Three minutes later, the landscape was covered in more than 500 downed trees, including the 88-year-old “graduation tree,” a magnificent willow oak (pictured above center) that has presided over Berry’s spring commencement in recent decades. Given the severity of this storm system and the historic outbreak of 300 tornadoes it brought to the Southeast, we are thankful that no one on campus was injured and no major buildings were damaged. Our losses are replaceable.
Trees have been the backdrop for thousands of students’ experiences on the Berry campus. Over the course of many decades, they witnessed silly pranks and somber tributes, eminent events and everyday life. They kept us company on lonely walks and provided a canopy for memorable campus events.
Many Berry alumni, students and friends have asked how they can help restore Berry’s majestic trees. The Berry College Tree Restoration Fund will ensure that new trees will be planted to stand in their place. If you would like to contribute to this effort, make a gift online using our online giving form. Choose "Tree Restoration Fund" from the Gift Designation drop down list.
Click on photo for larger image
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To view full details of the events of April 27, 2011 and the resulting clean-up efforts, visit the Around Berry "Back in Business!" page.
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