University Designated Tree Campus USA

The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Virginia Commonwealth University as a 2012 Tree Campus USA, adding another notch to VCU's ever-growing green designations.

The recognition stems from the university's record-breaking Arbor Day event last year, when university members planted 290 trees — a record for a Tree Campus USA event.

In an email to those involved, VCU President Michael Rao wrote, "Your outstanding support for the event … was instrumental in VCU's receiving this distinguished recognition, which also aligns with our Quest for Distinction."

The Arbor Day Foundation, along with Toyota Motor North America Inc., launched Tree Campus USA in 2008, to honor universities that promote healthy trees and community involvement in environmentalism. To receive the designation, colleges must meet five core standards comprising having a campus tree advisory committee, care plan and program with dedicated annual expenditures as well as an Arbor Day observance and a service learning project.

"Trees are a vital component of campus infrastructure and landscaping," wrote foundation CEO John Rosenow. "First, properly placed trees create a welcoming space for students, staff and alumni, providing much-needed relief from heat and a quiet place to reflect or study. Second, trees keep our air and water clean and remove harmful pollutants. Third, trees save money by reducing energy use and improving storm water management."