Congratulations to the University of Chicago for being recognized as a 2021 Tree Campus Higher Education. Founded in 2008, Tree Campus Higher Education, an Arbor Day Foundation program, nationally honors colleges and universities for promoting healthy trees and green space, and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation.
To obtain this distinction, the University of Chicago met the five core standards for sustainable campus forestry required by Tree Campus Higher Education, including establishment of a tree advisory committee, evidence of a campus tree care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for the campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and the sponsorship of student service-learning projects.
Kathleen Golomb, manager of campus environment led the certification process and explained, “Trees are a vital component of the infrastructure of our campus and provide environmental and economic benefits. Recognizing these benefits and providing the necessary ongoing care and planting of trees is fundamental to our campus-wide botanic garden and sustainability strategies. Obtaining and maintaining the Tree Campus Higher Education designation is an opportunity to further promote the stewardship and conservation of our urban trees and increase outreach to the University community and beyond.”
Lauren Weyers, Program Manager – Arbor Day Foundation noted, “If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Your diligence in improving the environment and quality of life at your school contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world for us all. Your entire campus community should be proud of this sustained commitment to environmental stewardship.”