For the tenth consecutive year, Waubonsee Community College has achieved national recognition as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution. The Tree Campus Higher Education is a program established in 2008 by the Arbor Day Foundation and honors colleges and universities for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation. Currently, there are 403 campuses across the United States with this recognition.
To obtain this distinction, Waubonsee Community College met the five core standards for effective campus forest management, including the 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.
“Waubonsee Community College actively manages our campus urban forest of 200 plus acres of trees, shrubs, and wildlife areas with an emphasis on diversity, sustainability, and esthetic appeal,” said Joseph Zappia, Grounds Supervisor. “It is the goal of the Waubonsee Grounds Department to provide a serene and facilitative environment from which our students can learn from and enjoy the natural environment.”
The college is committed to promoting sustainability and improving the environment. Receiving the Tree Campus Higher Education recognition is evidence of this commitment.
