Denison University's Swasey Chapel

Denison University has earned “Tree Campus USA” status, accorded by the Arbor Day Foundation, a nonprofit organization that seeks to inspire individuals and institutions “to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.” The program recognizes that Denison “strives to engage its student body, as well as the broader community, to establish and sustain healthy community forests for the benefit of current and future residents.”

Denison’s continuing commitment to sustainability recognizes the value of trees. Across the college’s 900-acre campus, which includes its 550-acre Biological Reserve, trees reduce energy use by providing shade and protection from the wind. They introduce oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. And trees provide green spaces that are used for reading and studying, as well as for socializing and outdoor activities and leisure.

Jeremy King, sustainability coordinator at Denison and member of the Campus Tree Advisory Committee, said “We are very excited that Denison has received this endorsement. This has been the result of more than a year’s work to develop a sound strategy for maintaining and expanding Denison’s treescape. We hope that this recognition inspires the campus to appreciate both the beauty of our trees and the other tangible benefits they give us.”

In order to merit its “Tree Campus USA” status, Denison met several criteria, such as creating a Campus Tree Advisory Committee that includes faculty, students, staff and a member of the Granville community; constructing a campus tree care plan; designating a dedicated annual budget to accomplish the campus tree plan goals; educating the campus and greater community with an Arbor Day Observance; and engaging the community in service learning.

Members of the Denison Tree Advisory Committee are Mark Comisford, supervisor for grounds and roads; Michael Ecker, director of horticulture at Dawes Arboretum; Aaron Fulecki, senior web architect; Warren Hauk, associate professor of biology; James Hale, production manager for University Communications; Jeremy King, campus sustainability coordinator; Andrew McCall, assistant professor of biology; Lauren Sabo, a Denison senior; and Jim Siegel, a member of the Granville community.