Sustainability Efforts at South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University wants to develop a sustainable environment. However, the University has, thus far, refused to make a formal commitment to sustainability. This paper examines how the ecology, communication networks, politic decisions, and issue networks of the University have influenced the University administration to have a goal towards sustainability yet refuse formal commitments to improving the sustainability of the University. Interviews with individuals intimately involved with issues of sustainability at the University are used to present a case study of events from the time sustainability became a goal of University to current. Public administration theory is used to provide a deeper understanding of the events, such as why the University does not make a formal commitment to sustainability, and draw some informed conclusions. Recommendations are provided throughout the paper in order to aid students, faculty, and the University administration in improving sustainability efforts at the University