Planet Blue Ambassadors
About the program
The Planet Blue Ambassador (PBA) program is the entry point to sustainability at UM-Dearborn. We're here to empower you with the information and resources you need to live, work, learn, and play sustainably on- and off- campus.
One of the main components of the PBA program is a training that aims to inspire participants to take action. Here’s a preview of what you can expect to learn by completing the training:
- Sustainability – what does it mean?
- All about UM’s Carbon Neutrality Commitments.
- Unique tips and skills to contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
- How UM-Dearborn is making progress toward a more sustainable campus.
- Pathways to get involved with Sustainability at UM-Dearborn and take action.
Ready to become a certified Planet Blue Ambassador? Complete the free Online Canvas training or schedule a Group training.
Mission
Our mission is to inspire and empower all U-M students, staff, & faculty to engage in sustainability and climate action by serving as a resource navigator and creating diverse sustainability learning experiences.
Vision
We envision a tri-campus community of climate literate changemakers embedded throughout U-M and beyond, who share a culture of responsibility to care for people and the planet.
Values
- Action-Oriented: We help students, staff, and faculty build sustainable skillsets and make decisions that support justice for people and the planet.
- Research-Informed & Dynamic: We integrate the latest research to foster a climate-literate community, continually refining and evolving our programs.
- Accessible & Inclusive: We consider the place and identity of all our ambassadors by providing accessible pathways to practice sustainability within their own communities.
- Care-Focused: We center empathy and respect while meeting people where they are on their sustainability journey.
Sustainability Graduation Cords
This initiative honors students who go above and beyond to support sustainability efforts both on- and off-campus while studying at UM-Dearborn. The cords are handmade by students for students, crafted from upcycled t-shirts donated by the Office of Student Life. To receive this one-of-a-kind cord, you must fulfill the requirements listed below:
Requirements
- Must be a certified Planet Blue Ambassador
- To become certified you must complete our online Canvas course or attend a live group course.
- Must participate in at least four sustainability events or activities
- Two of these must be on-campus campus events.
- You must be able to describe how your participation supported the environment and humanity.
- Notes: We encourage you to attend events in your local community, but this is not a requirement. An internship in environmental sustainability can count as two events.
Sponsors
This initiative is sponsored by the Planet Blue Ambassador program, Student Sustainability Coalition, Environmental Science Student Association, Office of Student Life, and Environmental Interpretive Center.
How to apply
It's simple - apply using the form linked below! We encourage you to review the application questions ahead of time to better prepare yourself come application time. Those who plan to walk during the December 2026 Commencement must apply between September 1 and December 11, 2026.
