Abstract
In this chapter, we explore why another text on sustainability in higher education is important at this time, and more specifically why the story of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) informs this discourse. FGCU’s story illustrates the challenges associated with integrating sustainability in higher education. This chapter sets the stage for the book. Subsequent chapters explicate successes in overcoming impediments to sustainability at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), document strategies that have improved both the teaching and implementation of sustainability on campus, and reflect on barriers that have remained insurmountable. At a time when the word sustainability has become overworked, we set the context for a fresh perspective by looking at the trade-offs and ongoing lessons learned at FGCU as it attempts to live its sustainability mission.
