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Gannon University's Greenhouse celebrates ribbon cutting, blessing

Published: 08/29/2024

Greenhouse

Gannon University, in partnership with the Regional Science Consortium, celebrated the opening of the ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ Greenhouse, located at the corner of West Fourth and Myrtle streets, in a ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremony 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 ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ 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 ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ 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 ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ 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 ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ 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 ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’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.