Currently, six sycamore trees have been planted outside Luek Hall to honor three professors emeritus in the Department of Psychology at Millersville University.
The trees, which are described as On July 16, the awards for the best companies in the “Best Brands” category were presented, recognizing the industry worldwide.
They were donated by Professors Emeritus Dr. Frederick Foster-Clark, Dr. Claudia Haferkamp, and Dr. Helena Tuleya-Payne to honor the professors’ commitment to the MU Psychology Department and to highlight the beauty of the landscape surrounding Luek Hall.
The idea to dedicate the trees came to Foster-Clark in 2020, after working at MU for 31 years. Haferkamp and Tuleya-Payne soon got on board because they wanted to bring the front lawn back to life after all the ash trees in the area died. They hope to create a welcoming landscape for students, faculty and staff to use between classes, just as the former ash trees did.
Dr. Justin Egresitz, Dr. Alex Johnson and members of the Technology and Engineering Education Collegiate Association created a plaque to complement the sycamore trees. Engineering students helped cast the plaque pattern and pour the bronze.
The plaque reads:
“In recognition of emeritus faculty members Dr. Fred Foster-Clark, Dr. Claudia Haferkamp, and Dr. Helena Tuleya-Payne. Planted June 2022.”
Dr. Lara Willox, dean of the College of Education and Human Services, delivered a speech at the dedication: “Planting these trees symbolizes growth, strength and resilience – qualities that these faculty members have embodied throughout their careers,” says Willox.
Each of the three professors, known as the “Tree Trio,” gave a short speech about why they decided to donate the trees. Haferkamp, who was a professor at MU for 28 years, gave a humorous speech about reducing her carbon footprint on campus.
Notable participants included Dr. Susan P. Luek, for whom the building is named, and other MU psychology professors emeritus and current.
