IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2007
CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine:
724-738-4854
gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

Macoskey Center turbine generates national publicity for University

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – The wind turbine, recently installed at the Robert A. Macoskey Center for Sustainable Systems Education and Research, is generating more than emission-free electricity these days. It’s also generating interest in Slippery Rock University and a nod in one national publication.

      SRU earned a citation in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education Digest 2006, an annual review of campus sustainability efforts. The Lexington, Ky.-based nonprofit organization included only those institutions that took significant measures to improve their sustainability performance, according to Julian Dautremont-Smith, associate director. 

        “Slippery Rock is one of the institutions leading the way to a sustainable future,” he said. The association is a membership-based association of colleges and universities working to advance sustainability in higher education in the U.S. and Canada. It partners with businesses, non-profit organization and government agencies.

        The 2006 report includes news stories republished in the association’s weekly newsletter. SRU’s plans for a wind turbine were featured in the association’s August bulletin.

        The wind turbine was erected 100 yards south of the Macoskey Center's Harmony House in January. Solar panels closer were activated at that time as well. The overall system rating is 4.9 kilowatts at peak power according to Macoskey Center officials.

        SRU launched a master’s degree program in sustainable systems in 1990. Students in the program study and practice sustainability in agriculture, design and waste management.

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.