On March 26 and 27 from noon to noon, Georgia Southern University will celebrate its first “Only for Southern” Giving Day, 24 hours in which our community will come together to support the University and its many programs, initiatives and outreach centers.
The Georgia Southern Botanic Garden is a prime example of what can happen when members of the community decide to contribute to the University and its commitment to education, conservation and community engagement.
Established on the early 20th-century farmstead of Dan and Catherine Bland, alumni of the First District Agricultural School, the Botanic Garden is an extension of the couples’ vision for preserving regional plants and serves as a quiet oasis from the bustle and traffic of Fair Road and Statesboro commerce.
Spanning over 11 acres, the Botanic Garden is a living repository of the Southeastern Coastal Plain's flora, featuring a diverse collection of native and heritage plants, including more than 20 of the state's protected species. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the area, exploring trails, paths and courtyards to experience the beauty of nature.
"The Bland family's generous donation has enabled us to create a space where the community can engage with the natural world in meaningful ways," said Todd Beasley, Ed.D., director of the Georgia Southern Botanic Garden. "Giving Day presents a unique opportunity for Statesboro and Bulloch County to contribute to our mission and message that we need plants for a healthy life and environment."
The Garden's ambitious future plans include the construction of a glass conservatory-style building for year-round events, an experiential teaching kitchen for farm-to-table programs, and the expansion of educational programs designed to create a deeper connection with the environment. Beasley also says the Garden will open on Saturdays beginning March 2025 for even more outreach capabilities. These projects, vital for the Garden's ability to serve as an educational resource and community treasure, underscore the importance of public support on Giving Day.
"Just as the Bland family's vision laid the groundwork for what the Garden has become, today's donors have the power to shape its future,” said Beasley. “Their support is critical in helping us continue our work of connecting people to plants and to each other.”
With the "Only for Southern" Giving Day this week, the Georgia Southern Botanic Garden invites the community to be a part of its ongoing story of growth, learning and connection. By contributing, donors not only honor the legacy of Dan and Catharine Bland but also invest in a future where the Garden remains a vital resource for education, conservation and enjoyment for generations to come.
For more information on how to support the Georgia Southern Botanic Garden on Giving Day, visit Georgia Southern University's Giving Day website.
