Supporting a Sustainable Vision for KU’s Beauty
In the bustling heart of the University of Kansas lies a vibrant, beautiful ecosystem. Every tulip on Jayhawk Boulevard, every native grass swaying in the breeze and every historic tree in Marvin Grove tells a story of dedication and stewardship. Our campus, influenced by the vast expanse of our state’s landscape, aims to stand out visually as a brand, incorporating a masterplan that embraces native grasses and plants and weaving them into the fabric of student life. Behind this harmony of flora and fauna lies KU Grounds, a passionate team working to elevate the campus to new heights.
Maintaining the delicate balance between sustainability and aesthetics requires more than just passion — it requires support. KU Landscape Manager Joe Fearn and his team, despite being equipped, often encounter situations where additional funding could make all the difference. Donor support allows the grounds crew to meet the demands of preserving and enhancing Mount Oread’s natural splendor. This includes upgrading equipment, offering a skilled crew competitive compensation and completing projects that may otherwise be put on hold.
“The incredible funding One Day One KU provides helps us to do great work. Without it, we’d only be able to do good work,” Fearn said. “One Day One KU enables people to put their money toward something that is tangible over time. With $100 we can buy ten flowering perennial plants. But if ten people donate $100, that’s an impact, year after year.”
The lasting impact from every gift, no matter the size, fuels the ongoing transformation of our campus into a breathtaking masterpiece. Donor support allows KU Grounds to plant native grasses, maintain historic trees and create awe-inspiring landscapes that captivate visitors and instill pride in every Jayhawk. From studying under a tree or gathering with friends along Jayhawk Boulevard, the campus landscape plays a vital role in shaping students’ college experiences, providing spaces for relaxation, social interaction and inspiration. Fearn’s passion for the campus landscape and the dedicated crew are behind it all.
“The landscape at KU is the only aspect of the campus that every person interacts with,” he said. “This is where the magic happens. Our team is unified in creating a landscape that reflects our highest aspirations.”
By contributing to the Landscape Manager Fund, you become an integral part of our campus’s legacy. You empower the KU Grounds team alongside campus partners, students and staff to balance beauty with sustainability and create landscapes that not only “wow” today but endure for generations to come.