Governors State University is proud to announce its activities for Earth Week 2025, a dynamic celebration of environmental responsibility, community collaboration, and sustainable action. From April 21 to April 26, students, faculty, staff, and community members will come together to participate in a range of events designed to educate, inspire, and mobilize greener habits across campus and beyond.
Earth Week 2025 exemplifies GovState’s dedication to sustainability as outlined on its official Going Green page, which highlights long-term initiatives in energy conservation, native prairie restoration, recycling programs, and climate awareness. This year’s theme, “Act Local, Impact Global,” reinforces the university’s belief that grassroots efforts can spark significant global change.
Highlights from the Weeklong Lineup:
Electronics Recycling (April 21–25)
Kick off the week with a tech clean-up by recycling old electronics at the Main Entrance of campus, coordinated by Philip Orsi. This initiative helps reduce e-waste and supports safe disposal practices.
Native Prairie Plant & Pollinator Garden (Monday, April 21 | 12–3 p.m.)
Join Melissa Plakke at the F1300 patio to plant native flowers that support pollinators essential to our ecosystem. It’s hands-on sustainability at its best.
A Seat at the Table Lunch (Tuesday, April 22 | 12 p.m.)
Gather at the Running Table sculpture for an open discussion and lunch focused on environmental justice, hosted by Jeff Stevenson. This event fosters dialogue and action on shared environmental values.
Arbor Day Tree Planting (Tuesday, April 22 | Following lunch)
Celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees along the campus lakeside with Jerry Ficaro, symbolizing growth, shade, and commitment to the Earth.
Dralle Road Clean-Up (Tuesday, April 22 | 1–5 p.m.)
Led by David Jones, this service event near the Biology Field Station invites volunteers to help beautify the south end of campus. (RSVP required.)
Pharmaceutical Recycling (Wednesday, April 23 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.)
Safely dispose of unused medications in the D Atrium, an initiative organized by Donna Gill to keep our water systems clean and drug-free.
Fire, Water, and Soil (Wednesday, April 23 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.)
Hosted in the Social Justice Building, this event explores our core natural resources and how they connect to sustainability and equity.
Sound Walk (Wednesday, April 23 | 1–2 p.m.)
Take a meditative walk led by Negin Almassi starting at the Social Justice Building. Experience nature through sound and silence as a way to reconnect with the environment.
Sustainability Seminar – Ecologically Integrated, Sustainable Meso-Agriculture (Thursday, April 24 | 12–1 p.m.)
Join Professor John Yunger in Sherman Hall for a thoughtful seminar on sustainable agriculture models and how they can support a growing population without damaging the Earth.
Bird Banding (Friday, April 25 | 9 a.m.–1 p.m.)
Observe science in action at the Biology Field Station with Diane Gohde, where bird banding techniques help track and conserve native species.
Earth Day Fresh Air Walk (Saturday, April 26)
Conclude the week with a peaceful walk through The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park as part of International Sculpture Day, once again facilitated by Jeff Stevenson. Take in the fresh air and artistic beauty while reflecting on your role in environmental stewardship.
“Earth Week isn’t just about a list of events—it’s about creating a culture of sustainability that lives beyond the week itself,” said one organizer. “These programs empower every member of our community to take small steps that add up to a major impact.”
For more information on individual events or how to get involved, visit govst.edu/green or contact the event organizers listed with each activity.
Together, let’s plant roots for a healthier, greener tomorrow—starting right here at GovState.