If I can raise awareness on how recycling should be done, and help people learn different ways to recycle on campus, it’s a good long-term goal and helps to make operational change.
When administrators with 51łÔąĎÍř Waste Management were looking to hire a new recycling program manager, they wanted someone imaginative. That’s exactly what they found when Cameron Cruzen, ’22, walked in the door.
Initially, the computer science major was only interested in collecting recyclable items from bins across campus as a floor worker. However, during the interview process Facilities Administrator Ann Wood saw potential.
“I asked if he’d be interested in the recycling program manager position instead. Fortunately for me, he accepted the position. I really like his creative style,” Wood said.
While Cruzen hopes to pursue a career as a game developer, he also enjoys creating art. He’s thrilled to use his hidden talents in his new role to spread awareness about recycling.
His drawing skills came into play when Wood asked him to create posters to display across campus promoting BSU’s recycling practices and special events.
“I try to construct the posters in a way that is more informative than we’ve had before, to push out new programs and ultimately inform the campus,” he said.
Other than the posters, Cruzen’s main responsibilities include developing content that is then shared on BSU Waste Management social media platforms, which he also manages.
“Social media is not something I expected to be in charge of, but through this job it’s helped me develop a new skill set,” he said.
Performing the tasks may be required for his job, but for Cruzen recycling and climate change is something he’s personally invested in.
“I’ve always kept up to date on what is going on in terms of the global environment. It’s a big concern among young people, and I’m no different,” he said.
Since recycling is a way to leave a smaller carbon footprint, it’s important for people to understand the right ways to recycle and what types of recycling programs are in place at BSU, he added.
Bridgewater operates under a multi-stream system which offers separate recycling. Across campus are specifically marked containers for people to properly dispose of their waste.
BSU also offers a textile recycling program for students to discard items such as unwanted clothing, linens, shoes, and belts. This comes in particularly handy during move-out days.
The university recently received national recognition for its participation in the Campus Race to Zero Waste Program. Schools across the country tallied the number of papers, plastic, and cardboard collected from Jan. 30 through March 26.
“Campus Race to Zero Waste program is a great way for people to contribute to keeping the campus clean, and competing against other universities hopefully got people interested,” Cruzen said.
While Cruzen’s new job certainly helps to flesh out his resume, it also allows him to do his part when it comes to the environment.
“If I can raise awareness on how recycling should be done, and help people learn different ways to recycle on campus, it’s a good long-term goal and helps to make operational change,” he said.
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