Peace Garden

The idea to incorporate a Peace Garden into the landscaping near the front of the campus grew out of a student and staff response to the tragedies on Sept. 11. Students and staff suggested designating an outdoor space for reflection and remembrance, a space that is unique to all the campus.

A small group met and assembled a list of natural elements that would contribute to the serenity and reflection associated with a Peace Garden. Water, shelter, stone, fragrances and dappled light are some of the elements the garden encompasses. Charles Mangum, landscape architect, developed the design that draws on all the elements.

Cornerstone landscape elements were placed and dedicated Sept. 11 of 2002. At the same dedication ceremony, the college rededicated its name, “Chemeketa,” which means “a place of peace.”

No college funds were used to build the Peace Garden, so the entire cost for the garden, $15,000, was raised through donations.

You may see a more detailed map of the garden here.

Updated October 2006 by the College Advancement Department.