SCRANTON, PA- January 21, 2002

For the second consecutive year, the Overlook Estate Foundation has awarded Marywood University a grant to fund improvements at the Mary wood University Arboretum.

A portion of the $3,150 grant will be used to provide additional signage to identify the various trees and shrubbery located throughout the campus. The balance will fund benches that will be place throughout the 115-acre Arboretum. The benches will provide an opportunity for rest as well as advantageous points to study the scenery.

The initial grant to Marywood University provided for the implementation of the Arboretum Enhancement Program. The program, under the guidance of the Arboretum Committee, was used to establish a self-guided walking tour of the Arboretum. Additionally, two "You Are Here" stations were erected, a home Web page, arboretum@es.marywood.edu, was designed, tree and shrub signage was placed and tour pamphlets were developed. In September 2001, the "Celebrating Growth" program was held. Guest speaker, Paul Epsom of Greystone Gardens, Dalton, highlighted various species of trees and shrubs throughout the campus. Guided tours of the Arboretum followed.

Marywood University was officially named an arboretum in 1997 and is a current member of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta (AABGA).

The benches and additional signage are expected to be in place around campus by Fall 2002.