The commonwealth of Massachusetts has once again recognized UMass Lowell for its leadership in sustainability with a Leading by Example award.

Overseen by the Department of Energy Resources, the Leading by Example program works with state agencies and public colleges and universities to advance clean energy and sustainable practices that reduce the environmental impacts of state government operations.

Since the program began in 2007, UMass Lowell has been honored with a Leading by Example Award six times, most recently alongside five additional recipients on Dec. 9 at the Massachusetts State House.

“I’m grateful for the 2025 awardees’ work to advance projects that bring more clean energy into the state and lower demand on our electric grid,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Their efforts make Massachusetts a healthier, more affordable place to live and work.”

The Leading by Example program applauded UMass Lowell’s wide range of sustainability initiatives, which are spearheaded by the Rist Institute for Sustainability and Energy. Since 2019, the university has received $120 million in energy and sustainability-related funding; added degree programs focused on sustainability, climate change and environmental science; and established more than 140 sustainability partnerships with community and corporate organizations.

Earlier this year, the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) awarded UMass Lowell a platinum rating through its Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS), solidifying the university’s position as the highest-rated campus for sustainability in Massachusetts. UMass Lowell is one of 16 universities in the world to earn a platinum rating.

“Earning a platinum STARS rating was an important milestone for UMass Lowell, and this Leading by Example award from the commonwealth highlights how we are continuing to strengthen that work,” says Chancellor Julie Chen. “Our community’s commitment to sustainability is driving meaningful progress across campus and beyond.”

“The state’s recognition reinforces the momentum behind our sustainability and energy work,” adds Ruairi O'Mahony, associate vice chancellor for sustainability and enterprise development. “Every initiative brings us closer to a more energy-efficient campus, saves operating dollars and furthers UMass Lowell's position as a global leader in research and innovation.”

Sustainability Director Dai Kim accepted the Leading by Example award on behalf of UMass Lowell.

"It was an honor to represent UMass Lowell and the remarkable efforts our campus community has undertaken to advance climate resiliency,” he says. “Leading by Example reflects more than an award; it embodies the values and culture of UMass Lowell, where sustainability is integrated into our research, operations and everyday decisions."