Hanley Sustainability Institute
UD named a Bicycle Friendly University
By Mark Gokavi
The University of Dayton was honored as a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. The award is in recognition of promoting and enabling safe, accessible bicycling on campus. UD is one of just seven Ohio campuses and 208 colleges and universities nationally to earn the Bicycle Friendly University distinction.
"By meeting one of the four award levels, universities and colleges demonstrate a commitment to not only fostering academic achievements, but also to developing model environments where people can safely bike and contribute to healthier, more sustainable outcomes," said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League.
The honor was the result of a collaboration among campus entities. The application was completed by Hanley Sustainability Institute graduate assistant Jen Lumpkin with support from the campus Bike Committee and Campus Rec. The application was submitted by Facilities Management.
Bicycling initiatives on campus are often led by a group including: Michelle Tedford, the editor of the University of Dayton Magazine; Amber Dierking, assistant director of outdoor recreation; Mary Buchwalder, M.D., director of Gosiger Health Center; and Eileen Maloney, administrative support staff.
Each May, the University celebrates Bike Month with organized bike rides for faculty, staff and students, including the annual Bike to Work Day; and information sessions on how cycling contributes to a more sustainable world.
The University also has a bike rental program operated by campus recreation to encourage students to discover Dayton and its bikeways while exercising and enjoying time with friends. The University partners with Link, Dayton's bike share program, which has six bike sharing stations on or near campus. For more information, visit www.bikeleague.org/