Mount Vernon continues to shine as a community dedicated to sustainability and beautification, proudly celebrating its 33rd Tree City USA designation and a Growth Award on May 6.
These honors, presented by the Arbor Day Foundation, recognize the city’s comprehensive tree management program, which oversees more than 5,000 street trees and anticipates 400 additional plantings this year. Guided by the Shade Tree & Beautification Committee and supported by municipal staff, the initiative reflects a long-standing commitment to enhancing quality of life through environmental stewardship.
Tree City USA, established in 1976, is a national program designed to raise awareness of the value of community trees, set foundational standards for urban forestry, and celebrate local improvement. Communities of all sizes—from small towns to major cities—have earned this designation, demonstrating that tree stewardship is both universal and essential. Mount Vernon’s continued recognition underscores its place among municipalities that prioritize sustainability and livability. The Growth Award further distinguishes the city by acknowledging innovation and expansion in forestry practices, highlighting Mount Vernon’s proactive vision for a greener future.
That same spirit of environmental care and community pride was echoed on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University in April. As part of its annual Blue Green Day festivities, MVNU marked Arbor Day with two special tree plantings in the Quad. Blue Green Day is a cherished tradition held each April, where students, faculty, and staff unite to landscape and prepare the grounds for Commencement.
The ceremony began with the planting of the Ethan Adkins Memorial Tree, a Red Oak dedicated in memory of Ethan, the son of Doug and Jennifer Adkins. Ethan, a 2024 Granville High School graduate, lost his life in a July 2024 automobile accident, only weeks before he was set to begin his studies at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. He had planned to pursue a degree in Biology and was eagerly anticipating his next chapter at the university. Members of the Adkins family attended the ceremony, joining the campus community in honoring Ethan’s life and legacy.
The second planting established a future ceremonial campus Christmas tree, symbolizing continuity and celebration for generations to come. Together, these efforts—both in the city and at MVNU—demonstrate how Mount Vernon embraces the values of remembrance, renewal, and environmental stewardship, weaving them into the fabric of community life.
Doug and Jennifer Adkins break ground during a memorial tree planting honoring their son, Ethan. | MVNU
Dr. James Brown serves as the Chair of the Shade Tree and Beautification Commission. The commission's purpose is "to provide and protect the shade tree landscape for the city as well as promote beautification projects throughout the city," according to the commission's webpage.
