Gannon University, in partnership with the Regional Science Consortium, celebrated the opening of the Gannon Greenhouse, located at the corner of West Fourth and Myrtle Streets, in a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 29.
The environmentally controlled, 21-foot by 72-foot greenhouse is a key milestone for producing native plants for wetland and dune restoration at Presque Isle State Park, vegetable plants for the Gannon Goodwill Gardens, pollinator plants to support the Regional Science Consortium's
Pollinator Pathway by Go Native Erie! and much more. Gannon University faculty, students, and members of the RSC will operate the greenhouse year-round. This greenhouse will also provide not only research opportunities but a hands-on learning space for Gannon students and community members.
The blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony began at 1:30 p.m. on the site of the greenhouse.
"We are excited to open the doors of our new greenhouse to the Gannon community and the public," said Sarah Ewing, Ph.D., provost and vice president for student experience. "This facility will not only enhance our academic offerings but also serve as a testament to our dedication to fostering a sustainable future through education and community partnership."
"We are excited to open the Gannon Greenhouse as a key part of our environmental restoration and education efforts," said Sam Mason, Ph.D., director of Project NePTWNE. "The greenhouse will provide our students and faculty with unique opportunities to explore sustainable practices and collaborate with the local community to address environmental challenges. This facility embodies our dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of our natural world and creating a sustainable future."
Greenhouse construction is phase three of six of Gannon's Project NePTWNE, short for Nano & Polymer Technology for Water and Neural-networks in Erie, a sustainability program that addresses water quality, climate change, economic development and the overall quality of life in Erie.
For more information:
Gannon University
www.gannon.edu