Roots and Remembrance: York Blooms for Earth Day

Earth Day 2025 was a momentous occasion at York College, as our community of students, faculty, and staff united to rejuvenate our campus with a vibrant planting project, a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability and beauty.

Held on April 22 across the front and rear plazas of the main building, the “campus beautification project” wasn’t just about greenery -- it was also about remembrance -- in memory of two beloved former professors, who lovingly cared for campus plants in their final years.

“We couldn’t have wished for a more perfect day to celebrate Mother Earth and honor the memories of Professors Smickle and Austin,” said York College President Dr. Claudia Schrader. “I’m grateful to the Committee on Campus Environment and Facilities, our Buildings and Grounds team, and the 45+ volunteers who came out to plant flowers—and to deepen the roots of community and camaraderie at York.”

With support from the Office of the President, Communications and Marketing, Student Activities, and Buildings and Grounds, the planting effort featured blooms and supplies sourced from the nearby Home Depot. A custom T-shirt logo, designed by Temitope Adelegan of the Office of Institutional Advancement, added a special touch. Meanwhile, YC Radio’s DJ Bryan Graves kept the energy high by pumping the music throughout the day.

Now comes the next challenge: keeping the new plants thriving. Plans for ongoing maintenance, to be shared soon, will provide an opportunity for all of us to play a part in this ongoing project.