The Campus Beautification Committee (CBC) at Stony Brook University has been actively working to enhance the campus environment through various art projects. This year marked a particularly busy period for the committee, which focused on integrating student-created and community-driven artworks throughout the university.
One of the notable projects was a "mandala" created by alumnus Boxin Yao, '24, located at the Student Health Services/Counseling and Psychological Services Center. Yao described the mandala as a spiritual symbol from ancient Chinese culture that offers hope and healing.
In March, Norah Allam, '26, an artist double majoring in biomedical engineering and applied mathematics and statistics, painted an octopus mural titled "Le Judicieux" at Endeavor Hall for the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences. The CBC celebrated her work later in the fall semester.
Another project involved a mural on the Life Sciences Greenhouse retaining wall by Trinity Hausch, '26. The biochemistry major and president of the Greenhouse Club designed this mural to raise awareness about eco-friendly research conducted at Stony Brook University.
Sy Lee, '24, installed his "Water Droplet" sculpture in the North Reading Room of Melville Library. Lee aimed to create a welcoming atmosphere for students while highlighting collaboration opportunities within the library.
Ellie Mei Lu, '27, collaborated with the Origami Club to create "Harmony’s Grasp," an origami flag displayed at Charles B. Wang Center. This project involved folding 300 paper birds during a campus crane-a-thon event.
Emma Ehrhard, '24, contributed to beautifying the Educational Communications Center with a colorful mural. Ehrhard expressed her gratitude for being able to give back to her campus community.
During CommUniversity Day, LEGO enthusiasts participated in building a community mural at Stony Brook University's Office of Government and Community Relations. This event marked a new tradition for creative builders of all ages.
In October, students painted a large mural on the Sports Complex's back wall during Homecoming celebrations. This initiative was part of CBC's efforts to beautify campus spaces in partnership with the Department of Athletics.
Additionally, CBC collaborated with the Greenhouse Club on native garden planting around the Life Sciences Building. Sean Halliwell curated native species such as shrubby St. John’s wort and Beach Plum for this educational project.
The CBC is planning more projects across campus and invites participation from those interested in contributing their time or expertise.