A Living Tribute to a Dedicated Educator
Outside the Education Building stands the Blanco Memorial Tree, a Red Maple (Acer rubrum) planted in memory of Dr. Harold Blanco, a Marshall University professor whose commitment to education, students, and community left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
The tree was planted on April 7, 2016, by family members, friends, colleagues, and students following Dr. Blanco’s death after a bicycling accident in March 2016. Located near the building where he taught, the tree serves as a permanent reminder of his contributions to Marshall University and the lives he touched through teaching and mentorship.
Honoring Dr. Harold Blanco
Dr. Blanco taught at Marshall University and at St. Joseph Catholic Middle School. He died following injuries sustained in a bicycling accident at Barboursville Park during spring break in March 2016.
He was survived by his wife, an infant son, and a teenage daughter. In the weeks following his passing, the Marshall community came together to honor his memory and support his family.
The Memorial Tree Planting
On April 7, 2016, loved ones gathered outside the Education Building to plant a Red Maple in Dr. Blanco’s memory. Family members participated in the ceremony by helping break ground and place soil around the newly planted tree.
Learn more about Red MapleAccording to coverage in The Parthenon, the tree was intended to serve as a place where students, colleagues, friends, and family members could gather and remember Dr. Blanco. Because he did not have a gravesite, the memorial tree provided a meaningful place for reflection and remembrance.
Colleagues also expressed hope that the tree would serve as a reminder of Dr. Blanco’s passion for education and his place within the Marshall University community.
A Living Memorial
Memorial trees occupy a special place within the Marshall University Arboretum. They not only commemorate individuals and events, but also continue to grow and contribute to the campus landscape for generations.
The Blanco Memorial Tree reflects this tradition. As the Red Maple matures, it serves as an enduring tribute to a respected educator whose legacy continues through the students, colleagues, and family members whose lives he influenced.
The Blanco Memorial Tree Today
Today, the Blanco Memorial Tree remains a quiet place of remembrance outside the Education Building. Students, faculty, staff, and visitors pass by its branches throughout the year, often unaware of the story behind it.
Yet the tree continues to fulfill its original purpose: providing a lasting connection to Dr. Harold Blanco and preserving his memory within the campus community he served.
Campus Location
Visitors can find the Blanco Memorial Tree along the west end of the Education Building. The map below highlights its location. Click on the map to open a larger version.
Learn More
Quick Facts
Common Name: Blanco Memorial Tree
Species: Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
Location: Outside Education Building
Planted: April 7, 2016
Honoree: Dr. Harold Blanco
Purpose: Memorial tree honoring a Marshall University educator