Co-op Legacy Fellow Mia Tunucci

ECOLearn: Growing Green

Spring 2023 UConn Co-op Legacy Fellowship – Change Grant Project

Project Mentor: Dr. Mariana Fragomeni, Plant Science and Landscape Architecture

Project Summary

Picture of the Eco Learn: Growing Green Garden outside of the UConn Dairy Bar.Growing Green was a living exhibit that displayed the core values and teachings of the Department of Plant Sciences and Landscape Architecture (PSLA). With funding from the Change Grant and support from UConn PSLA, Dairy Bar, Research Farm, and students, this space was enjoyed by all. 

The project was installed for two months during the fall semester of 2023 and included decorative plant beds, interactive demonstrations, and the exposure of multiple plant species. By creating an immersive environment, the project aimed to foster a deeper understanding of plant sciences and sustainable practices. The exhibit provided a tangible platform for individuals to explore and appreciate the intricate relationships between plants, ecosystems, and environmentally conscious design.

Growing Green was an extremely important project for the UConn PSLA Community. It allowed for the Picture of Change Grant recipient Mia Tunucci installing the Eco Learn: Growing Green Garden outside of the UConn Dairy Bar.exposure of the department to UConn students and the wider community. The project accomplished its goals of providing an immersive and hands-on experience that effectively communicated subjects such as sustainability, environment awareness, and innovative design through the display of nature.

As an individual, this project provided me with the opportunity to apply the knowledge I gained as an undergraduate and put into practice. I actively participated in the entire process, from design, documentation, construction, and installation. This hands-on experience allowed me to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, reinforcing and deepening my understanding on the subject matter. 

Click here to learn more about the project.

About Mia

Mia is a senior majoring in Landscape Architecture in the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources.