive this recognition, we are reminded of our responsibility to the Inland Empire community we serve. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our campuses; it resonates with the broader vision for a resilient and vibrant Inland Empire."