By Jamal Featherstone, M.S.:
At North Carolina A&T State University (N.C. A&T), sustainability is more than a buzzword; it is woven into daily operations. As the nation’s largest historically Black college or university, N.C. A&T hosts a vibrant calendar of events, from legendary homecomings to major athletic matchups. Yet with each event comes the challenge of managing parking logistics efficiently and responsibly.
Traditionally, the university relied on printed signs and bulky A-frame holders to notify the campus community about lot closures. This process was time-consuming, labor-intensive, and generated unnecessary paper waste. Recognizing the need for change, the university’s Parking and Transportation Services team, led by Director Jeffrey Karpovich, reimagined its approach.
The result? A shift to a reusable signage system. Lightweight, durable placards now replace disposable inserts, while permanent sign structures allow for quicker deployment and collection, reducing staff workload and physical strain. Most importantly, the new system has significantly reduced paper use and operational costs, aligning parking operations with the university’s broader sustainability goals.
This innovative change demonstrates that campus sustainability is not just about large-scale projects; it is also about making smarter everyday decisions. By streamlining processes and reducing waste, N.C. A&T is making campus events greener and more efficient.
Read the full article to discover how small operational improvements can drive significant sustainability benefits, setting a model for campuses everywhere.
Jamal Featherstone, M.S., is the Director of Marketing & Communications for Campus Enterprise at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He can be reached at jcfeathe@ncat.edu.
Forum Question: How can institutions balance operational needs with environmental responsibility?