Flowering Crabapple Marks Arbor Day Tradition at SIC

Southeastern Illinois College and the Eldorado Garden Study Club continued their long-standing Arbor Day tradition this week with the planting of a flowering crabapple tree at the college’s south entrance.

The tree replaces one that was damaged during recent storms, offering a fresh start while continuing the club’s annual commitment to campus beautification.

“We are grateful for the Eldorado Garden Study Club and their continued partnership with SIC,” said Dr. Kyla Burford, Executive Dean of Student Services. “Their support over the years has made a lasting difference on our campus, and this year’s tree is a thoughtful way to restore a space that needed it.”

This marks the 19th year the Eldorado Garden Study Club has donated a tree to SIC in recognition of Arbor Day. While many of those trees form a growing grove on campus, this year’s planting serves as a reminder that stewardship also includes caring for and renewing what is already here.

“Arbor Day is about more than planting new trees—it’s also about maintaining and protecting the ones we have,” said Dana Keating, President of the Eldorado Garden Study Club. “We were glad to help replace a tree that was lost and continue this tradition with SIC. It’s meaningful to see these plantings continue to benefit the campus over time.”

Arbor Day, first celebrated in 1872, encourages communities to plant and care for trees while promoting long-term environmental stewardship. Trees play a vital role in improving air quality, conserving natural resources and enhancing the spaces where people live and learn.

About the Eldorado Garden Study Club
Founded in 1946, the Eldorado Garden Study Club has 44 members and is affiliated with the Central Region of the National Garden Clubs, Inc., and the District VII Region of The Garden Clubs of Illinois. The club has supported Southeastern Illinois College through annual Arbor Day tree donations for nearly two decades.

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