In an exciting development for the academic year, two new living-learning communities (LLCs) are set to debut this fall at the Mount Vernon Campus. These communities, Sustainability and Harvest House, aim to unite students sharing common interests in sustainability and food studies respectively. Designed as year-long residential experiences, these LLCs will provide unique opportunities for intellectual growth beyond the classroom. The Sustainability LLC, supported by GW’s Alliance for a Sustainable Future and the Office of Sustainability, focuses on planetary concerns, while the Harvest House LLC, initiated by GW’s Global Food Institute, uses food as a central theme for learning. Students participating in these programs will reside in designated halls and take specialized courses aligned with their LLC themes.

Details on the Upcoming Living-Learning Communities

In the vibrant atmosphere of the Mount Vernon Campus, two innovative LLCs are preparing to welcome their first cohorts. Assistant Dean Betsy Shimberg announced that the Sustainability LLC and the Harvest House LLC will offer distinctive educational experiences beginning this academic year. The Sustainability LLC, guided by GW's commitment to environmental stewardship, will bring together students passionate about the planet through a structured curriculum including a University writing course focused on sustainability in the fall and Introduction to Sustainability in the spring. Participants will reside in Merriweather Hall.

Concurrently, the Harvest House LLC, inspired by the Global Food Institute founded by renowned chef José Andrés, will immerse students in food-related studies. This LLC offers courses such as a University writing course or a first-year research seminar related to food during the fall semester, followed by Introduction to Food Studies in the spring. Students will live in Somers Hall, fostering a close-knit community tied to the food leadership minor.

Both LLCs are open enrollment options for incoming first-year students through the housing application process, without requiring a formal application. Assistant Dean Shimberg expressed enthusiasm over the strong interest shown by prospective students and highlighted the benefits of LLC participation, which include smoother college transitions, higher engagement with campus life, and increased academic confidence.

As these new LLCs come to life, they promise to enrich the Mount Vernon Campus community by creating spaces where shared passions lead to deeper understanding and collaboration.

The introduction of these LLCs signals a significant step forward in enhancing student experiences. By integrating academic pursuits with residential living, GW fosters environments where students can thrive both personally and academically. These initiatives underscore the university's commitment to addressing global challenges like sustainability and food security, equipping students with knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields. For prospective participants, this represents not only an opportunity for academic growth but also a chance to engage actively within a supportive community dedicated to making a difference.