
by Jean Paul Laurenceau
At UCCS, one of the most unique and impactful student programs is Campus Connections, a wellness and resiliency-oriented service-learning course designed to foster mentor-mentee relationships between UCCS students and local middle school youth. This program, originally developed by Colorado State University (CSU) and expanded to UCCS, has become a beacon of support and personal development for both students and the community.
One of the standout activities within the Campus Connections program is the Garden of Growth, a project I have had the privilege of creating and facilitating for the past four semesters. The Garden of Growth seamlessly blends the nurturing of plant life with the cultivation of personal growth, offering a hands-on opportunity for students and mentees to learn about resilience, responsibility, and transformation.
A Vision Realized
The Garden of Growth was born from a vision of creating something that would not only enhance the UCCS campus but also embody the core values of the Campus Connections program: empowerment, growth, and support. Four semesters ago, I pitched the idea to Dr. Severn and Mrs. Kodi Enkler, both Professors in the Mentoring Course. As well as Ms. Riho Sakai, the Administrative Assistant III and Executive Assistant to the Dean, who has been a key supporter of the program. Ms. Sakai, an alumni of Campus Connections. They all immediately saw the potential for the project and gave it their full support.
Since its inception, the Garden of Growth has become a beloved fixture in the Kraemer Library, located near the study desk in the circle area with large windows. The collection of plants, which spans over 30 different species, has grown into a vibrant and positive atmosphere on campus. Each plant is carefully cultivated with complete light setups and thoughtful decorations, creating a serene and inspiring environment that has drawn students from all corners of the campus.
“The Garden of Growth” has been one of my favorite spots on campus,” said senior Alexandria Suazo. “It’s not just a peaceful place to study, it symbolizes growth, just like the message I read about on the sign. The plants remind me that growth takes care, time, and the right environment. As I graduate, I really hope it continues to inspire future students to nurture their own personal growth, just like the plants in the garden.”
The Power of Plants
The Garden of Growth serves as more than just an aesthetic display; it is a symbol of personal growth and community support. The plants are tended to by both the mentor coach and the mentees, with each plant representing the growth that occurs throughout the Campus Connections program. The act of nurturing these plants mirrors the process of nurturing one’s own personal development, and the lessons learned from caring for them extend far beyond the garden itself.
Many students have expressed how the Garden of Growth has become a favorite spot for studying. The energy and positivity that the plants emit create a peaceful and productive environment, making it an ideal place for those seeking inspiration or a calming study space. The garden is a constant reminder that growth—whether in plants or in people—is a collaborative effort, and that every step of the journey is supported by a community that cares.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the Garden of Growth is that the plants nurtured each semester are given to the families of the mentees at graduation. These plants act as a reminder of the lessons learned throughout the program and symbolize the ongoing support that extends beyond the classroom. The joy and pride that families express when receiving the plants is a testament to the positive impact that Campus Connections has on both the mentees and their families.
As a volunteer-driven initiative, the Garden of Growth is a labor of love. All plants are cultivated by me, and I have been honored to witness their growth and transformation over the semesters. It has been incredibly rewarding to see the plants thrive, just as the mentees do, and to know that they will continue to serve as a lasting reminder of the program’s impact on the lives of the students involved.
A Legacy of Growth
As I prepare to graduate this semester, I am filled with a sense of fulfillment knowing that the Garden of Growth has become an integral part of the Campus Connections program. My hope is that the project will continue to flourish for years to come, and I would be honored to help guide the next generation of mentors in carrying it forward.
The Garden of Growth is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and the belief that growth—whether personal or botanical—thrives when nurtured with care and dedication. As this project continues to grow, it will undoubtedly remain a symbol of the lasting impact that Campus Connections has on both UCCS students and the community as a large.
“The Garden of Growth is more than just plants—it’s a reflection of the journey every mentee goes through in Campus Connections,” said Kim Burriesce, Graduate Student & Campus Connections Graduate Assistant. “Watching both the garden and the students grow over the semester has been incredible. When the mentees take their plants home at graduation, it’s a reminder that their growth doesn’t stop here—it keeps going, just like the garden will.”
We invite all UCCS students to visit the Garden of Growth in the Kraemer Library and consider contributing to this living symbol of growth. Whether you’re interested in joining Campus Connections as a mentor or donating a plant to the garden, your involvement will help ensure that this project continues to flourish for years to come.