31 March 2025 4 minute read
Lesha Baldwin (Sustainability Coordinator at Spelman College): Let’s kick things off with a fun one! If Spelman's trees could talk, what stories do you think they would tell about campus life?
Nazia Mojib: Oh, they’d have so many stories to share! I imagine they'd whisper tales of students studying beneath their shade, laughter echoing through their leaves, quiet moments of reflection, and the changing seasons reflected in their branches. They’d talk about the growth and resilience of Spelman and the enduring spirit of our community.
Jessica Terrien Dunn: I think the trees would share the history of Spelman College. They’d tell stories of Spelmanites walking to class through the decades, gathering for Market Friday or Parents' Weekend. Through their stories, we’d see the connection between Spelmanites today and those who came before them.
Nicole Johnston: The trees would share the collective energy of Spelman’s community – of strong women, celebrations, and moments of unity. They'd reflect the vibrant atmosphere of our campus and the deep connection we have to each other and the environment.
Iesha Baldwin: Are we, the current Spelman community, aware of the trees around us? Do you think most of us experience “plant blindness,” where we overlook the plants around us?
Jessica Terrien Dunn: Yes, I think many of us suffer from “plant blindness.” I was surprised to learn how many trees we actually have on campus—over 800! Before this project, I would’ve guessed it was a much smaller number. I simply didn’t notice them.
Nazia Mojib: Exactly! Plant blindness is something we’re working to address. The Spelman Arboretum is helping us reconnect with the plants around us and understand their importance. It’s about creating awareness and fostering a deeper appreciation for the plants that are such a crucial part of our ecosystem.
Iesha Baldwin: If you had to name a tree on campus after a historical figure or Spelman icon, who would it be and why?
Janine Baldwin (Student working on the project): I’d name a tree after Dr. Johnetta B. Cole, Spelman’s first Black woman president. Like a strong tree, she represented resilience, growth, and deep roots in education and leadership. I could see a magnificent oak or magnolia in her honor, standing tall with wisdom and strength.
Iesha Baldwin: What’s the most surprising or interesting thing you’ve learned while mapping Spelman's trees?
Nazia Mojib: I was amazed at the age of some of our trees. We even have a champion tree! The diversity in species is incredible, and it’s fascinating to see how each tree contributes to our campus ecosystem in its unique way.
Janine Baldwin: For me, it was the sheer number of trees on campus. I never realized how many trees we have! It was eye-opening to see the diversity and understand how each tree contributes in its own special way—from providing shade to supporting pollinators and playing a role in carbon sequestration.
Iesha Baldwin: Now, let’s dive into the science! How does mapping Spelman's trees contribute to understanding the campus ecosystem and biodiversity?
Nazia Mojib: Mapping provides us with a baseline inventory of the tree population, allowing us to study species diversity, tree health, and the overall contribution of trees to the campus ecosystem. This data helps guide conservation efforts and promotes biodiversity. Plus, it brings the community together, encouraging everyone to engage with the natural world around us.
Nicole Johnston: I agree. By mapping the trees, we can identify how different species thrive in different parts of campus. This data helps us understand how trees contribute to the overall biodiversity and how we can preserve and nurture this environment for years to come.
Iesha Baldwin: What role do trees play in carbon sequestration, and how might this project help measure Spelman's environmental impact?
Nazia Mojib: Trees play a huge role in carbon sequestration. They absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, which helps mitigate climate change. The tree mapping project gives us valuable data on tree size, species, and age, allowing us to estimate how much carbon is being sequestered by Spelman’s trees. This will help us measure our campus’s carbon footprint and identify ways to reduce it.
Janine Baldwin: It’s interesting to think about how environmental factors, like the proximity to buildings, can influence carbon sequestration. Factors like soil quality, tree age, and growth rates all play a role in how much carbon is stored. The mapping project gives us the data to better understand this impact.
Iesha Baldwin: How can tree mapping be used as a tool for climate education and sustainability initiatives on campus?
Nazia Mojib: Tree mapping is an incredible educational tool. It can be integrated into the curriculum, giving students hands-on experience in data collection and analysis related to climate change. The data can also be used to drive sustainability initiatives, such as planting more trees or managing our existing trees for optimal carbon sequestration. Plus, with QR codes linked to the tree map, we can educate the community about the importance of urban forests and their role in mitigating climate change.
Nicole Johnston: Exactly! It’s a fantastic tool for engaging students and the wider community in climate education. By understanding how trees contribute to sustainability, we can make informed decisions about our green spaces and conservation efforts.
Iesha Baldwin: Lastly, why does the Spelman Arboretum matter?
Nazia Mojib: The Spelman Arboretum fosters community between faculty, staff, and students. It creates opportunities for science education and research outside of the traditional classroom and supports student success by providing opportunities for mentorship and wellness through outdoor experiences. It’s a space for collaboration and a living example of sustainability.
Janine Baldwin: And it brings joy! The Arboretum allows us to connect with nature and celebrate the beauty and importance of trees on campus. Plus, it’s a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, enriching the learning experience for everyone involved.
Iesha Baldwin: I couldn’t agree more! Through the Arboretum, we’re creating a lasting legacy of sustainability, community engagement, and environmental stewardship at Spelman College. It’s exciting to see the future unfold!
Spelman’s Tree Campus Inventory Research Team
Students:
Maddison Gardner - Psychology
Nakylia Green - Biology
Raihanna Terrell - Biology
Alexis Bussey - Environmental Science
Janine Baldwin – Biology
Staff:
Michael Walsh
Kevin Mowris
Faculty:
Naiza Mojib
Jessica Terrien Dunn
Jeremy Harris
Nicole Johnston