As the campus continues to phase up on its environmental sustainability awareness, locals within the community show immense support by stepping in with the recently proposed tree planting memorial.
Located at the east end of campus, a proposal to plant 150 trees along Highway 41 holds for strong potential. In hopes of restoring the beauty lost to a group of four large trees compromised by the newly expanded road, local resident Dan Lorenzetti became a strong candidate for the plan. Lorenzetti, who is owner of Superior Block in Houghton remarked, “I want to see that approach to campus beautified immediately.”
Lorenzetti spoke with MTU President Glenn Mroz about a plan for local citizens to sponsor a tree in memory or honor for individuals these citizens value. Paula Nutini, director of annual giving at Michigan Tech, instigated a plan for “Memorial Grove.” The grove is believed by both Lorenzetti and the MTU board to establish a strong incentive for contribution. An individual may sponsor a tree for $600 in honor of someone they know. The honoree’s name will then be posted on a plaque that maps the grove. While working with Nutini, Lorenzetti added, “Paula and I have old family names too in the Copper Country and we understand how important this is to our families, children and grandchildren.”
Tree planting will start at the Michigan Tech welcome sign near the Rosza Center and will continue eastward along Highway 41. The Broomball arenas were moved from their original locations which are now centered between the Walker Arts and Humanities building and the Hamar House Counseling Center.
According to Lorenzetti, the project is purported to span 15 years of service. “I want the trees to be on a good start and be on a significant role towards their growth,” states Lorenzetti.
Tree species will be selected by MTU’s facilities management department. Species will consist of three to four various deciduous and coniferous trees.
Excitement over the proposal was disclosed by both the MTU board and Lorenzetti himself. Shea Mcgrew, vice president for advancement at Michigan Tech mentioned, “Dan Lorenzetti approached us about this, and we agreed it was a wonderful idea.” President Mroz went on to add, “We thank Dan Lorenzetti for this creative proposal that will further beautify and green-up the Michigan Tech campus.”
These memorial groves have been established at universities and campuses elsewhere as well. University of Illinois’ “Circle Memorial Grove” was dedicated in memory of the Physical Plant staff at its college and was established in 1968. Indiana University and the University of North Carolina have also undergone similar implementations.
Any individual can sponsor a tree in memory or honor of someone they know. Persons looking to sponsor a tree should contact Paula Nutini, director of annual giving at MTU, at 487-3609; pjnutini@mtu.edu, or Dan Lorenzetti at 482-2731; dan@superiorblock.com.