Graduating Class Honored with Lasting Tribute

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AIKEN, SC (06/06/2018) The University of South Carolina Aiken honored graduating classes by planting trees used during their commencement exercises.

For the Class of 2018, which graduated May 9, the university's master gardeners planted a Savannah Holly, a Summer Red Maple, and a Japanese Cedar, all of which are now located near the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center and Parking Lot C, which is one of the largest student lots on campus.

The new tree-planting practice started with the Class of 2017 that graduated in December. Right after commencement, the university planted a D.D. Blanchard Southern Magnolia, which was the first one planted near the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center and Parking Lot C.

All these trees were on stage for their respective class' commencement exercises and provided a handsome backdrop for the guest speakers and VIP guests on the dais.

This spring, USC Aiken was designated a Tree Campus USA -- again. This program recognizes those institutions that promote healthy trees and enrolls the campus community, including faculty, staff, and students in its conservation efforts.

"Your entire campus community should be proud of this sustained commitment to environmental stewardship," wrote Lauren Weyers, program coordinator for the Arbor Day Foundation, at the time of the announcement.