On April 23, 2026, the Moravian community welcomed a new tree to South Campus: the Carolina Silverbell.
Every year, the Moravian community gathers to celebrate Arbor Day, which is a holiday devoted to planting trees and celebrating the benefits of biodiversity. As the Lehigh Valley, like many parts of the world, experiences the effects of climate change, this tree planting on-campus symbolizes growth and hope for the future.
In front of Clewell Hall, many Environmental Science and Studies students, faculty, and Moravian community members fell in. Walter Fries, manager of Moravian’s Grounds and Athletic Service, facilitated the planting event and ensured that the Carolina Silverbell was properly planted.
The tree selection was made by students Emily Nyce ‘26 and Anderson DeChiaro ‘27. “The Carolina Silverbell stood out to us right away because of its visual appeal, offering high-value spring blooms with hanging white flowers,” Nyce said, speaking to the gathering.
“This tree is also really well-suited for an urban environment. It’s strong against wind and heat, requires relatively low maintenance, and is durable over time, making this a sustainable choice for our city.”
She also mentioned that the Carolina Silverbell would attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are essential to a healthy ecosystem. As such, the “tree represents a balance between aesthetics and environmental impact, and we’re excited to see the positive effect it will have on our community,” she said.
Additionally, DeChiaro recited a poem inspired by the tree: Tiny Dancers by Irish Rose.
Both DeChiaro and Nyce mentioned that they selected a visually appealing tree that wasn’t yet a part of the large Moravian tree inventory.
Following the planting, several members of the Moravian community stopped by to paint Earth Day-themed rocks to spread across both the North and South Campuses.
This rock painting experience brought many Moravian students together as they adorned the rocks with unique Earth Day-inspired designs and participated in a raffle to win an Owala tumbler.
Additionally, the Moravian staff helped with catering an eco-themed ice-cream sundae and specialty beverage table for attendees to cool off. The ice-cream topping names were quite clever as they featured aspects of environmental science, “Pollinator Petals” for maraschino cherries and “Carbon Crunch” for chocolate chips.
The specialty beverage table featured the “Wicked Weed” Punch and refreshing ice water for the hot weather.
Despite rising global temperatures and fossil fuel emissions, there is still hope with an urban forestry plan like the one Moravian has implemented. As the community continues to participate in Arbor Day to plant a diverse tree, campus well-being and climate resilience can proliferate.
