Transylvania University is about to go into hibernation mode for the rest of December.
Offices are closed Dec. 22-Jan. 1 to give staff a holiday break and conserve energy. These closures have paid off over the years, with utility bill reductions totaling more than $1.5 million.
“From a utility conservation perspective, our extended break has been a huge success over the past 14 years,” said Amanda Sarratore, vice president for infrastructure and CIO. “Thanks to the cooperation of the Transylvania community, the university has seen substantial savings in utilities during winter shutdowns.”
Finals wrapped up Friday for students, but offices remain open through this week. Before closing down, staff are taking measures to reduce energy consumption until January — for instance, they’ll be shutting off lights, unplugging refrigerators and dialing back thermostats to their lowest setting.
Transylvania isn’t going into complete hibernation during this time, though. Some students will remain on campus (and be able to control their thermostats). Also, the Beck Center will be open for a few games including the women’s basketball Gratz Park Private Wealth Holiday Tournament, which tips off Dec. 29 at 3 p.m. when the Pioneers face The University of Olivet.
Winter shutdown is just one of a wide range of sustainability initiatives at Transylvania.