Denison University is known for being one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation. The bountiful plantings, well-maintained lawns, and healthy trees are all under the care of a group of people who are dedicated to excellence in their work. Each of the college’s grounds crew has just been awarded Certified Grounds Technician (GCT) recognition from the Professional Grounds Management Society.
Kevin Mercer, manager of the grounds and landscape division, said, “It’s very rare that an entire grounds team can accomplish such a task. The accreditation process takes up to a year to prepare for. I’m very proud of their hard work and professionalism. In addition to the GCT recognition, we are only the 12th college in the country to have earned PGMS accreditation.”
David English, Denison’s vice president for finance and management, recognized Mercer’s role in achieving this goal. “I appreciate Kevin’s hard work and determination, as well as his leadership in leading the grounds crew and improving campus appearance. I routinely now hear comments around town about how idyllic our grounds look.”
English added, “A beautiful campus adds more than simply aesthetic value for our students. These lovely spaces create environments that are conducive to quick ‘touching-base’ contacts and lively social gatherings, as well as quiet places for study, organization meetings, and student wellness practices.”
The CGT is based on the overall grounds maintenance field and a specific region. Once accreditation has been earned, members must earn 35 Continuing Education Units over a five-year period. The Professional Grounds Management Society is an individual membership society of grounds professionals, representing over 1,000 industry professional in the United States, with members in Canada and overseas. It is the oldest individual membership organization for grounds professionals and advances the grounds management professional through education and professional development.