On Tuesday, January 21, 2020, St. Edward’s University was honored with 2019 Tree Campus USA® recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to effective urban forest management. Tree Campus USA, an Arbor Day Foundation program, honors colleges and universities and their leaders for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation.
“If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. St. Edward’s University is stepping up to do its part. As a result of your commitment to effective urban forest management, you are helping to provide a solution to these global challenges” says Lauren Weyers, Program Coordinator for the Arbor Day Foundation.
“Tree Campuses and their students set examples for not only their student bodies but the surrounding communities showcasing how trees create a healthier environment…because of St. Edward’s University’s participation air will be purer, water cleaner and your students and faculty will be surrounded by the shade and beauty the trees provide.”
—Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation.
The Tree Campus USA program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and for engaging staff and students in conservation goals. St. Edward’s University achieved the title by meeting Tree Campus USA’s five standards, which include maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance and student service-learning project. Currently there are 385 campuses across the United States with this recognition.