East Georgia State College (EGSC), in partnership with the Magnolia Midlands Georgia Youth Science & Technology Center (MMGYSTC) and the Georgia Forestry Commission, is pleased to invite the community to the upcoming “Moon Tree Party,” a celebration of science and nature at the Sudie A. Fulford Community Learning Center. This free event will be held on the East Georgia State College Swainsboro campus at 131 College Circle, Swainsboro, is open to the public, and will take place on Tuesday, September 10, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The Moon Tree Party features a range of activities designed to inspire and educate participants of all ages, including hands-on STEM workshops and experiments that inspire curiosity and innovation, immersive planetarium shows that explore the wonders of the universe, and informative “Tree Talk” sessions with experts from the Georgia Forestry Commission. The highlight of the event is the opportunity to see the NASA Moon Tree up close and learn about its remarkable journey.

“We are thrilled to be able to share this historic moment with the community,” said Erin Youmans, regional coordinator for Magnolia Midlands GYSTC. “Planting the Moon Tree at EGSC provides the surrounding community with a unique opportunity to observe and learn from this living piece of space history for generations to come.”

A variety of different tree species, including sycamores, sweetgums, Douglas firs, swamp pines and giant sequoias, have been flown around the moon. East Georgia State College received a swamp pine to care for future generations. This special selection underscores the college’s commitment to promoting educational opportunities and environmental stewardship.

The tree was planted at the Fulford Center on May 7, 2024. Representatives from the Georgia Forestry Commission, Magnolia Midlands GYSTC, EGSC Tree Campus Committee, as well as faculty, staff and community members attended the planting ceremony.

The Moon Tree Party is free and open to the public. The EGSC welcomes the public to participate in this unique celebration of science, nature and space exploration.

About East Georgia State College: East Georgia State College is committed to providing affordable access to higher education, fostering a culture of academic excellence, and preparing students for success in a global society. The Sudie A. Fulford Center at EGSC serves as a hub for educational outreach and community engagement.

About Magnolia Midlands GYSTC: Opened in 1995, Magnolia Midlands Georgia Youth Science & Technology Center is a regional center for GYSTC, Inc., a private, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to increasing interest and enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among elementary and middle school teachers, students and parents in typically underserved areas of the state. Magnolia Midlands GYSTC is located on the campus of East Georgia State College. Among the many educational programs offered are the STARLAB Planetarium and Family Math and Science Nights.