Suffolk Reporter

Stony Brook University is advancing its commitment to sustainability through the EcoLeader Internship Program, which has been revamped to offer undergraduate students both for-credit and paid internship opportunities. This initiative, part of the SUNY Empire Service Corps, aims to provide students with practical skills in areas such as data collection, outreach, event planning, and social media engagement.

Erin Kluge, the sustainability coordinator for Stony Brook’s West Campus, leads this effort. She explained that the program consists of three teams: a data team that calculates emissions and tracks sustainability metrics; an outreach and event planning team; and a social media team that communicates efforts to the student body. Kluge emphasized the importance of sustainability in addressing global issues affecting social well-being, economic stability, and environmental preservation.

The interns collaborate with various departments at Stony Brook University, including the energy management team. Their work involves projects on energy efficiency, potential solar panel installations, and campus-wide electrification. Tom Lanzilotta, assistant director of Energy & Sustainability at Stony Brook University said: “At Stony Brook University, sustainability isn’t just a goal — it’s a shared responsibility that requires innovation, collaboration, and student engagement.”

Kluge noted that early exposure to sustainability work can significantly impact students' perspectives. Her own experience in environmental studies led her to pursue sustainability education in higher education. She now applies her background to manage programs like the EcoLeader Internship Program and lead efforts such as completing Stony Brook’s latest STARS report.

“Our biggest challenge is reducing our carbon footprint while maintaining campus growth,” Kluge stated. She also highlighted transportation as a significant contributor to emissions and mentioned ongoing initiatives like a fleet electrification study.

Looking forward, Kluge plans to expand student involvement through educational programs and collaborative projects with faculty. She encourages students to explore how sustainability intersects with their fields of interest.

Lanzilotta added: “By equipping students with real-world skills in energy management, outreach, and data analysis, we are not only fostering environmental responsibility but also preparing the next generation of sustainability leaders.”

To further engage students in sustainability efforts, Kluge aims to increase visibility through events like EarthStock and collaborations with student organizations. For those interested in participating in these initiatives or learning more about sustainable practices on campus, resources are available on the university's website or through direct contact with Kluge.