This paper was a recipient of AASHE's Award for Student Research on Campus Sustainability.

Author(s): Rachelle Nicole Irby

Program Name: Master of Arts in Sociology

Institution: Humboldt State University

Discipline(s): Sociology

Admin Dept(s): Energy Management, Student Affairs , Sustainability Office , Other

Publication Date: May, 2012

Paper Type: Masters Thesis

This thesis is an evaluative case study of the Humboldt Energy Independence Fund (HEIF). I use this case study to locate the Humboldt Energy Independence Fund within a broader movement of student-funded, campus sustainability organizations, which are growing nationwide, though differing in form. Prior research on student green fees has focused primarily on the creation of green fees through student campaigns with little attention to the design and management of these programs once they go into effect. This research uses organizational change theory to evaluate the successes, tools for success and challenges of HEIF. It also provides recommendations for HEIF’s continued improvement as an organization and best practices for other campus green fees. The results indicate that a multistakeholder organization which values interdisciplinarity, student leadership, collaboration, and organizational learning is effective at reaching its goals and overcoming obstacles.

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