Colleagues

With the pending arrival of Professor David Mabberley on February 14, I wish to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation for the outstanding performance Professor John Wott has provided while serving as Acting Director of the Center for Urban Horticulture and Director of the Washington Park Arboretum.

John was one of the key University players responsible for the development of the Arboretum's Master Plan and its subsequent implementation. While Director, he spent countless hours in meetings and discussions with the City, the Arboretum Foundation, community and professional groups, and concerned citizens. Throughout the entire process, his loyalty to the ideals for the Arboretum and University never wavered. For this, we all owe him a debt of gratitude.

As Acting Director of CUH, John was responsible for overseeing the final phase of the construction and subsequent dedication of the new Merrill Hall. It is to his credit that our recent ceremonies at Merrill Hall were such a success. While providing oversight for the above, John continued his normal teaching and research responsibilities at the Center and Arboretum.

I am confident that John's many friends and colleagues wish him well as he now returns to his full time professorial duties in the College. To provide continuity, he will remain on both the Arboretum and Botanical Garden Committee and the Arboretum Master Plan Implementation Group.

As mentioned above, Dr David Mabberley will arrive on campus February 14 to assume his role as Professor and Director of the Center for Urban Horticulture and the Washington Park Arboretum. The College will host a reception in his honor to welcome him to the University and College. An announcement will be forthcoming.

B. Bruce Bare, Dean