St. Louis University plans sustainability center

The philanthropic arm of the Alberici Corp. has pledged $5 million to establish a Center for Sustainability at Saint Louis University — a first for the nation’s 28 Jesuit colleges.

The center, to be located in midtown St. Louis, will be guided by an overarching mission to develop creative, collaborative solutions to pressing environmental challenges facing society today with a special focus on sustainability issues in urban areas, SLU said.

Starting in fall 2010, the center will offer a master’s degree in sustainability, the first of its kind in the Midwest. Students in the interdisciplinary two-year program will explore advanced green practices in business, engineering and urban planning, preparing them for one of the fastest growing industries in the United States.

SLU said it would conduct a national search for a recognized expert in the field of sustainability to direct the new center. An advisory board of sustainability leaders from academia, business and the community also will be formed to offer insight and expertise.

Read the full story in the St. Louis Business Journal.