The Collegian

Issue date: 2/14/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Jan Wanek

Media Credit: Courtesy of Rich Pewe

Steps to redesign and restore the east lawn are scheduled to begin spring 2008, initiating change from mud to grass, trees and new smells, Vice President of Administration Rich Péwé said last week.

The April 15 start date falls among other changes the school began this year, including completing construction on the Grewcock Student Union and Strosacker Science Center.


"It was a very large, wide, walk that just didn't drain properly," Péwé said of the old east lawn. "So hopefully we can resolve all those issues. If we're done in April and we can get things planted, then maybe by commencement it'll look pretty good."

Work on the face of Strosacker along with the finishing touches on the east lawn adds to about $125,000, Péwé said.

When prospective students walk through the finished lawn, they will think a few specific things, said Stephen Rosselet '69, Hillsdale's campus landscape designer.

"Successful. When they see it, they'll know it is right. It's timeless. It's classic."

Rosselet hand draws each design, considering shade, smell and visual luster, he said.

"I used mostly things that were native to Michigan, with exception to the magnolias and those boxwoods," he said. "This campus and the buildings are quite classic and aristocratic, they really are, and the plants were chosen to reflect that."

Freshman Emily Wagner raises her eyebrows at an aristocratic lawn.

"I'm thinking more hippy hangout, but that's just me," Wagner said. "Cool and laid back."

Others think themes like classic aristocracy and timelessness will appeal to prospective students and parents.

"In general, the type of students who go here will be persuaded by that scenery," said freshman Dave Wasmer.

Whether people prefer lofty themes or not, students like freshman Robert Burns anticipate completion.

"I just want a nice area to cross between the EAR and student union," Burns said.

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