From cutting campus waste to championing environmental justice, Austin Community College District (ACC) is home to sustainability leaders who are proving that bold ideas can spark real-world impact. 

Meet Ana Ramos, a Civil Engineering student set to graduate this fall, as she is helping shape a more sustainable ACC—one project at a time.  

“Once you learn about sustainability, it truly makes you see the world differently.”

A first-generation college student from Mexico, Ana first chose ACC for its affordability. What she found was a passion for leadership, equity, and environmental change.

As a Sustainability Steward in ACC’s Office of Energy & Sustainability, Ana leads initiatives that reduce waste and promote reuse across campus. She manages the Surplus Free Store, which redistributes donated office supplies to faculty and staff. 

“It’s a win-win. We keep useful items out of the landfill, save the college money, and support our community.” Her commitment to sustainability started early. “I installed a turtle sculpture made of bottle caps at my elementary school—it’s still standing today.” 

That early love for nature now fuels her belief that sustainability is about more than just the environment. “It’s a balancing act. It’s about how our actions impact both the planet and each other.”

Ana’s work reflects ACC’s broader commitment to a greener future, from its goal of zero waste by 2040 to LEED-certified buildings and electric vehicle charging stations. She’s also proud to support student access through ACC’s free Green Pass for public transit.

Beyond her sustainability work, Ana helped reinstate the AMIGOS Club and now serves as Vice President, creating a supportive space for other first-gen students to thrive.

Her advice to others: “The hardest part is just starting. Even one volunteer opportunity can spark something bigger.” As Earth Week approaches, Ana encourages students to get involved—and stay curious. “Have fun,” she says, “but commit to being a lifelong learner.”

For more information about sustainability efforts at ACC, visit austincc.edu/sustainability. 

Tags: Civil Engineering, earth week, sustainability