Last November, the Ohio University Student Senate developed initiatives for two vertical gardens. The project, which aims to enhance student engagement and sustainability at Ohio U, was awarded $5,000.
The Senate worked to create a project that met engagement and sustainability goals but was also financially viable. Former Environmental Affairs Commissioner Caden Hibbs, worked with the company Just Vertical out of Canada, an indoor hydroponic farming company, and pitched their indoor wall gardens to support Ohio U.
The indoor farm, which was more financially feasible, received extended support from Ohio U's culinary services and Cats' Cupboard. To maintain student development, the Senate partnered with Environmental and Plant Biology Professor, Dr. Kim Thompson, to develop a work-study program to keep students engaged and have an opportunity for hands-on learning experiences.
The farm was installed at The District on West Green (Boyd) and Nelson Court on South Green and has created an opportunity to improve food security, especially for international students, and promote campus sustainability. Through this partnership, Ohio U is connecting students at an upfront level to combat food insecurity on campus and raise awareness about sustainability.
Read more at The New Political