Albany Technical College to Plant Native Fringe Tree As part of 65th Anniversary Celebration
Tuesday, April 28th, 2026
Albany Technical College will continue its 65th anniversary celebration with a ceremonial tree planting on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. behind the Kirkland Administration Building on the college’s campus. The tree, a fringe tree, or Chionanthus virginicus, was provided by the Albany Tech Foundation as part of the college’s ongoing tradition of annual tree planting and campus beautification.
The annual planting reflects Albany Technical College’s commitment to stewardship, sustainability, and the enhancement of its campus environment. It also aligns with the spirit of Arbor Day season, when communities across the nation are encouraged to plant and care for trees as a lasting investment in healthier, more resilient public spaces.
This year’s tree is a Georgia native known for its delicate white blooms and ornamental beauty. Also called grancy graybeard or old man’s beard, the fringe tree is well suited for Southern landscapes and contributes to native plant diversity while adding seasonal interest to the campus.
Trees provide broad community benefits by helping improve air quality, reduce heat, support stormwater management, and strengthen local ecosystems. Planting native trees can also help preserve the natural character of Georgia landscapes while creating more attractive and welcoming spaces.
Nicholas Brezel, Urban Forester and Community Forester with the Georgia Forestry Commission, will serve as guest speaker for the event. Brezel specializing in providing technical assistance to grant recipients across the state, as well as Georgia’s Southwestern regional forester. He is an ISA Certified Arborist and has a background as a municipal arborist, both in enforcement of ordinances from Town Hall as well as the care, preservation, and removal of municipally owned trees as a bucket truck operator.
"Planting a tree during our 65th anniversary celebration is a meaningful way to honor both our history and our future," said Dr. Emmett Griswold, president of Albany Technical College. "This tradition reflects growth, strength, and our continued investment in creating a campus environment that serves students, employees, and the community for generations to come."
"Trees matter because they improve the places where people live, learn, and work," said Brezel. "Planting the right tree in the right place is one of the simplest ways to invest in the long-term health and beauty of a community."
The Albany Tech Foundation’s support of this year’s tree planting adds to the significance of the occasion as the college marks 65 years of service to Southwest Georgia. The ceremony will serve as both a celebration of the college’s history and a visible reminder of its continued growth and commitment to the future.
