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Mt. SAC Earns Climate Justice Honor

A group of students observe as a male student applies dirt to a newly planted tree.

March 10, 2026 - 01:15 PM

Mt. San Antonio College is gaining national recognition for its leadership in climate justice, earning the 2026 Climate Luminary Honors Award in the Justice category from Second Nature. The award highlights the impact of Mt. SAC’s Sustainability Launchpad, through which students gain hands-on experience that connects classroom learning with real-world climate action.

The Sustainability Launchpad prepares students for careers in sustainability and environmental justice through internships, externships, and fellowships. Built around community partnerships, the program provides students with practical skills, professional experience, and mentorship while supporting climate solutions that prioritize equity and resilience.

Second Nature, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing climate action in higher education, presented the award this week in Chicago during its national convening of college and university leaders. The Justice category recognizes institutions that prioritize communities most affected by climate change and integrate equity, access, and student leadership into their climate initiatives.

“We are honored to accept this award on behalf of Mt. San Antonio College and our partners,” said Mt. SAC President Dr. Martha Garcia. “This recognition affirms our commitment to advancing environmental justice by empowering those most impacted by environmental challenges with education, real-world learning opportunities, and pathways to lead a just and sustainable future.”

A key component of the Sustainability Launchpad is the Environmental Fellowship program, a collaboration with the California Youth Leadership Corps, Community Learning Partnership, Strategic Energy Innovations, and the Foundation for California Community Colleges.

A female student and a male student stand in front of a large banner that lists all of the areas of sustainability Mt SAC focuses onIn 2025, over the course of nine months, students participated in an environmental career pathway program in partnership with community-based organizations and on-campus centers. Their work included advocacy, air quality monitoring, and urban gardening. Fellows also completed capstone projects focused on climate change or climate justice, which they presented during an on-campus celebration in December.

“Mt. SAC’s selection underscores the growing national recognition of community colleges as leaders in climate justice, workforce development, and equitable sustainability solutions,” said Eera Babtiwale, the College’s sustainability director.

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