The UMass Auxiliary Sustainability department is in the midst of several exciting projects and continuously working to expand and improve our efforts. An important component of this work is related to our campus food systems. The Communications Intern will play a key role in storytelling, communications, and community engagement that supports sustainability initiatives in dining, including local food procurement, waste reduction, and climate-conscious dining.

The Student Auxiliary Communications Intern works closely with the UMass Auxiliary Director of Sustainability and Sustainability Manager to support the Auxiliary Sustainability Department goals and offers students an opportunity to explore the intersection of hospitality, sustainability, and strategic communications.

Weekly Structure/Monthly Structure: The Communications Intern will meet weekly with the Director of Sustainability and Sustainability Manager to discuss responsibilities and projects and monthly meetings of the Sustainability Team.

Responsibilities

• Storytelling & Communications
  • Create engaging content that showcases sustainability initiatives in dining (local sourcing, waste reduction, climate-conscious meals, etc.) across digital platforms, newsletters, and print materials.
  • Build cohesion and consistency across sustainability communications.
  • Conduct interviews with students, staff, chefs, vendors, and farmers to develop compelling stories and testimonials.
  • Develop and manage a communications calendar to support ongoing campaigns.
• Community Engagement
  • Collaborate with dining sustainability staff, chefs, student interns, and campus partners to plan and promote sustainability events.
  • Support and attend tabling events, farmers markets, DFCP events, and other outreach efforts.
  • Help coordinate and participate in local farm and farm tours.
  • Engage with various departments and student groups to expand sustainability messaging campus-wide.
• Marketing Support
  • Distribute marketing and promotional materials.
  • Assist in developing and executing campaigns aligned with LFPP (Local Food Promotion Program) grant goals and other sustainability initiatives.
  • Provide event coverage and documentation through photography, social media posts, or recaps.

Qualifications

• Graduate student with at least 3 semesters remaining.
• Outgoing, enthusiastic communicator with strong interpersonal skills.
• Experience or interest in marketing, communications, or storytelling (digital/print).
• Interest in sustainability, climate action, or local/regional food systems.
• Creative thinker who can translate complex sustainability topics into accessible, student-friendly content.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively; a self-starter who brings ideas and initiative.
• Familiarity with platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Canva, and video editing tools is a plus.

Schedule: This will be a hybrid position with some in-person hours required for meetings and events. The Communications Intern will be expected to work 10-15 hours each week with daytime and evening availability for scheduled tabling and events to be determined once hired.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume to Kathy Wicks, Director of Sustainability [email protected] and Monica Guzik, Sustainability Manager [email protected]