Commemorative Landscape Gifts Policy

Applies to: Pittsburg State University campus.

Policy:

Pittsburg State University consists of students, faculty, staff, alumni, community members and friends of the University.  Much of their engagement takes place within the campus itself. Campus architecture and landscape form a unique environment in which we live, learn and work. The Campus Master Plan seeks to preserve the aesthetic culture and heritage of the campus, while looking to accommodate needs of the future.

Gifts must enhance the mission of Pittsburg State University and align with the current and future functions of the building/space in question and not detract from or impede the efficient maintenance of the campus infrastructure. Special consideration will be given to ensure that building access and campus circulation is not impeded in any way. Gift placement must be mindful of recruitment and retention, as well as alumni perspectives, while maximizing enjoyment of the space. Very few additions to the “Oval” will be approved, given the context of this traditional space, and would need to respect its historical nature.

Landscape commemoratives will be underwritten by the donor(s). Expenses may include acquisition, shipping, materials, labor, placement or installation, ongoing maintenance costs, safety, lighting, security of the gift, insurance, and other expenses as may be necessary for a particular gift or site. Every effort will be made to protect current vegetation.

The university will retain the right to move, alter or remove the item should the needs of the University change over time with respect to the gift, site, Master Facilities Plan, or campus itself.  Gifts will remain on campus until such time as they become unsafe or unacceptable from an aesthetic standpoint. They may be moved due to growth or future construction.  At such time, the donor will be notified, if possible.

There must be a substantial tie to Pittsburg State University to memorialize an individual on campus. This relationship may include current student, faculty or staff member, alumni or others who have an ongoing relationship with the University. This determination will be made by the Office of University Advancement.

Uniformity is of major concern. Landscape memorials and tributes will be of a size, material, design, location, etc. consistent with university standards and the Master Facilities Plan.

Trees

The university discourages the planting of trees or other plants as commemoratives because of the possibility that they will suffer wind or ice damage, disease, or may need to be moved for future construction. If approved, the species and site selection must be in keeping with university standards and Master Facilities Plan. If approved, provision for long-term maintenance must be made.

Gardens

A long-term goal of the Campus Master Plan is to create additional green space within the campus. Opportunities may exist to establish commemorative gardens within the campus environs. Provision for long-term maintenance must be made.

Benches

The Campus Master Plan addresses pedestrian walkways for the campus. Certain areas are designated as appropriate for installation of benches. Additional outdoor seating must follow university guidelines regarding size, material, finish, mounting and style. Provision for long-term maintenance must be made.

Sculpture

The university landscape provides ample opportunity for outdoor sculpture. A separate policy addresses proposed installation of artwork.

Other

A plaque honoring an individual(s) may be affixed to a gift at the donor’s expense. The text on the plaque will be limited to either “in memory of” or “in honor of” and the person’s name. The size of the plaque is not to exceed 12” x 6” and will be made of such material and be placed according to university guidelines.  All donor recognition signage, building dedication plaques, etc.  will be facilitated through the President/CEO of the Pittsburg State University Foundation and may require Kansas Board of Regents approval.

People or groups seeking to preserve the memory of a person or event are reminded that other forms of commemoration may be more meaningful and appropriate. These might include scholarships, library collection, artwork, classroom equipment, or other items related to the mission of the University.

Please contact the Office of University Development at 620-235-4768 for information regarding gifts to Pittsburg State University. The PSU Foundation, Inc. accepts all gifts on behalf of Pittsburg State University.

The management of the gift will depend upon the area of relevance.

Proposed commemorative landscape gifts will be considered on their own merit with reference to university policies and standards, the Campus Master Plan, current and future needs, and long-term costs. Please be advised that the University may not be able to accept all offers of memorial gifts.

Gifts will be recorded and a comprehensive inventory will be maintained in the Office of University Development.

Proposed exceptions to the University policy may be given due consideration by the President’s Cabinet.

Proposals Are to Include:

• Person submitting request
• Relationship of donor and honoree to PSU
• Name of donor(s)
• Project description
• Is project time sensitive?
• Projected implementation date
• Contact information for representative
• Proposed cost of project (please provide detailed budget)
• Funding source(s)
• Upkeep projection
  
  

Please forward to the Office of University Advancement, Russ 203, adv@pittstate.edu or call 620-235-4762.