The Arbor Day Foundation recognized The Ohio State University as a 2025 Tree Campus for its dedication to enhancing community well-being through tree education, investment and community engagement.
“Being recognized as a Tree Campus reflects the long-term care and intention we put into our landscapes, said Stephen Schneider, landscape services planner for Facilities Operations and Development (FOD). “Our trees aren’t just part of the campus aesthetic, they’re living infrastructure that supports sustainability, well-being and a healthier campus environment for generations of Buckeyes to come.”
This is the 14th year Ohio State has received the distinction, which honors colleges and universities for effective campus urban forest management and engaging staff and students in conservation.
To earn Tree Campus recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation, colleges and universities must uphold five core standards including maintain an advisory committee, set a campus tree care plan, verify annual investment in the tree care plan, celebrate Arbor Day, and create a service-learning project aimed at engaging the student body.
“Trees have the power to inspire learning and improve well-being,” said Michelle Saulnier, vice president of programs at the Arbor Day Foundation. “By growing campus green spaces, forward-thinking higher education leaders like Ohio State are cultivating vibrant learning communities that also benefit the greater environment.”