This research project i) assessed knowledge of the concept of sustainability, ii) identified locally relevant measures of sustainability, and iii) assessed attitudes towards sustainability efforts. The approach consisted of four phases of work that engaged UCCS community members and centered around fostering sustainability research opportunities for students across multiple departments. Students were encouraged to participate as researchers in this project through multiple mechanisms – Geography capstone course, Student Success research experience, and in collaboration with the Office of Sustainability. The latter two mechanisms for student researcher participation were designed to extend the research beyond Geography & Environmental Studies. The research addressed multiple items under the “Education & Research Actions” section in the Sustainability Strategic Plan, and had the potential to be used in the future for STARS credit. The results from this proposed project served as a locally relevant evidence- based foundation upon which future sustainability action would be based.