Growing in the Role: Reflections of a Sustainable Campus Garden Coordinator

As my time with Sustainable Campus and the Seminole Organic Garden comes to an end, I want to share my reflection on the past several years I’ve spent in the garden. 

In 2021, I had the pleasure of being introduced to the garden through my best friend and former garden coordinator, Kate Lovett. If not for her, I would not have been given the chance to learn, grow, and inspire others in the space for years to come. 

Most of everything I learned outside I owe to Kate. We met working at a local plant nursery and grew close over time, bonding over our love of houseplants. At first, I was hesitant about gardening outside; but over time, I began to understand and appreciate the value of growing fruits, flowers, and native plants outdoors. Thus, when Kate brought me to the garden, a new array of experiences presented themselves to me which I could not help but partake in. 

During this time, Kate taught me patience and how to trust the process. At the garden, I first grew an assortment of edible flowers; followed by beautiful heirloom tomatoes and ornamental peppers. I remember how rewarding it was to watch life sprout from unbelievably tiny seeds. I also remember how terribly hot it was and how frustrating gardening is when you have no clue what you’re doing. Nonetheless, I kept planting and learning from my mistakes, which ultimately led to my success and growth as a gardener. 

This is all to say that it feels like we spent every morning covered in dirt and sunshine. The memories I hold of us spending countless hours in the garden are innumerable; and I know they will remain strong in my mind no matter how far away I go or how much time passes. 

Once Kate graduated from FSU, Sustainable Campus was in need of a new coordinator to take her place. With a love for the space and enthusiasm for the role, it was the perfect opportunity for me to step in. I followed in Kate’s footsteps and filled the space she would leave behind; beginning my position as Sustainable Campus’ new Garden Coordinator. 

I spent hours each morning in the heat caring for the garden over the summer of 2023. Some days, I would wake up before the sun had risen to water the garden. To be alone outside at dawn, surrounded by plants and the song of birds and bugs, gave me many moments of stillness to reflect. These were some of my favorite times in the role; but what I enjoyed most thoroughly, was the time I spent with my gardeners during workdays. 

Each gardener brought something new to the space and strengthened our tightly knit community. I’ll never forget how proud I felt seeing students, who had never gardened before, earn their green thumbs. Being able to lead and educate them is something that has brought me joy for years; doing so even before officially being the Garden Coordinator. Thank you to all the volunteers and gardeners whom I have had the pleasure of getting to know and grow close to; you all rock! I hope that you all find success in your future gardens and life in general; you all deserve it. 

Thank you to my team for working towards a collective goal of making FSU more sustainable and supporting me when I needed it most; your understanding and kindness did not go unnoticed. 

While I am sad to part with the garden, I know that there are new doors for me to open; doors I haven’t even seen yet. Thanks for reading. 

-Hunter