This semester marks the long-awaited return of the Stockton University Sustainability Trust. After the club had laid dormant for years, a group of Sustainability majors decided it was time to revive the forgotten tradition.

The student organization, lovingly referred to by its members as ‘Sust Trust’ or ‘S.U.S.T’, is “…an organization within the Stockton Community that brings together students from all majors, cultures, and traditions to promote sustainable initiatives,” as stated in their original bylaws. “We are a channel for interdisciplinary thought between all students, faculty, and the community. Our goal is to stimulate awareness of sustainability among all people, and encourage ways to lead a sustainable life,” their OspreyHub bio further explains. 

Anthony Marino, current President of the newest iteration of the Sust Trust, has been planning the club’s reemergence on campus. “I decided to take on the role of the President for the Sustainability Trust because I have a message I want to be spread. Sustainability isn’t scary, but a surprising amount think it is, especially with recent controversies,” said the young leader. “My goal with this club is to help show people that we can be sustainable (i.e. care for the planet) without regressing as a society.” Marino also made sure to emphasize that a background in sustainability is not a prerequisite for membership; students from all majors are welcome and encouraged to join. “Sustainability is not just for NAMS oriented people. In order for sustainability to work, we need people from all walks of humanity to come out and share their voices. That is the only way real change can happen. That is the only way to the future.”

While the long-term goal of the club is to manifest Marino’s inspiring vision for the future, the Sust Trust is focusing on holding their first events in the meantime. On April 9, the ‘Sust Trust Thrift Shop’ event will be taking place in Lower D-Wing from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. Attendees will be able to sustainably shop from a wide array of second-hand items at affordable prices; including clothing, books, and various trinkets. Students wishing to support the club, promote sustainable consumption practices, and take advantage of the once-in-a-semester deals should make their way over to the Sust Trust’s inaugural event.

Students wishing to be a part of the Sust Trust should make sure to join on Ospreyhub and keep up with club updates by following @trustsustsu on instagram! Meetings occur every other Thursday at the Sustainability lab in the HSC.