Columbia Celebrates Crown Commuter Champions
To support the goals of Plan 2030, Columbia’s Office of Sustainability has been encouraging Columbia affiliates to think more about their commute—and even celebrate it. Even though Columbia maintains a relatively low transportation impact when it comes to commuting, the University invests significantly in helping its affiliates find sustainable, car-free travel modes via the Transportation website.
To amplify engagement and awareness, in 2019 the Office of Sustainability launched the Crown Commuter program, which celebrates affiliates who choose a sustainable commute. The program rewards affiliates through a random drawing to win Columbia Flex Dollars every two months, in exchange for placing a badge in their email signature that links to the program and valuable commute resources offered at Columbia.
Since its launch in 2019, the program has encouraged people to think about their commute and consider more sustainable and efficient travel modes. Part of Columbia’s Plan 2030, the Crown Commuter program currently boasts 2,300 participants University-wide. There have been over 100 drawing winners and over $2,000 in Flex dollars distributed since the program launched. Some participants with particularly unique commutes have even been featured on the Columbia Transportation "Wow Commute Stories" page.
Anyone using a sustainable travel mode such as public transportation (subway, bus, or ferry), carpool or vanpool, walk, bike, park and ride, work or study from home, or driving a 100% electric or plug-in hybrid electric car can enter into the bi-monthly raffle to win $20 in Columbia Flex Dollars.
Recently the program announced its latest winners, who have not only embraced but also championed the cause of sustainable commuting within the community.
Daniel Leal, an intern in the Office of Sustainability, recently interviewed some Crown Commuter winners to learn about what motivated them to join the program and how they reacted to winning the raffle.
Nicole Jefferson, HR Manager at Columbia University School of the Arts, Alexandra Novak, PhD Student in Earth and Environmental Engineering at Columbia University, and Harrison Gerson, Sustainable Development undergraduate student at Columbia College stand out as embodying the spirit of change and environmental stewardship that the program aims to inspire.
Harrison, an advocate for sustainability, expressed his joy at being one of the program’s newest winners. “My research on sustainability on campus encouraged me to join the program,” he said. Using the Lamont Shuttle for weekend commutes, Harrison appreciates how the service significantly reduces his family's carbon footprint and logistical hassle, emphasizing the convenience and environmental benefits of the program.
Alexandra’s surprise and delight at winning mirror a common sentiment among the winners. “I was very surprised and excited to have won!” she said. Her journey across New York City’s diverse neighborhoods has seen her adopting various sustainable commuting methods, from biking to walking. Alexandra values her commute time as a personal oasis of relaxation and productivity, emphasizing how sustainable commuting practices have enriched her daily life and perspective on environmental responsibility.
Nicole’s enthusiasm upon learning of her win reflects a broader excitement for the program's goals. Her commitment to sustainable commuting is twofold. She says, “It's a cheaper option commuting-wise,” and it allows her to contribute positively to the planet. Nicole’s flexibility in commuting, whether by train, walking, or biking, highlights the practicality and necessity of accessible sustainable transportation options in urban settings.