A program run by the Office of Sustainability and Office of Community Service and Civic Engagement with the goal of diverting reusable items from the waste stream.

Coordinating student move-out at the end of the academic year is a team effort. The Office of Residential Life, The Facilities and Operations Department, The Office of Community Service and Civic Engagement, The Office of Sustainability, and others come together to help move-out run smoothly. One of our goals is to reduce the amount of waste that is created during the move-in and move-out process. Ditch the Dumpster (formerly known as Dump and Run) was created to help achieve that goal. Items collected during Ditch the Dumpster are sorted and cleaned by student volunteers. Items that students may need for the school year such as mini fridges, lamps, and fans are resold at The Coop, our on-campus thrift shop. Office supplies and books are added to our on-campus office supply and book swap, open to the entire campus community.  Other items such as small kitchen appliances, linens, clothing, and non-perishable foods are donated to local organizations.

In past years, we have donated items to:

Spring 2024 Information:

Ditch the Dumpster collection will begin starting May 1st. Look out for the large green bags in common rooms and laundry rooms where you can donate any items on the list below. Click here to view collection locations.

Accepted Items:

  • Mini-fridges
  • Microwaves and other small appliances
  • Lamps
  • Fans
  • TVs
  • Clothes
  • Books
  • School Supplies
  • Non-perishable, un-opened food
  • Kitchen items such as pots and pans, dishes, silverware, etc.

Unacceptable Items:

  • Trash
  • Anything broken
  • Opened food
  • Perishable food
  • Large furniture
4,500+ lbs of clothing

In 2023, we collected and donated over 4,500 lbs of clothing and accessories to Goodwill. Even more was given to the COOP, put on the free table, or offered to our student volunteers.

330+ cubic feet of bedding and rugs

In 2023, we filled 1/3 of a 20 foot truck with bedding and rugs. This included sheets, pillow cases, comforters, throws, pillows, blankets, and towels.

478 books

In 2023, we collected 478 books and even more office supplies.

197 appliances

In 2023, we collected 197 appliances including mini fridges, microwaves, lamps, and vacuums.