The College of Nursing devised an innovative approach to repurpose the vibrant flowers utilized during the Spring Commencement. Professor Ann Lambert proposed this initiative to recycle the flowers from graduation ceremonies. This considerate program significantly impacts numerous lives, delivering joy to residents in retirement homes, nursing facilities, and hospitals.
This year marks the second annual Flowers for Friends, a program organized by AUCON. "The initiative requires numerous volunteers to assist with preparing vases, arranging flowers, and delivering them to our partner agencies. Faculty and staff work during the week before the delivery date to coordinate with healthcare agencies and prepare supplies. Students and faculty participate in collecting all the flowers from graduation, bringing them to the school, and rearranging them into smaller bouquets. It is an enjoyable experience, and we always welcome additional help to expedite the process."
This year, a total of 300 vases were delivered to hospitals and nursing homes by ten nursing students. Flowers were delivered locally to East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC), Dadeville Healthcare and the Lafayette Senior Center. Nursing students traveling home for the summer transported flowers to Montgomery, Birmingham, Mobile, and Pensacola hospitals.
Repurposing flowers from graduation ceremonies to brighten the lives of residents in nursing homes and hospitals is a heartwarming practice. Studies show that flowers can have a positive impact on emotional well-being, and these gestures can help to create a sense of joy and connection for residents. “Donating these flowers is a meaningful way for us to give back to our community and contribute to a positive impact on the lives of others,” added Lambert.
This sustainable activity besides reducing floral waste, also sends a little joy to brighten their day. By giving these blooms a second life, the College of Nursing is fostering a culture of sustainability while enriching the lives of others.
“Every semester, we work with our vendor, Southern Posies, to thoughtfully select our commencement flowers to reflect the colors of our academic colleges,” Director of Academic Events Tracey Newell said. “While we’re proud that the floral arrangements make a striking impression during our ceremonies, their impact is even more meaningful when their beauty is shared with members of our community.”
“The Flowers for Friends project not only lifts the spirits of folks around the state in hospitals, nursing homes and retirement communities, it’s also a way of building community within the College,” said Dean Gregg Newschwander. “Bringing faculty, staff, and students together to gather, cut, arrange, and deliver the flowers is a great team building exercise. We’re very fortunate to have the support of the Provost’s office in the effort as well. At a time when many things seem disposable, we’re be able to bring some joy to people in the community simply by reusing the flowers from graduation that would otherwise have been put in the trash. We look forward to continuing the effort following commencements in the future.”
