EIU Media Relations

EIU once again earns Tree Campus USA recognition

[Contributing Author: Megan Keane]

(Charleston, Illinois) — Eastern Illinois University has once again received word from the Arbor Day Foundation that the university has earned recognition as a “Tree Campus USA.” Eastern has received the distinction for several years running, providing abundant evidence of the university’s sustained commitment to and appreciation and maintenance of its campus trees.

Tree Campus USA recognizes college and university campuses that care for their campus trees and develop connectivity within the community in order to foster healthy forests. The Arbor Day Foundation outlines several benefits of being recognized as a Tree Campus partner. In the broadest sense, trees offer protection from the sun and wind while filtering breathable air. More distinctly, a university with a Tree Campus USA designation also benefits from reduced energy use; limiting the amount of carbon dioxide in the air; and engaging its students and residents by planting trees as a collaborative community activity.

“Eastern Illinois University’s campus is accentuated by a variety of trees and plantings meant to enhance the experience of our students and guests while committing to sustainable practices,” said Dr. Ryan Hendrickson, dean of the Graduate School at EIU and chair of the university’s tree advisory committee. “We are extremely thankful for our partnership with Tree Campus USA and for the day-to-day work of our amazing groundskeeping staff in showcasing EIU’s natural beauty throughout the year.”

EIU further demonstrates its commitment to trees via a strategic tree care plan, landscape and maintenance budgeting, Arbor Day observance, and service projects. Each plays a part in helping the university earn the Tree Campus USA status.

“EIU is proud of its commitment to helping create a more sustainable future by making our campus cleaner and greener,” Hendrickson said.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a million-member nonprofit conservation and education organization driven by a mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. In addition to EIU’s status as a Tree Campus USA, the Arbor Day Foundation website lists Charleston, Illinois has having held Tree City, USA status for the past 17 years. For more information about Tree Campus USA or Tree City USA initiatives, visit www.arborday.org.

For more information about EIU, or to learn more about its growing assortment of programs and services, visit the university’s website at www.eiu.edu, or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.

This year marks the 125^th Anniversary of EIU’s founding in 1895. EIU faculty, staff, students and alumni will commemorate this historic anniversary throughout the year with a variety of special events and activities throughout the year, including Homecoming. For upcoming information about EIU’s 125-year celebration activities, visit www.eiu.edu.