UDC Receives 40 Cherry Trees in Centennial Celebration

WASHINGTON, April 4, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The University of the District of Columbia is planting 40 cherry trees, gifts from the National Cherry Blossom Festival, in commemoration of the Centennial Celebration of the original gift of cherry trees from the nation of Japan. University President Allen L. Sessoms called the partnership between the Festival and the University "natural and significant" as the University continues its transformation into a world class provider of quality public higher education.

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"These beautiful trees are the perfect touch as we complete the renovation of the interior plaza deck of the University," said Dr. Sessoms. "Partnering with the (National Cherry Blossom) Festival gives us a stage upon which to demonstrate the University's commitment to sustainable construction while giving our students and our neighborhood a beautiful campus!"

On April 27th, Mayor Vincent C. Gray will join the Ambassador of Japan Ichiro Fujisaki, President of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Diana Mayhew, members of the City Council and others in celebrating the partnership. Many of the trees have already been planted in the interior courtyard, including 10 "legacy" trees, those spliced from the original 1912 gift. Dr. Sessoms said it was an "honor to have those beautiful, historic trees on our campus, signifying continued growth and international friendships."

WHAT: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony / Ceremonial Tree Planting
WHERE: University of the District of Columbia – 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW
WHEN: Friday, April 27, 2012 – 12 Noon

As the only urban land-grant institution in the United States, the University of the District of Columbia (www.udc.edu) supports a broad mission of education, research and community service across all member colleges and schools, which include the Community College, College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences, College Arts and Sciences, School of Business and Public Administration, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and David A. Clarke School of Law.

The University of the District of Columbia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a full version of the University's EO Policy Statement, please visit:  http://www.udc.edu/equal_opportunity.

The University of the District of Columbia is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education - 3624 Market Street - Philadelphia, PA 19104 - (267) 284–5000

CONTACT: Alan Etter (202) 345-6371

SOURCE University of the District of Columbia