The Science of Student Commutes: Designing Surveys That Deliver Results

Date: September 15, 2026
Time: 4:20 PM – 4:50 PM
Ballroom H

Transportation is often one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for schools, universities, and public agencies, yet many organizations lack reliable data to inform decision-making. This session explores science-based best practices for designing and administering transportation commuter surveys using California State University, Northridge’s (CSUN) Student Transportation Survey as a case study. Attendees will learn how to collect high-quality transportation data, improve survey response rates, and minimize data cleaning through effective survey design. The session will also demonstrate how survey results can support GHG inventories, Transportation Demand Management (TDM) planning, and the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) by identifying commuting patterns, charging needs, and opportunities to reduce vehicle emissions. Participants from higher education, state, and local government will leave with practical tools to strengthen transportation planning, sustainability initiatives, and data-driven climate action.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Attendees will learn:

• A science-based method for survey design
• Best practices on administering surveys on a college campus, state buildings and city wide
• What and how to ask questions to avoid data cleaning and wasted time interpreting results
• How calculations from survey results can inform transportation and greenhouse gas inventories

Speakers:
Aspen Coty, Sustainability and Zero Waste Coordinator, California State University Northridge
Jalen Bolden, Sustainability Program Coordinator, California State University Northridge

Aspen became CSUN’s Sustainability and Zero Waste Coordinator in 2022. She holds degrees in Environmental Science and Resource Management from CSU Channel Islands and Geography from CSUN. A first-generation college graduate, Aspen is passionate about working within the public system and advancing accessible, mission-driven initiatives. In addition, she lectures for CSUN’s Sustainability master’s program teaching mixed methods for research, supporting students in developing applied, interdisciplinary research skills.

Aspen began her sustainability career as a student assistant with Facilities Services Sustainability at CSU Channel Islands, where she developed an interest in higher education sustainability. She spent five years conducting research on California Channel Islands before returning “home” to CSUN to focus on zero waste and campus sustainability efforts.

As a CSU alumna, Aspen is committed to helping CSUN achieve its Zero Waste goals while fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture of sustainability. Since joining CSUN, she has led zero waste bin standardization across campus, helped develop CSUN’s Sustainability Plan, supported a campus Move-Out Donation Program, and contributed to CSUN earning Tree Campus recognition for the eleventh consecutive year. By building strong relationships across departments, faculty, and students, Aspen works to ensure everyone has a meaningful role in advancing sustainability at CSUN.

Jalen Bolden is CSUN’s Sustainability Program Coordinator, he is the newest staff member but has a vast history with CSUN Sustainability. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, along with a minor and a master’s degree in Sustainability, all from California State University, Northridge. Growing up, Jalen developed a strong passion for the environment alongside a love for problem-solving, which led him to pursue a career that combines both in meaningful ways. Jalen began his work in sustainability at CSUN as a California Climate Action Corps (CCAC) Fellow, where he supported campus initiatives under the guidance of Sustainability and Zero Waste Coordinator Aspen Coty. In this role, he contributed to a range of projects focused on zero waste, energy, and transportation. He also played a key role in launching new recycling programs on campus, including initiatives for soft plastics and disposable gloves. As a CSUN alumnus, Jalen is committed to advancing sustainability efforts within his campus community. His goal is to help create a more sustainable future by expanding impactful programs and empowering others to take part in environmental stewardship.