Jan Martin, third from left, with LSU students and staff at the first annual Spring Greening Day.

Dozens of volunteers from across campus rolled up their sleeves April 30, 2010, to help beautify LSU’s grounds on the university’s first annual Spring Greening Day. The day marked the first major campus project undertaken by the LSU Foundation’s Campus Beautification Fund, supported by a generous contribution from Raising Cane’s and by proceeds from the LSU Ornament.

The Campus Beautification Fund supplied materials to volunteers on 30 campus sites. Volunteers planted flowers, ground cover and ornamental shrubs; laid sod; and spread mulch. Included among the site projects were permanent improvements to ornamental plantings, like azaleas and camellias, and ground cover, like jasmine and ivy, to minimize seasonal planting.

“We are excited about the students joining our staff as we all work together to enhance the incredible natural beauty of our campus during this special sesquicentennial celebration. What a perfect year to kick off this event!" said Fred Fellner, assistant director of Landscape Services.

Spring Greening Day allowed LSU’s Landscape Services to get summer plantings in place in a single day, as opposed to several weeks.

"By pulling students outside their niches and into the open air to plant flowers for the LSU community, we can establish roots in organizations that would otherwise have no ties with green initiatives," said Elizabeth Hingle, member of the Spring Greening Day Student Advisory Committee. "Spring Greening Day events also help students open their eyes to a brighter future for LSU's campus and the Baton Rouge community through sustainability in a fun and interactive way."

The Albermarle Foundation, LSU Student Government and the Student Activities Board funded additional activities held in conjunction with Spring Greening Day.

"In my opinion, an event like Spring Greening Day gives the average student a sense of ownership over their campus," said Cas Smith, member of the Spring Greening Day Student Advisory Committee Member and director of sustainability for LSU Student Government. "Additionally, the event’s sustainable message is a great opportunity to advocate for ways an individual can protect their planet."

“The Spring Greening Day is a great opportunity for LSU students to have a ‘hands on’ experience to learn about landscaping and, more importantly, to show their pride in our campus. This event also sets an example for the greater Baton Rouge community to strive to beautify our entire city.”
Jan Martin, wife of LSU Chancellor Michael Martin