Mariana H. Qubein arboretum and botanical gardens provide sanctuary for students, community: lush plants in the Mariana H. Qubein Arboretum and Botanical Gardens sprawl through campus, but in truth, their roots stretch farther into the greater High Point community.

• Position: Inspiring ENVIRONMENT

The gardens, which include nearly two dozen spaces on campus reserved for special plants and trees, rely on the dedication of volunteers to keep them healthy and thriving. Jon Roethling, curator for the grounds, manages the process while others--student and community volunteers--find their own solace tending to the vines, branches and blooms.

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Kay Maynard, a board of trustee member, and Raylene Fealy, a High Point resident, have donated numerous hours to the gardens. HPU students like Shelby Jones have dug a special place in their heart for the gardens as well.

Jones, a sophomore, already knew a thing or two about gardening. Her grandfather, Wyatt LeFever, was a horticulturist and considered by many to be a "master gardener" in the Piedmont Triad. The philosophy major also saw the gardens as an opportunity to perform some down to earth, gritty work.

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"I enjoyed knowing that I was giving back to something bigger than myself and showing gratitude for all of the opportunities and great experiences that the school provides for me, " says Jones. "It also felt good to be outside and force yourself to do some hard work."

Along with the serenity of nature and beauty of campus, the manual labor can be surprisingly rewarding, adds Fealy.

"Being allowed to...