ALLIANCE, Ohio — The University of Mount Union’s Sustainability Management Advisory Council (SMAC) is proud to announce environmental science major Emily R. Becker ‘25, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy Dr. Kanika Bansal and Director of Digital Learning and Design Dr. Stephen Craig as its 2023 Green Raider Award recipients.

The Green Raider Awards are presented annually to a faculty member, staff member and a student who showcase a strong awareness of sustainability through their dedication to promoting the principles of social, financial and environmental responsibility both to the University and surrounding communities. 

Despite only being a sophomore, Becker has already had an impact on sustainability on campus and at the national level. Within her sorority chapter, Delta Sigma Tau, Becker is an enthusiastic advocate for reducing food waste and promoting recycling and was instrumental in planning the Hunger Banquet, which raises awareness on ecological poverty and food waste. Most recently, Becker traveled with fourteen other Mount Union faculty and students to Washington D.C. to advocate for the environment during Spring Lobby Weekend.

One nominator said of Becker, “All of these efforts she has taken to educate us and make a change only as a sophomore is impressive. I know she will continue to do great things during her time at Mount Union and afterward in her future career, so she is most certainly deserving of this award.”

The faculty and staff award-winners, Bansal and Craig, respectively, also received glowing nominations from the campus community.

“Dr. Bansal encourages all students and faculty to go green by utilizing digital materials instead of paper, advocates to reduce food waste at department events, and saves money on various research equipment by extensively bargaining with vendors to get the best price.”

“Stephen has been extremely instrumental in promoting sustainability at Mount Union through the enhancement and oversight of online education and the expansion of access, flexibility, and affordability. His work in the digital learning sphere has supported the financial viability of the institution and has been an environmentally responsible practice for growing our footprint beyond our physical campus. He educates the campus community often on online education and has been an active agent in the larger community with digital learning opportunities.”

In honor of the award recipients, Physical Plant planted a Burgundy Blush Sweetgum overlooking Riggs Plaza between Kolenbrander-Harter Information Center and Bracy Hall. This species will become a large shade-tree reaching 50-60’ tall with a canopy 30-40’ wide. It has green foliage in the spring and summer with long lasting fall color that is deep red to purple.

Learn more about sustainability at Mount Union.