Native plants root new Penn State building in tradition

Landscaping at Penn State’s new Susan Welch Liberal Arts Building highlights Indigenous traditions through the intentional use of native plants. University staff collaborated with anthropology faculty and the Indigenous Faculty Staff Alliance to incorporate plants historically used by the Erie, Haudenosaunee, Lenape, and other nations. The design features six areas, including a Sweetgrass Prairie and the Great Tree of Peace, honoring the Haudenosaunee confederacy. According to project leaders, the effort blends sustainability with cultural recognition.