Champlain College was awarded the 2008 Way To Go! Commuter Challege Award at a ceremony at the Burlington Boathouse on Thursday June 5. Burlington Mayor Bob Kiss was on hand as Champlain was awarded for best commuter performance in the large employer category.

Champlain College faculty, staff and students turned out in record numbers to participate in the challenge, with an honorable mention in the category going to Ben & Jerry's. Supported by the efforts of its Sustain Champlain Committee the college had more participants than any other company in Vermont.

“Encouraging alternate forms of transportation is a year-round effort at Champlain,” said David Provost, vice president for finance and administration. “We initiated our Free Ride program in 2006, offering free access to the CCTA system for all students, faculty and staff. The recognition offered through Way to Go! is a tribute to the Sustain Champlain committee’s hard work and an inspiration for more people to rethink how they get to work.”

The Sustain Champlain Committee meets regularly to explore ways that the College can improve energy efficiency and sustainability in all its operations.