By: Megan Dick | Staff Writer
Earth Week was celebrated on Salve’s campus from April 22nd to April 28th, with events hosted by multiple organizations.
One of the first events was a tree planting and award ceremony on April 22nd – Earth Day! The tree planted was a Japanese Stewartia, representing resilience and serenity. The event included speeches and blessings from Salve President Kelli Armstrong and Sister Therese Antone, among others. The Earth Champion award ceremony followed, where painted birdhouses were given to students, faculty and staff who have shown commitment to sustainability at Salve. Such individuals are clear representations of Salve’s commitment to its critical concern of the Earth.
Japanese Stewartia planted
Other happenings included a meditation, movie screening, blood drive, keynote speaker, sabbath, and more. The Earth Week Tree Meditation was led by Dr. Paula Martasian, Salve Yoga Club advisor. The group meditated around McAuley Rose Garden and the Cliff Walk, while connecting with the natural world. There was also a movie screening and discussion of Human Flow, a film about the global refugee crisis.
One of the final activities during the week was the inaugural Salve Farmer’s Market and Field Day. There were vendors including We Be Jammin’ RI and A-Mart Market as well as exhibits by Salve’s Hydroponics Club, the Salve Treehawks and the Rhode Island Resource Recovery. There was even a free pop-up thrift shop.
Part of the farmer’s market event was an Arboretum Tour led by Hannah Maguire, president of the Salve Treehawks. The tour focused on Gerety lawn with participants admiring the beautiful arboretum Salve has to offer. The trees seen included European Beeches, Umbrella Pines and a London Planetree. You could see the passion for nature within all attendees.
Treehawks president, Hannah Maguire, informing attendees about the London Planetree, her personal favorite.
The Earth Week celebrations at Salve continue to grow and plans for next year’s events are already in the works.
