University News

WIU Political Science Professor Named Global Sustainability Champion

September 24, 2025

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MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University Professor of Political Science and Program Coordinator Casey LaFrance, has been selected as one of only six Global Sustainability Champions representing North America by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and Green Project Management® (GPM). He is among just 30 individuals worldwide chosen for this distinction.

He was chosen based on his 20+ years of experience and sustainable project management primarily in real area as an Appalachian in the American Midwest, as well as his training as a certified PMP, DAVSC, LSSMBB, GPM-b and a certified ISO 14000, 50000, 9001, 27001, 14385, 31000, 35000 auditor.

In this role, LaFrance will collaborate with PMI and GPM to design and implement community-oriented projects and training programs focused on sustainability. His efforts will also include exploring opportunities to secure Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) funding to support projects in the region.

PMI is widely recognized as the leading authority in project management, best known for its globally respected certifications, including the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential—the gold standard in the field. The organization's involvement in global sustainability initiatives underscores the significance of LaFrance's appointment.

"I am overwhelmed with gratitude at the opportunity to serve as a Global Sustainability Champion for the Project Management Institute and GPM joint venture!
I'm especially excited to apply ideas and proven practices in sustainable project management in the classroom at Western Illinois University and in the other work that I do in the education & nonprofit world with Veteran Project Manager Mentor Alliance (VPMMA), Autismazing.org and Neurodiversity Foundation. WIU students will benefit as potential projects, grants, curriculum and internship opportunities in this area are developed and executed," LaFrance said.

WIU is one of only three universities in North America with a faculty member serving as a PMI/GPM Global Sustainability Champion. With this recognition, WIU strengthens its position as a hub for expertise in sustainable project management, a rapidly expanding field with strong potential for workforce development, compliance needs, student engagement, research opportunities and external funding.

For more information on the PMI/GPM Sustainability Champions initiative, visit LinkedIn: PMI/GPM Sustainability Champions Kickoff. For more information on WIU's Political Science program, visit wiu.edu/cas/political_science.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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