In October, a dedication ceremony was held for Sarah’s Glen, a beautifully designed garden with a signature oval lawn, pavilion and labyrinth honoring the late Sarah Brandt, daughter of Shenandoah University Trustee William Brandt and his wife, Elaine. Sarah’s Glen spans roughly 2.5 acres of green space between Gregory Hall, Ruebush Hall and Abrams Creek. Designed by Van Yahres & Associates, it serves as a performance venue, an outdoor classroom, an events location, a gathering spot and a memorial garden. Colorado blue spruce trees and native shrubs, grasses and perennials beautify the gardens, while a dry stream bed serves to channel rainwater to Abrams Creek as part of the university’s stormwater management initiative. “Sarah’s Glen is a place where students can meditate and perform, learn and grow, play and paint and take photographs,” said President Tracy Fitzsimmons. “It’s also a space I hope community members feel they can enjoy as well as students.”
Construction
Development of Sarah’s Glen began in spring 2012, with much of the construction executed throughout the summer months and completed by early November. The university is introducing new plants to the gardens this spring.
Labyrinth
The labyrinth at Shenandoah University offers individuals the opportunity for quiet reflection and spiritual meditation. Found in many cultures for more than 4,000 years, the labyrinth design symbolizes a long, difficult journey that must be taken to reach a goal. It is not a maze, for although it is winding, there is only one path to take. With each step, one realizes the journey is the destination.