ISSUED: 21 August 2020
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University has been named a 2019 Tree Campus USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Campus USA is a national program launched in 2008 to honor colleges and universities and their leaders for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation.
To obtain this distinction, Shepherd met the five core standards for an effective campus forest management, including establishment of a tree advisory committee, evidence of a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance, and the sponsorship of student service-learning projects.
“Your entire campus community should be proud of your sustained commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation, in a letter announcing the designation. “We celebrate your diligence in improving the environment and quality of life at Shepherd University in 2019. We know that 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges—but you have shown that your commitment to trees is unwavering. Now more than ever, thank you for contributing to a healthier planet for all of us.”
Shepherd joins 364 campuses across the United States designated as a 2019 Tree Campus USA.
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