Memorandum of Understanding

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Memorandum of Understanding With San Diego State University

Introduction

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has an ever-increasing need for well trained, qualified professionals in environmental policy, economics, science and information technology to meet the needs of the future. At the same time, there is a shortage of minorities, particularly Hispanics, electing to pursue these career opportunities. Innovative strategies must be developed and implemented to assure an adequate supply of highly-trained and skilled personnel for the accomplishment of environmental research, policy and program development. To help meet this objective, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a separate Equipment Use Agreement is being established between the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and San Diego State University (SDSU). The purpose of this MOU and the Equipment Use Agreement will be to formalize and strengthen the ties between EPA and SDSU in order to enhance the education and training of students, and improve EPA's marketing strategy and tools used to recruit, employ and retain qualified environmental professionals.

Authority

EPA is authorized to cooperate with San Diego State University under Section 5(b) of the Environmental Education Act, Section 104 of the Clean Water Act, Section 103 of the Clean Air Act, Section 8001 of the Solid Waste Disposal Act, and Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act.

Background

SDSUp, pa Hispanic Serving Institution recognized by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanic Americans, provides high quality postsecondary education and presents programs of continuing education, public service, and cultural awareness to meet the needs of the community. SDSU offers certificate, undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts and sciences, and in professional programs designed to meet student demand and regional needs.

Goal

The goal of the MOU is to strengthen the partnership between EPA and SDSU by enhancing our outreach to students in the areas of technology, physical and biological sciences, engineering and community outreach. It is expected that SDSU's capacity to develop environmental professionals will be significantly enhanced while important contributions are made to EPA's ability to accomplish our mission and to increase the representation of Hispanics in our workforce.

Program

Recognizing the unique resources offered by SDSU and the high potential for environmental science, engineering and training programs in areas of interest to EPA, this MOU is being initiated to formalize joint program activities that will assist SDSU, through its agent Career Services, in enhancing educational capabilities, and assist EPA in achieving its mission of protecting human health and the environment. The following activities are indicative of the type contemplated through this joint program:

STUDENT INTERNSHIPS AND EMPLOYMENT

Announcements of student/summer employment opportunities will be available for viewing in Career Services. Students will be encouraged to take advantage of the many employment programs that exist at EPA, when available, that are designed for student participation and training. Current programs that allow undergraduate and graduate students to gain valuable experience and training during the academic year and/or the summer are the Student Temporary Employment Program and the Student Career Experience Program (also known as co-op).

All students will be encouraged to participate in non-paid internships to satisfy curriculum requirements and to gain valuable work experience in the environmental field. Students will be invited to participate in EPA's Shadow Program which provides students with an opportunity to experience day-to-day activities of professional staff at EPA.

Vacancy announcements for permanent positions will be available for viewing on the EPA Kiosk which advertises all Federal jobs. SDSU will make available information regarding other special employment programs, including instructions on how to apply for these programs, when they are available. These programs include but are not limited to the EPA Environmental Intern Program, Outstanding Scholar Program, Bilingual/Bicultural Hiring Program, Veterans Program, and the People with Disabilities Program.
EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES

EPA will inform SDSU of its annual plan for Earth Day activities and invite students to participate and design projects/activities for this event.
SPECIALIZED WORKSHOPS

SDSU and appropriate EPA offices will collaborate to organize workshops such as "How to Find a Job With the Federal Government" and "How to Successfully Apply for Grants and Fellowships."
MINI-COURSES/LECTURES/SEMINAR SPEAKERS

At SDSU's request, EPA will provide staff to help in conducting workshops and/or lectures in public policy, economics, environmental sciences, and other related areas consistent with the agency's expertise and the needs of the University. At EPA's request, SDSU may provide faculty as speakers or participants at EPA sponsored events
EPA PRESENCE AT SDSU CAREER FAIRS/OTHER CAMPUS EVENTS

When funds permit, EPA will participate in the SDSU's career fairs. EPA representatives will meet with school advisors, instructors and participate in student meetings to provide information concerning EPA programs and initiatives.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

EPA and SDSU will collaborate in developing Environmental Justice technical assistance, informational workshops, and meetings to increase community awareness in the area of environmental justice.
EQUIPMENT USE AGREEMENT

This agreement is outlined under separate cover entitled, Equipment Use Agree ment developed by the EPA, Office of Human Resources and Organization Services, Headquarters, Washington, D. C.

Organization Operation

The parties shall establish a joint EPA/SDSU Leadership Group to advise and make recommendations on the implementation of this MOU. This Group will assist in implementing and monitoring the conditions set forth in this document. This Group shall be augmented as required by EPA specialists and staff members and also by appropriate representatives from SDSU. The primary responsibilities of the Group include:

Preparation of a collaborative program plan and the preparation of annual program and project reports.
Submission of the program plan, including resource requirements to the EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Administration and Resources Management to support inclusion as appropriate in the annual EPA budget.
General program liaison necessary to meet mission goals and objectives.
Development and presentation of policy, objectives and projects for the approval of institutional and departmental management within EPA and SDSU.
Convening on at least a semi-annual basis, to review progress on implementation of this MOU.

Limitations

Each party will bear its own costs of carrying out this agreement. All of the activities that EPA intends to take in connection with this agreement described in this MOU are subject to the availability of funding. This agreement is not intended to transfer EPA funds to the or to acquire services from SDSU . SDSU agrees that it will not submit a claim for compensation to EPA or any other Federal agency for activities performed under this MOU. Any transactions between EPA and SDSU that involve the transfer or commitment of funds will be negotiated separately. Any specific activities undertaken by EPA under this agreement must be consistent with EPA's existing statutory authorities, regulations and Agency policy.

Non-Discrimination in Employment

The parties to this MOU agree not to discriminate against any employee, student or applicant for employment because of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, age or sexual orientation.

Amendments and Termination

The undersigned agree to the program described in this MOU. Either party may propose amendments to this agreement. In addition, either party shall retain the right to withdraw from this MOU three months following the written notification to the other member and completion of current obligations.

Signed:

Romulo L. Diaz, Jr.
Assistant Administrator
Office of Administration and Resources Management

Felicia Marcus Date
Regional Administrator, Region 9

Stephen Weber Date
President
San Diego State University

Memorandum of Understanding

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