By Mia Hairston, CETL Program Coordinator
A celebration was in order last month at the University Greenhouse as Fr. Charles Oduke blessed the completion of a project rooted in vision, collaboration, and patience. Funded by the CETL Fire Grant based on a proposal written by Dr. Anne-Marie Kosi-Kupe, the greenhouse initiative has navigated its share of challenges from finding the perfect location, enlisting volunteers, and properly assembling the framework. Despite its rocky start, today the greenhouse can be located in the Life Sciences courtyard (adjacent to Parking Lot G) and stands as a vibrant new space for learning and growth.
Special recognition to members of the CETL, TENN, and University students for cleaning the courtyard and laying the brick foundation. Over the summer, the help of architecture students and a few dedicated volunteers helped to finalize the structure. The greenhouse is already being put to great use by biology students for hands-on exploration and research, thanks to Dr. Kosi-Kupe.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to launch a University Greenhouse Club and for collaboration with TENN (Titan Equity Nourish Network), our very own University food justice program. Both call for students, faculty, and staff to engage with the greenhouse to encourage sustainability, learn agricultural best practices, and support community initiatives.
If you’re interested in contributing to the Greenhouse or collaborating on future projects, please contact Dr. Kosi-Kupe at kosikuan@udmercy.edu.