Prof named champion

Mark Stemen, a Chico State professor and guru of all things green, was recently honored for his work promoting sustainability to students, faculty, staff and the local community.

The honor of being named Sustainability Champion came last month during an annual environmental conference of the University of California, California State University and California Community College systems.

At Chico State, Stemen (pictured) teaches environmental and civic-engagement courses, advises eight student groups, and is a mentor to the university’s green dormitory, Sustainability House. In addition, he serves as the executive director of a community nonprofit organization promoting leadership around issues of sustainability.

Known as a tireless environmental advocate, Stemen was among a local contingent, Wheeled Migration, that traveled by bicycle from Chico to San Luis Obispo for the conference.