WWU Arbor Day celebration honors Class of 2012

5/8/2012 Mary Ann Beahon
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (573) 592-1127

 

A student organization at William Woods University recently chose to give back to their alma mater by planting a tree in honor of the Class of 2012.

The organization, Knowing the Woods, planted a white chestnut swamp oak tree along Senior Lake in honor of Arbor Day and the senior class.
 
Kelcie Spradley, founding president of Knowing the Woods and a graduating senior, said the tree was a way of recognizing the achievements of the senior class.
 
"It is also in remembrance of always finding a way to give back to an organization and the community," she said.
 
Sharon Mather, club adviser, spoke at the dedication about life after graduation, volunteering and how to find the right charitable organization to which to donate time or money.  She used Kelcie Spradley and her parents, Bill and Chris Spradley, as examples of generous philanthropists to WWU.
 
Two years ago, the Spradleys donated 50 trees, plants, and flowers and provided the labor to plant it all. In addition, they have continued to provide several trees for the beautification of the campus. 

Last year the Spradleys were instrumental in William Woods becoming the first campus in the state of Missouri to be recognized as an Arbor Day Foundation Tree Campus USA, a designation that was renewed this year.
 
"I have been privileged to work with Kelcie and her parents over the last few years," Mather said, "and I am grateful for their support."

CUTLINES:

Sharon Mather speaks to the students at the Arbor Day tree planting.

Kelcie Spradley, a graduating senior, is the founder of Knowing the Woods.

Kelcie Spradley and Sharon Mather pose with the newly planted tree.