Donation Creates Friendship Grove

Boilermakers have an enhanced space to socialize thanks to a donation from members of the Lambda Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta class of 1975.

Friendship Grove, located in Pickett Park along West Stadium Drive, provides a shaded location for the Purdue community to enjoy the outdoors and enhance their well-being. The donation funded the planting of several trees, benches, a picnic table and two sets of concrete bags. Included in the tree grove is a mighty oak tree dedicated to Purdue President Mitch Daniels and his service to the University. Friendship Grove was dedicated during a ceremony on October 14.

The dedication of Friendship Grove reads, “This grove is dedicated to the enduring friendships formed during our years at Purdue University.”

“As the added trees grow, they will create a canopy over the running path to make it feel like you are running through Friendship Grove as well,” says Mike Warren, director of Purdue Recreation & Wellness.

Friendship Grove complements features of Pickett Park including sculptures, event space, an outdoor classroom and gathering area, fitness equipment and easy access to Purdue Recreation & Wellness’ playing fields. Pickett Park is available for reservation to groups and Purdue organizations.

Pickett Park is named for the late Dean Pickett, a student at Purdue who passed away in July 1969 in Yosemite Park when a ledge he was standing on gave way. His parents, Robert and Margaret Pickett, established the park in 1971 to memorialize their son and his love of the outdoors.