Green or “sustainable” buildings minimize their impact on the environment through energy efficiency, using recycled or renewable building materials, and reducing the building’s impact on the surrounding land and water.
Goodpaster Hall, our new academic building which opened in January 2008, was one of two state-sponsored green building projects. It was certified to a LEED Rating of silver. The building’s waterless urinals, dual-flush toilets, and rainwater and gray-water systems will save 300,000 gallons of water per year. As much as 75% of the building’s materials are recycled.
Other green initiatives include a student-supported green energy referendum, campus composting, and a geothermal system in the new River Center paid for in part by the Student Government Association.
See the Sustainability site.
St. Mary's College of Maryland, designated the state's honors college, is an independent public institution in the liberal arts tradition. We promote scholarship and creativity by challenging our students to achieve academic excellence through classroom activities, experiential learning, and close relationships with faculty.
Mission Statement:
Founded on the site of Maryland's first capital, the College stands as a living legacy to the ideals of freedom and inclusiveness. Our beautiful residential campus on the banks of the St. Mary's River inspires our work, our play, and our commitment to the environment.
Creative and intellectual exploration,
Diversity in all its forms,
Social responsibility and civic-mindedness,
Global engagement,
Environmental stewardship,
A spirit of community revolving around our students
