06/09/2026
Student move-out at SUNY Cortland continues to promote sustainability in the local community.
Red Dragon Reuse, a joint effort between the university and local nonprofit partner Cortland ReUse, has reached new heights again 2026, helping to rehome roughly 4,000 pounds of dorm supplies and five acres of clothing donations.
That’s a record amount for the award-winning initiative. Now in its fourth year, the shared effort reduces waste by collecting gently used items as SUNY Cortland students move out of residence halls and reselling them at modest prices at Cortland ReUse’s storefront.
Early results in 2026 have been bolstered by a permanent location for Cortland ReUse. Now located at 113 Port Watson Street in Cortland, the nonprofit added a clothing sale featuring student donations this spring. Some of the other most popular donated items were area rugs, storage containers, trash cans, cooling fans, desk lamps and mirrors.
In 2025, the community partner won a nonprofit sector award from the New York State Association for Reduction, Reuse and Recycling (NYSAR3).
“Our Red Dragon Reuse project has quickly become one of SUNY Cortland’s signature sustainability events and a wonderful success story related to landfill diversion in our community,” said Megan Swing, the university’s energy and sustainability engagement coordinator. “As the saying goes, it takes a village and we are grateful for all of the support that we receive, from students on our campus to the leadership at Cortland ReUse to supporters in the larger community.”
The collective effort was assisted by 47 community members and who volunteered their time in the semester’s final weeks to collect, transport and sort residence hall essentials.
In addition to collecting gently used items for recirculation, the university also donates to campus and local partners. For instance, foam bed toppers are provided to the university’s Performing Arts Department for future stage props and to Cortland County Community Action Program (CAPCO) for people in need. The Rescue Mission in Syracuse also receives rugs, pillows and bedding essentials.
Carrie Narrow, executive director for Cortland ReUse, said the nonprofit counted more than 2,500 foam pads, donating many to shelters and community members who are unhoused.
“This year, we have focused on the detrimental effects of foam pads impacting our local landfill — with a decomposition rate of 50 of 100 years,” Narrow said, stressing the importance of reusing them or upcycling them in creative ways.
SUNY Cortland will again look to host a campus pop-up s ale with collected items for students arriving for move-in on Aug. 26 and 27 in the Student Life Center’s Outdoor Pursuits garage from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition to reducing waste, Red Dragon Reuse helps educate students and the local community about the benefits of a circular economy. SUNY Cortland’s partnership with Cortland ReUse also includes crafting workshops, site visits and other outreach aimed at finding sustainable solutions throughout the year.