WM Students Aim to Replace Trees Lost to Irene

By Amber Lester Kennedy Thursday, September 15, 2011

Trees were destroyed all over campus, including this one in front of Blow Hall. Photo by Erin Zagursky.

In an effort to return some of the greenery that was lost, the William and Mary Student Assembly and the Office of Community Engagement and Scholarship are teaming up to replace trees on campus and in the surrounding community. The project, called “Deep Roots,” has already launched fundraising efforts, and organizers expect to begin planting new trees as soon as next month.

Student Assembly President Kaveh Sadeghian told W&M News the title of the campaign is symbolic beyond the reference to trees. It’s about the college’s relationship with Williamsburg. “Both entities are both incredibly deeply rooted with one another,” he said.

Each tree will cost approximately $50, but there is no minimum donation. The recipients of the trees will have five choices. The SA and OCES are working with the community to determine where to purchase the trees, who should receive them and who will plant them. The SA is also contacting student groups about possibly sponsoring trees.

Sadeghian hopes the project will show the community the students care. “I think that’s where our student body’s strength is, in the students’ hearts,” he said. “That’s where the real human connections happen, and that, I think, is one of our assets as a campus. I think if we give that to Williamsburg, not only are we helping our community out but we are also improving town/gown relations through a much more human, approachable perspective.”

Donations can be made online here. Under “other designation donors,” type donation code 3531 to designate the donation for trees. Donations can also be mailed to: Office of Community Engagement and Scholarship, Blow Memorial Hall Room 326, P.O. Box 8795, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795. For more information, call (757) 221-3263.