The Flagler College community gathered Monday outside of the Alumni House to celebrate Arbor Day with the planting of a Japanese blueberry tree as part of the College’s annual Science Week festivities.
The event brought together students, faculty, staff, and members of the local community to recognize the importance of campus green spaces while continuing Flagler’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The newly planted tree now fills the space where a southern magnolia, which suffered saltwater damage and became unhealthy, was removed last year. According to Grounds Manager Chris Bodor, the Japanese blueberry tree was selected with both beauty and practicality in mind.
“This is the right tree for the right place because it produces minimal blooms and fruit, ensuring that sidewalks around the Alumni House are kept clear of droppings and debris,” Bodor said.
Bodor also noted that the tree was acquired through the support of local partners Eddie Conlon of Tree Medic and Dan Muse of Coastline Landscaping, who helped install the tree during the event. Flagler Executive Director of Facilities Joe Bruce and Facilities Coordinator Cheryl Graham also played a significant role in helping coordinate the Arbor Day celebration.
Science Week is designed to raise awareness and funding for Flagler College science programs through sponsorships, ticket sales, a silent auction, and donations. The week’s programming is presented in collaboration with the College’s Science Advisory Board.
For Bodor, the Arbor Day celebration reflected the connection between the campus landscape and the people who use it every day.
“It was very rewarding to see faculty, students, staff, and the local community come together today,” Bodor said. “Our green spaces are more than backdrops for photos; they are used for studying and gathering. They are an important part of our vibrant campus, and a reminder that we are always in a state of growth.”
Flagler College’s Arbor Day celebration also supports its participation in the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Campus program, a national initiative that helps colleges and universities build and maintain sustainable campus forestry practices. As part of the certification process, Flagler developed a Tree Care Management Plan in partnership with faculty and the Facilities Department in 2024.
Last year’s inaugural Arbor Day event during Science Week featured the planting of a redbud tree, continuing a growing tradition of honoring the natural spaces that help define the Flagler College experience.
More information on the efforts of the National Arbor Day Foundation can be found here: https://www.arborday.org
