UniLaSalle, France

UniLaSalle established Uni4change - for an ecological and societal transformation

Committed for more than 30 years, UniLaSalle has formalised its Uni4change strategy for ecological and societal transformation in 2022 to structure its commitment and enable the scaling up of its actions.

Indeed, UniLaSalle's sectors and universes are decisive and determined in responding to the environmental emergency, hence a mobilization anchored around 5 priority issues that will make it possible to respond to the Sustainable Development Goals.

What the Judges Thought

Judges liked the strategic focus on a whole institution approach, with the overhaul of cursi and research vis-à-vis the SDGs – and implementation of the TASK certificate by Sulitest to demonstrate impact - being exemplary practices. There is clear senior leadership commitment and good engagement with surrounding businesses and community.

The judges considered this a strong application worthy of Highly Commended.

What it Means to Win

“It is an honour and a privilege to receive such an award. And it is also a great responsibility. We have decided to address three challenges: to educate an enlightened and active generation, to accompany society through research that is fully committed to the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and to lead our campuses as exemplary places.

We choose to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem and you have just proved that we are right to believe in this: thank you so much!”

Philippe Choquet, CEO and Valérie Leroux, Managing Director

Top 3 Learnings

1. Co-creation is a must-have to ensure appropriation of ecological and social change by staff and students. 
2. Providing evidence and taking action on a daily basis is the best way to move forward together. 
3. Changing the mindset of everyone, from governance to students, is exciting, challenging and crucial work.