Stony Brook University leaders, students, and community members planted a magnolia tree on the Academic Mall on April 15 to symbolize growth and the start of a new chapter for the university. The ceremony coincided with the Shirley Strum Kenny Arts Festival and was part of the inauguration events for President Andrea Goldsmith.
The event brought together a large crowd on campus, combining festive activities from the arts festival with a quieter moment focused on unity and tradition. President Goldsmith described the planting as both a personal milestone and an act that links her presidency to former president Shirley Strum Kenny’s legacy.
“Standing side by side with you to plant a magnolia together, we are continuing President Kenny’s vision to make our campus more beautiful,” Goldsmith said.
Goldsmith also spoke about how she sees her tenure at Stony Brook reflected in the enduring nature of the newly planted tree. “To me, this tree represents the growth, legacy and enduring impact that we create everyday on our campus,” she said. “I am certain as I pass this spectacular tree in the months and years ahead, I will think of this day, and all of us together, and the legacy and impact at the heart of this exceptional university and its people.”
The choice of a magnolia holds special meaning for Stony Brook University. Former president Shirley Strum Kenny was known for her appreciation of magnolias during her time leading Stony Brook from 1994 to 2009. Aneil Persaud, assistant director of Student Affairs Events and Initiatives, said that planting a tree marks transition: “Planting a tree really shows the start of something,” Persaud said. “President Goldsmith began her term a year ago, but she’s already done so much for us. It really shows something new on campus. It feels like a breath of fresh air.”
Persaud added that there is an award named after Kenny—the Shirley Strum Kenny Steel Magnolia Award—which recognizes individuals who show steadfastness within Stony Brook’s community.
As soil was placed around its base during the ceremony, attendees noted that this new addition will serve as an ongoing reminder not only of President Goldsmith’s inauguration but also as an emblem reflecting Stony Brook University’s values.
