As members of the University community struggle to cope with
tragedies, they often come to the Memorial Chapel for solace and quiet
reflection. In a time when most people run their lives with an
overcrowded calendar and the world seems a bit more fragile, finding time
– let alone a place – to reflect is difficult. The Garden
of Reflection and Remembrance is such a place.
The Garden features several "rooms" that stimulate people to nurture their minds and spirits. It features:
- Heritage trees and shaded benches.
- An entry portal taking visitors
into a room with a reflection pool.
- Meandering paths leading into
densely planted gardens with benches featuring all-weather journals, allowing
visitors to reflect and write their thoughts.
- A primary pathway leading
to the hallmark element of the Garden, the labyrinth – a beautiful
creation of stone and fragrant thyme. Labyrinths have been used since the
Middle-Ages as a contemplative tool.
- Water elements showcased in
gathering spots.
- The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a beautiful fully
restored monument originally designed and funded by students in the 1980s.
The Garden is designed with sustainability as a cornerstone, following the
University’s Strategic Plan. Designs include a cistern and water
collection/distribution system to redirect storm water and use recycled
materials as much as possible, including pavers which will have the least
negative impact on plantings and trees.
Leadership and Landscape Architecture classes will be held at the Garden,
integrating the grounds and labyrinth into the curriculum. The Garden completed its first phase of construction and was dedicated in late Fall, 2010. The
project’s total costs are projected to be $900,000. Naming opportunities
have been identified.
THE DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS
Recognized nationally
for many of its programs, services and staff, the Division of Student Affairs
works collectively to offer students a world-class experience while at Maryland.
We strive to provide every student the opportunity to gain skills necessary to
contribute to our global society and to explore leadership in all of its various
forms. We believe students must graduate with the skills not only necessary to
succeed in the work place, but also to live healthy, balanced and civically
engaged lives.
GARDEN OF REFLECTION AND REMEMBRANCE PRIORITIES
- Raise $700,000 maintenance of the Garden.
- Endow
"the Garden Fund" allowing us to enhance programming and develop
future enhancements.
- Create a place where we can publicly recognize and
remember those who have served our nation.
- Improve the campus
environment through the creation of a "green friendly" and welcoming
Garden.
ADDITIONAL CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES
- Student Crisis Fund:
Removing financial burden and worry for students who have had major challenges
– funds to replace books, assist in times of family emergencies and
medical need.
- Contemporary Art Purchasing Program: Opening the
eyes of students and community members to the varied perspectives and cultures
of contemporary artists. Giving students the unique occasion to meet with
artists, gallery managers and curators to learn the world of art as a
business.
- America Reads*America Counts and Partners in Print:
Giving students the opportunity to not only make a difference in the life of a
young person at risk, but also to consider careers in teaching and the
non-profit sector.
- Veterans Scholarships: Providing critical
resources to fill the gap between Veterans Administration benefits and the
actual cost of an education. Scholarships are often the only way our vets can
attend college; many also are providing for families.
- Alternative
Breaks: Developing critical thinking skills while giving students the
opportunity to better understand the impact one citizen’s involvement can
have locally and globally. Deep education on issues such as border awareness,
the justice system, HIV/AIDS, poverty and education.
We call on all those who value our work – alumni, students, faculty,
partners and friends – to come forward, contribute their knowledge, energy
and financial resources, and help us improve student lives so that they, in turn
will change the world. Join with us to achieve Great Expectations!
View Naming Opportunities for the Garden of Reflection
& Remembrance View Naming Opportunities for the Memorial
Chapel Return to
Priorities Go to
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