Chattanooga is the first community in the nation to develop a localized sustainability certificate thanks to a partnership between green|spaces, EPB and the University of Tennessee’s Center for Professional Education. The green|leader program is an eight week course that teaches professionals (and students) about the global, regional, and local environmental challenges (including the social and economic contexts) facing our communities. The course also provides communication strategies and applicable management tools to execute and measure sustainable initiatives.
“We are proud to bring the first and only localized sustainability certificate to the Chattanooga region," said Kelley Cureton, green|light program director. "At green|spaces, our goal is to instigate a change of culture around sustainability and conscious, mindful living, working and building. This professional certificate helps create a pathway for those interested in exploring environmental and social challenges wholistically, with real life tools and strategies to manage this change and inspire others.” -
green|leader was specifically designed with the Chattanooga area in mind, speaking to Chattanooga’s unique natural assets and the specific challenges our community faces in achieving environmental sustainability. The program helps enhance local leadership and expertise about how to preserve the Chattanooga area’s natural resources and scenic beauty. The program, completed through UTC’s learning management online platform, is fully accredited with participants receiving continuing education units. This certification is designed for students, working professionals, and those interested in leading the way in equitable sustainability in Southeast Tennessee.
“UTC’s Center for Professional Education is excited to partner with green|spaces and EPB to deliver this exciting leadership development program," said John Freeze of UTC. "A key component of our community engagement strategy is to explore community partnerships that leverage local expertise with university resources to support lifelong learning. This program, in particular, is exciting due to its very localized approach to exploring issues of sustainability.”
green|leader curriculum was created through funding from the Footprint Foundation. In late 2019, seven EPB professionals piloted the program.
“The green|leader program has really helped me understand global environmental issues as well as those localized to Chattanooga," said Jessica Sanders from EPB, one of the first people to complete the green|leader certificate. "It discusses the steps different people and organizations are making to inspire beneficial changes and has given me the tools to mimic some of their sustainable practices in order to better lead my co-workers by example.”
The course is now open and accepting participants through rolling admissions. The cost to participate for enrolled students is $500 and for professionals is $1,000. To be part of the first graduating class, please register and begin the course before March 1st. The first graduation ceremony will be held on May 20.
For additional information about green|leader or to enroll as a participant, visit www.greenspaceschattanooga.org/greenleader. For questions, contact Program Director Kelley Cureton at 648-0983 or kelley@greenspaceschattanooga.org.