The University of Mary Washington is known for its exceptional urban canopy and picturesque grounds as much as its commitment to sustainability and a student body that’s energized by opportunities to support and enjoy the environment. These factors, among others, earned it a spot on The Princeton Review’s 2025 Guide to Green Colleges for schools that demonstrate an earth-friendly pledge through sustainability in campus programs, policies and practices.
The educational rating organization based its Green Colleges list on surveys of administrators and students at U.S. and international schools, assessing campus sustainability practices along with students’ perspectives on “green” campus experiences.
“We are delighted to recommend UMW to students who want their ‘best-fit’ college to also be a ‘green’ one,” said Rob Franek, The Princeton Review’s editor-in-chief. “UMW, which offers excellent academics, also demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability in its campus practices and programs.”
Hardworking groundskeepers support the landscape, along with no-mow zones, pollinator gardens, and sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction, recycling, water conservation, energy efficiency and an electric vehicle charge point planned for the Alvey Parking Deck. Events that encourage engagement include the Eco-Carnival on Earth Day and the Tree Festival, welcoming clubs, departments and community members to celebrate UMW’s tree population.
UMW is also designated a Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation, which recognizes higher education institutions with a commitment to tree biodiversity, green space and student service-learning. One of only 10 Virginia schools to receive this recognition, Mary Washington dedicates significant care to conserving campus greenery, including white oak, redbud, cedar, spruce, poplar, persimmon, basswood and more.
Other ways to make an eco-commitment at the University are available through volunteer opportunities, internships, green career panels, environmental clubs and participation in the President’s Council on Sustainability. Year-round, prospective students and visitors are invited to explore the campus’s green spaces, from lush landscaping to tree-lined walkways, and see the initiatives that earned this recognition firsthand.
To schedule a campus visit, head to Visit UMW, or to learn more about sustainability efforts at UMW, visit the Sustainability at UMW webpage.
