Students and staff should mark their calendars for May 19, when the annual spring beautification event, University Day, will take place.

University Day is a century-old tradition that dates back to 1905. On this day, hundreds of individuals will gather together to plant flowers, spread barkdust and enjoy live entertainment provided by campus groups. 

Pre-registration is not necessary. Individuals interested in participating can gather at Collier Lawn across from the Erb Memorial Union amphitheater between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Participants who commit one hour of time will earn a free University Day t-shirt.

This year's campus project will be redesigning a footpath between Lawrence Hall and Villard Hall. Additionally, participants will help the grounds staff plant President Michael Schill's investiture tree near the pioneer statue between Fenton and Friendly halls at 10 a.m.

The day also includes the launch of the #DucksGive student event. Aligned with University Day, the event will kick off May 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Erb Memorial Union amphitheater.

Student participants will have the chance to win raffle items, such as an iPad and Duck gear baskets provided by the Duck Store, or a football game-day experience to be used during the 2016 season. Students can also win prizes from a variety of local businesses, including VooDoo Doughnuts, Track Town Pizza, Townshend’s Tea Company and Chipotle.

Activities include signing thank you cards to UO donors, playing carnival-style games or taking photos at a photo booth. The event also features activities to educate students on the current state of giving at the UO and the need for academic support.

For more information visit ducksgive.uoregon.edu.

—By Karen Schmidt-MacKenzie, Student Life Communications