Your generosity takes root — creating places to gather, reflect, and belong. Your bicentennial gift honors our past and creates a living tribute for generations to come.
In recognition of 200 years of higher education at Fredonia, the Fredonia College Foundation is commemorating this milestone by installing a limited number of trees and benches throughout campus. Donors have the opportunity to celebrate a special occasion or create a permanent tribute to a family member, friend, or colleague with a gift of a bicentennial tree or bench. Your donation directly supports the Bicentennial Scholarship Fund.
Bicentennial trees
With a minimum gift of $1,826, donors may choose from the following trees native to the area:
- FLOWERING Crabapple
- Cherry DECIDUOUS
- American Basswood
- River Birch
- Red Maple
- EVERGREEN White Pine
- Blue Spruce.
A small 5" x10" commemorative plaque will be placed at the base of the tree. At the time of planting, beginning in the fall of 2026, trees will be approximately five feet tall, depending upon species
Bicentennial benches
With a minimum gift of $5,000, a black Polywood Cottage Bench will include a 2" x10" plaque on the bench.
Plaques
A plaque to acknowledge the gift and the donor will be placed at the base of the tree; and on the back of bench. A mock-up of the exact wording will be sent to the donor(s) for approval. THE PLAQUE WILL READ:– Common and Botanical tree names (for trees only)– One line beginning with “In memory of or in honor of (name)”, or “To commemorate – (name)”, or In celebration of (name)”– One line beginning with “Donated by (name)
Location options
There are many locations for trees and benches across the Fredonia campus. Click (hold) and drag on the map to move around to see some of the options available.
Site selection
Bicentennial trees and benches will be located throughout campus at the recommendation of the University’s Facilities Services in conjunction with the landscaping plan.
Tree species will be considered when selecting the final site. Donors may select a location for a tree or bench, with the understanding that environmental factors may limit certain sites.
The Foundation will work with the donor to identify a location that best aligns with the donor's intent and the campus landscape plan. Bicentennial trees and benches will be maintained for their useful life. If a tree or bench needs to be removed for any reason, it will be replaced or relocated at no cost to the donor
For more information on donating a Bicentennial tree or bench, email the Foundation office or call 716-673-3321.