Texas Southern University will be part of a three-year pilot program designed to transform campus sustainability while developing the next generation of climate leaders. The program is sponsored by Southface Institute and Sustain Our Future Foundation. Starting in Spring of 2026, the Building Improvement Toolkits for Resilient HBCUs (BIT for HBCUs) initiative will provide Texas Southern University with $150,000 in implementation grants along with comprehensive technical support, workforce development programs, and access to building management technology to five HBCUs.
Clark Atlanta University, Morgan State University, Spelman College, and Xavier University of Louisiana have also been selected to participate. Through the BIT for HBCUs initiative, Sustain Our Future Foundation (SOFF) brings its commitment to resourcing community-driven climate action together with Southface’s expertise in sustainable building practices, supporting HBCUs to lead in sustainability and climate resilience.
The BIT for HBCUs initiative demonstrates how practical, cost-effective improvements can reduce energy consumption by 10%-20% without major capital investments. The resulting savings free up resources that schools can redirect toward advancing academic programs, student services, and other priority projects.
“The Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice at Texas Southern University is honored to be selected for the BIT Program,” said Dr. Denae King, Associate Director of the Bullard Center. “We remain committed to educating the next generation of climate leaders about strategies designed to mitigate climate impacts, particularly in vulnerable HBCU communities.”
As the implementation partner for BIT for HBCUs, Southface Institute brings deep expertise in turning efficiency upgrades into measurable results. Since 2014, Southface has trained more than 5,600 individuals and saved over 202 million kWh through 545 GoodUse projects -- including improvements for 23,000 affordable housing units. Typically, BIT Building projects reduce energy bills by five to 20 percent without requiring major capital investments.
Through BIT for HBCUs, Southface is extending this proven approach to campuses, helping facilities teams cut costs, reinvest savings into academic priorities, and prepare students for clean energy careers. Student fellows will gain hands-on experience alongside facilities staff and local housing providers, applying practical solutions such as optimizing HVAC schedules, reducing lighting waste, and leveraging utility incentive programs.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to work alongside students and channel their passion for doing good,” said Stephen Ward, Program Manager for BIT Building at Southface. “BIT meets campuses where they are and equips students with the tools and skills to partner with their facilities and sustainability teams, creating meaningful improvements on their campuses, in their communities, and far beyond.”
By aligning technical expertise with student training and community partnerships, Southface and Sustain Our Future Foundation are positioning HBCUs including Texas Southern University as national leaders in sustainability and resilience -- creating a model that can be replicated across institutions nationwide.
Sustain Our Future Foundation (SOFF) is a national nonprofit organization that collaborates with corporate sustainability teams to de-risk and deepen the impact of sustainable infrastructure projects by ensuring that local communities' priorities are part of the planning, siting, and development phases. SOFF's mission is to raise the standard of sustainable development to promote economic development, community partnership, local self-determination, and environmental health for all communities.
Southface Institute, founded in 1978, is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting sustainable homes, workplaces, and communities through education, research, advocacy, and technical assistance. With a vision of a healthy environment for all, Southface leverages building science expertise to empower individuals—regardless of identity or circumstances—to enhance their wellbeing, security, and resiliency while protecting the environment for future generations.
MEDIA CONTACT:
DeJonique G. Baptiste
Assistant Director of Communication, Bullard Center for Environmental & Climate Justice
Dejonique.Baptiste@tsu.edu