Staff Profile: Lorena Prosco, Executive Director of Housing Services and Student Center Operations

We asked Lorena some questions about how her work incorporates sustainability and contributes to Columbia’s net zero goal.

September 11, 2024

Lorena Prosco is the Executive Director of Housing Services and Student Center Operations at Columbia University. Since joining Columbia in 2012 as part of the Lerner Operations Team, she has been dedicated to enhancing both student and visitor experiences. In her current role, Lorena oversees the Welcome Desk staff, coordinates with Facilities, Event Management, and various tenants of Lerner Hall to ensure top-notch service. She also manages housing assignments for around 6,000 undergraduate students during the academic year and oversees the Conference Housing operations in the summer, which accommodates approximately 5,000 participants. 

Lorena holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Connecticut and a Master’s Degree in Sustainability Management from Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies. Her dual experience as a university officer and an alumna drives her commitment to fostering positive change within the campus community. 

We asked Lorena some questions about how her work incorporates sustainability and contributes to Columbia’s net zero goal. 

Students and staff at an information table during Housing Check-In

Q: What does sustainability mean to you in relation to your work at Columbia? 

A: Sustainability, to me, is about being mindful and intentional in our daily operations, ensuring that we reduce waste and increase efficiency wherever possible. At Lerner Hall, we’ve centralized trash and recycling collection areas, which significantly cut down on the number of individual trash cans in the building and, consequently, the amount of trash bags used daily. In Housing Services, we take care in selecting materials for building renovations—choosing sustainable options for carpets, paints, light fixtures, and faucets. Additionally, we donate dorm furniture when updating buildings and have a robust recycling program for clothing students no longer need. 

Q: What is one sustainable practice or achievement in your department that you are proud of? 

A: I’m particularly proud of the sustainable waste management model we implemented in Lerner Hall as part of Columbia’s commitment to sustainability and our participation in the Sustainable Leaders Network. In 2018, we transitioned to a centralized trash model, eliminating individual trash cans in offices. This shift has had several benefits, including increased recycling rates as individuals are more deliberate about sorting their waste. It has also reduced the use of plastic liners, minimized waste production, and enhanced the overall office environment by reducing pests and managing odors. Moreover, this model encourages staff to take short breaks, which has positive effects on productivity and health.

Campus Services leaders pose for a photo with their Sustainable Leaders Network certificates

Q: What is something you would like to implement in the future, or are in the process of implementing in regards to sustainability? 

A: Looking ahead, I would like to develop initiatives that encourage students to bring a more reasonable amount of belongings to campus. By exploring what services we can provide centrally—such as shared items or rental options—we can reduce the need for each student to bring everything individually. This approach would help ensure that students either take their items back home, properly dispose of them, or recycle them before moving out. Implementing this could significantly reduce the amount of waste left behind after students move out of the residence halls.