This study attempts to answer the question ‘are universities taking sustainability seriously’? Specifically, this paper examines the extent higher education institutions have institutionalized sustainability into their decision-making processes. It investigates whether universities have incorporated a comprehensive conception of sustainability into visioning, planning, operations, and administration. It also attempts to determine how educational institutions have gone about institutionalizing sustainability and glean best practices that may be applied in other institutional settings. In order to answer the above questions, I present three case studies of sustainability policies and efforts at the following Canadian universities: The University of British Columbia, The University of Calgary, and Carleton University. These case studies examine the plans, actions, and progress at each university to determine if they sufficiently address sustainability considerations. Case studies also attempt to take stock of campus sustainability efforts and highlight achievements and deficiencies. Subsequently, the experience of universities is utilized to uncover and discuss lessons for policymakers and barriers to sustainability. Finally, recommendations are made for overcoming barriers.