Since 1985, the University of Nevada, Reno has been considered a State Arboretum Campus by the Nevada State Legislature. The campus supports over 200 species and 60 genera of trees. The most notable include the 36 ginormous elms around the Main Quad leading up to Morrill Hall. This quote from the University of Nevada, Reno Arboretum's webpage helps explain the purpose of the State Arboretum:
“An Arboretum is a living museum, so it functions as an educational space for the community. We strive to provide a healthy space for both the community and the trees and shrubs living there.”
Recently, the Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN) Department of Sustainability partnered with the Arboretum Board and Grounds Services to further the University’s designation as a State Arboretum Campus.
The Graduation Tree Project
In 2025, the ASUN Department of Sustainability started the Graduation Tree Project, an initiative to plant a tree dedicated to the graduating class each year. Sephora Lee, the ASUN director of sustainability during the 93rd ASUN session, started this project as an ongoing piece of ASUN’s $3.3 million budget. Seniors vote on what type of tree to plant as part of a survey that is distributed.
In 2025, the Department of Sustainability planted a blue icy cypress, and in 2026, an incense cedar was planted in honor of the graduating class. These trees are planted on or around Arbor Day in the Manzanita Bowl. Any students and community members are welcome to attend the Graduation Tree Project event called “Trees for Degrees.”
Trees as a sign of impermanence
The 2025 ASUN Director of Sustainability, Sephora Lee, highlighted how the Graduation Tree Project demonstrated one’s impermanence.
“Having a tree be the representation of this project speaks to the beauty of natural life, both around and within us. While we may not notice or even experience the fruits of our labor, we must recognize the value of change and growth,” Lee said.
Lee’s words echo those of Nelson Henderson: “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
These ideas encompassed not only environmental stewardship, but also the idea of serving future generations you might never meet.
