As part of our commitment to environmental stewardship, GRCC strives to integrate sustainability principles into every building and renovation project. This commitment embraces environmental, economic and social sustainability, ensuring GRCC leads by example in creating spaces that benefit people and the planet.
Sustainability Standards at GRCC
GRCC applies various sustainability certification standards in our building projects, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Green Globes, WELL Building, Zero Carbon and biophilic design strategies.
- LEED certification demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. LEED-certified buildings are designed with advanced energy management systems, water-saving features, sustainable materials, reduced carbon footprints and improved indoor air quality.
- Green Globes certification evaluates a building's environmental sustainability, health and wellness.
- WELL Building focuses on the health and well-being of those who occupy a space, promoting factors like clean air, natural lighting and access to nutritious food.
- Zero Carbon buildings achieve net-zero carbon emissions by prioritizing energy efficiency and offsetting remaining emissions through renewable energy purchases.
- Biophilic Design brings nature into building interiors, incorporating natural elements such as plants, wood, daylight and nature-inspired color palettes.
By integrating these sustainability standards, GRCC not only reduces environmental impact, but also fosters healthier environments for students, staff and faculty while lowering energy costs.
GRCC’s LEED-Certified Buildings
From 2011 to 2024, GRCC received LEED Certification for ten buildings, including both renovated structures and new builds. Here’s a closer look at some of GRCC’s most notable LEED projects:
Albert P. Smith Music Center
Originally built in 1922, the historic Albert P. Smith Music Center earned LEED Silver® Certification after a renovation that preserved its original structure while adding sustainable features. This renovation utilized regional and recycled materials and maintained the existing roofs, walls and floors.
Applied Technology Center
The Applied Technology Center expansion achieved a LEED Silver® rating, featuring enhanced energy management systems, water-saving strategies, sustainable building materials, and a green roof.
College Park Plaza
Improvements to College Park Plaza marked GRCC’s second LEED Silver® Certification. This renovation included new heating, ventilation and lighting systems, along with energy-efficient fixtures in restrooms.
Custer Alumni House
After its renovation, the historic Custer Alumni House (formerly named Lettinga House) earned LEED Certification® and also received the 2023 Outstanding Preservation Project award by the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission. Updates included new mechanical and electrical systems, window siding replacements and sustainable improvements.
GRCC Lakeshore Campus
The transformation of the former J.C. Penney Department Store into the GRCC Lakeshore Campus, a learning hub in Holland, Michigan, was awarded LEED Certification®. The renovation greatly enhanced the building’s energy performance.
Peter and Pat Cook Hall
The Peter and Pat Cook Hall renovation achieved LEED Silver® Certification. This building incorporates water-saving measures, optimized lighting and HVAC systems and the use of green power credits. Low-emitting materials were also used to improve indoor air quality.
Phyllis Fratzke Early Childhood Learning Laboratory
A new build that earned LEED Certification®, the innovative Phyllis Fratzke Early Childhood Learning Laboratory opened its doors on GRCC’s Main Campus in 2017 and was designed with children in mind.
Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall
Known as the Main Building prior to renovation, the Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall earned LEED Certification® through optimization of energy performance and enhanced building commissioning.
Steven Ender Hall
In 2022, the historic Steven Ender Hall (formerly Mabel Engle House) earned LEED Gold® certification and was recognized as the highest achieving LEED-certified project in local higher education. The renovation featured water and energy efficiencies and the use of low-emitting materials.
Stewart Edward White Hall
In 2011, the Stewart Edward White Hall was the first GRCC building to earn a LEED Silver® Certification. Renovation efforts included a 40% reduction in water use, the use of eco-friendly materials and upgrades to heating and cooling systems.
