Northeast College Creates Path for Greener, More Compassionate Future with New Campus Memorial Grove

Seneca Falls, N.Y. — Northeast College of Health Sciences is proud to announce the expansion of its long-term afforestation efforts with the dedication of a new Memorial Grove, marking a profound investment in both environmental and community well-being.

Northeast College Creates Healing Space with Nature Sanctuary

Situated on the College's Seneca Falls campus, the Memorial Grove is part of the College’s on-going afforestation project, which serves as a growing model of ecological restoration. Established to honor the legacies of those who have impacted our lives and are no longer with us, the Northeast College Memorial Grove is intended to be a space for reflection.

The College’s Memorial Grove welcomes the community with scenic walking paths and trails that lead through a living tribute of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by Northeast’s original Walkway of Honor bricks—each once engraved to commemorate a donor’s gift and honor a loved one or milestone. These bricks now form a gateway that celebrates enduring legacies and the spirit of giving.

Beyond the entrance, the grove’s winding trails invite peaceful strolls and quiet reflection in a natural sanctuary. “These pathways and plants are the College’s gift to the community,” said Northeast College President Dr. Michael Mestan. “Northeast College’s Memorial Grove symbolizes not just remembrance but renewal, growth and a strong commitment to the long-term health of our community and environment.”

Northeast College Partners with Local Expert for Environmental Transformation

Dedicated to being good neighbors and providing spaces that encourage meaningful experiences for both the College and broader community, Northeast hopes the Memorial Groves’ winding path offers a place for visitors to experience the tranquil beauty of nature. Jim Engel, owner of White Oak Nursery in Canandaigua, N.Y., has helped the College realize its vision and since 2021 has propagated and planted the many different trees, plants and wildflowers making up the new afforested area.

Northeast College History of Developing Campus Grounds, Investing in Planet

Even before the afforestation project and the Memorial Grove, the College’s 2018 Grow Zone initiative dedicated 45 additional acres of land to the natural growth of native flora and fauna. In addition to enhancing biodiversity, the College's efforts have drastically reduced the College’s carbon footprint, saving more than 1,000 gallons of fuel annually and eliminating the need for over 14 hours of weekly mowing.

“As local and global citizens, we must be good stewards,” said Dr. Mestan. “Our proactive steps — from afforestation to the new memorial and walking spaces — are shaping a more sustainable, more compassionate world.”