Sustainability is defined as meeting humanity’s present needs while enhancing the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It is a journey as much as it is a destination. The David E. Shi Center for Sustainability at Furman University is a transdisciplinary, non-partisan institute supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation that focuses on teaching the Furman and Upstate communities about sustainability through outreach programming, curricular development, and original research. Engaging students is at the heart of the Center's mission and student involvement is a vital aspect of its operation.

We are located on the lower level of the Earle Infirmary.  In January 2009 the Shi Center will move into Furman University’s Cliffs Cottage (LEED Platinum - Registered). Center Hours are 8:30 - 5:00 M-F.

Dr. Angela Halfacre is the Director of the Center for Sustainability. Please share your questions and ideas regarding curriculum and research collaboration with Dr. Halfacre.

Sandy Bryan is the administrative coordinator for the center. Please contact Sandy (864-294-3655) to schedule appointments with Dr. Halfacre.

Brittany DeKnight is the Assistant Director of the Center for Sustainability. Please contact Brittany (864-294-3656) for ways to get engaged on campus with issues related to sustainability. Her office hours are Mondays from 2 to 5PM and Thursdays from 9AM to noon.

Dr. Frank Powell is Furman’s Environmental Liaison. Contact Dr. Powell (864-294-3418) with questions about green building, The Cliffs Cottage, and renewable energy. His office hours are 8:30 to 10AM on Mondays and Tuesdays as well as 4:30 to 6:30PM on Tuesdays.

Dr. Amélie Davis is the Associated Colleges of the South post doctoral fellow. Please contact her (864-294-3647) for research opportunities both on and off campus. Her office hours are 9AM to noon on Wednesdays and 2 to 5PM on Fridays.

The direct line to the Center for Sustainability is 864-294-3655.

Any questions can be emailed to sustainability@furman.edu

Latest News:

Furman University has been selected as a 2009 Campus Sustainability Leader by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. Furman won the award among schools with full-time enrollment of less than 5,000 students. For more information, see press releases from Furman and AASHE, as well as Furman's profile on the AASHE website.

The Center for Sustainability will now be named the David E. Shi Center for Sustainability in honor of Furman's outgoing president.