John Carroll University has been awarded Tree Campus USA status, joining 23 other schools in Ohio named as recipients of the honor. The award is reflective of John Carroll’s commitment to the environment in several different facets.
Tree Campus USA status is indicative of the dedicated efforts of the student body to plant and track tree growth and educate the community. Student organizations including the Environmental Interest Group partnered with departments on campus, namely the Biology Department, and together showcased their care for these issues around the community.
“Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. Trees are helping to provide a solution to these global challenges,” said Jeff Your, Science Buyer Manager, Central Scientific Stores and Laboratory Support Services at John Carroll, on receiving Tree Campus USA status. “John Carroll University is stepping up to do its part. As a Catholic Jesuit institution, and in keeping with Jesuit universal apostolic preferences, we are committed to care for our earthly Common Home as we accompany young people in the creation of a hope-filled future.”
Last Arbor Day, Dr. Michael D. Johnson, president of John Carroll University, ceremoniously planted the 1,000th tree on John Carroll’s campus. Although the recognition is linked to this celebration, it is even more representative of the hard work and inspiring nature of the students and faculty that are striving to make a difference every day. Tree Campus USA status is an incredible distinction for John Carroll to receive, and would not be possible without the continued efforts of those individuals on campus.
To achieve Tree Campus USA status, a college or university must achieve the following core standards. First, a campus advisory committee, made up of a student, a faculty member, a facilities employee, and a member of the community, must be established. Next, a tree care plan is created, followed by a campus tree program; together, this ensures that the trees will be taken care of from a grounds perspective as well as ensuring that there will be annual budgetary considerations for maintenance. Finally, the school must commit to observing Arbor Day annually and implement a service learning project within the year of Tree Campus recognition.
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ABOUT TREE CAMPUS USA
Tree Campus USA, a national program launched in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation, honors colleges and universities and their leaders for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation. Tree Campus USA is supported by a grant from Toyota.
ABOUT THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION
The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit conservation and education organization of one million members, with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. More information on the Foundation and its programs can be found at arborday.org, or by visiting us on Facebook, Twitter or our blog.