Portales, NM – April 24, 2023 – Eastern New Mexico University was honored with 2022 Tree Campus Higher Education recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation. This is the third consecutive year ENMU has received this honor.
The Arbor Day Foundation is the world's largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. Its Tree Campus Higher Education program began in 2008 to encourage colleges and universities to plant trees on their campuses.
Trees on campus and in urban spaces can lower energy costs by providing shade cover, cleaner air and water, and green spaces for students and faculty. In addition, trees improve students' mental and cognitive health, provide an appealing aesthetic for campuses, and create shaded areas for studying and gathering.
"Trees not only play a vital role in the environment but also in our daily lives," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Having trees on college and university campuses is a great way to show a commitment to students and faculty's overall wellbeing."
The Tree Campus Higher Education program honors colleges and universities for effective campus forest management and engaging staff and students in conservation goals. Currently, there are 411 campuses across the United States with this recognition.
"Our Grounds and Facilities staff do an outstanding job of managing our trees and landscape," said James Johnston, ENMU President. "Their efforts create a beautiful campus environment for all to enjoy. ENMU is proud to do its part to maintain healthy trees and a healthier environment."
Eastern New Mexico University is holding an Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 28. The celebration will include a presentation by Dr. Kenwyn Cradock in JWLA Room 112 at 10 a.m. and a ceremonial tree planting outside of the Administration Building at 11 a.m. Both events are free and open to the public.
More information about the Tree Campus Higher Education Program is available at treecampushighered.org.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the world's largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. With a focus in communities and forests of greatest need, the Foundation — alongside its more than 1 million members, supporters and valued partners — has helped to plant nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries. Guided by its mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation is committed to unlocking the power of trees to help solve critical issues facing people and the planet. Learn more about the impact of the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org.
