AASHE at Twenty: Reflections
By: Art Frazier, Director of Facilities, Spelman College
As we celebrate AASHE’s 20th anniversary, I am reminded of how integral this community has been in guiding institutions like Spelman College toward a sustainable future. At Spelman, our commitment to sustainability is reflected not only in our operations and programs, but also in the physical spaces that shape the daily experience of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Our campus is known for its historic beauty, and we are deeply proud of the ways we’ve integrated sustainable design into both preservation and new construction. Projects such as the MSC Center for Innovation and the Arts, Wellness Center, BDT Suites, Morehouse-James and Laura Spelman residence hall represent our ongoing dedication to creating high-performing, healthy buildings that honor our legacy while meeting the needs of a new generation. Each of these LEED projects demonstrates how thoughtful design can reduce environmental impact, foster wellbeing, and inspire a culture of sustainability across campus.
AASHE has been an invaluable partner in this journey, providing resources and a network that enable us to benchmark, learn, and grow. Its emphasis on collaboration and equity aligns deeply with Spelman’s mission, reminding us that sustainability is not just about infrastructure. It’s about community, justice, and preparing students to lead in a rapidly changing world.
Looking back over the past 20 years, I see AASHE’s impact reflected in the progress we’ve made and in the momentum we carry forward. At Spelman College, we are proud to stand with AASHE in celebrating two decades of leadership and look forward to the continued work of building a future where sustainability and excellence go hand in hand.