New Life at the Shaker Arboretum

In dedicating the Class of 1970 Arboretum and the Cosmo DiBiasio Amphitheater, Head of School Patrick Gallagher shared, “Not long after the Shaker campus was established in 1925, the arboretum was created in the oldest standing woodland in Shaker Heights. The original purpose was to enable US students interested in nature to immerse themselves in the natural world and engage with many natural specimens. Ninety trees were planted, and the trees, shrubs, and flowers were identified and tagged. In the winter, the arboretum became a bird sanctuary. For decades, the arboretum was used by students and teachers for study, and, of course, play.”

Middle School science teacher and arboretum curator Erick Carlson, who spoke at the dedication ceremony, and Lower School science teacher Hans Rydquist were instrumental in configuring the space so as to have the maximum impact on our boys. The arboretum has already hosted school activities including science labs, mindfulness meditations, French dialogues, drama performances, and even Dr. Carlson’s chickens! 

This project was inspired by the vision and philanthropy of Tom Tormey ’70 with the advice and support of the University School class of 1970.