A special tree growing just west of Academic Hall has played a role in many of our alumni’s love stories.

The Engagement Tree, also known as the Marriage Tree and the Love Tree, is a large sugar maple along the walkway on the west side of Academic Hall. At the base of the larger branches, you’ll see an eastern red cedar growing “in” the tree. It is said to be a demonstration of the tree’s history of nurturing relationships.

At one time, there were benches underneath the tree that afforded couples a bit of privacy, especially after dark. There have been many stories passed down from alumni and faculty about students returning to the tree because it’s where they received their first kiss, fell in love, or got engaged.

Did you find love beneath the tree? We want to hear your story! Email us at editor@semo.edu.