Texas Tech's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources marked its annual celebration of sustainability and community this week, with its annual Arbor Day event Friday (April 25). The event, which featured eight CASNR organizations, is a partnership among Student Union & Activities, Hospitality Services, Center for Campus Life, Tech Activities Board, Grounds Maintenance and the Texas Tech Ethics Center.

Arbor Day is a great opportunity for Red Raiders to come together to beautify the campus and understand the importance of service while building a sense of community, said Michael Galyean, dean of Tech's College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

It allows for students, faculty, staff and alumni to celebrate in a fun way by enjoying music, food and planting right in the heart of campus, he said. CASNR organizations participating in the annual campus wide program included Agri-Techsans; Ambassadors for Agriculture; Block and Bridle; CASNR Learning Community; Collegiate FFA; Meat Science Association; Pre-Vet Society; and Student American Society of Landscape Architects.

When Texas Tech first started, most of the funds went towards the buildings, but the campus was lacking its landscape. Then, in 1937, President Knapp decided to dedicate one day every spring to beautify the campus. Today, the Tech tradition continues as students, staff and faculty beautify the campus on Arbor Day.

Written by Norman Martin

CONTACT: Michael Galyean, Dean, College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2808 or michael.galyean@ttu.edu

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