The towering white oak northwest of Wilson Hall is nameless no more. The tree will forever be known as Founder's Oak, thanks to the Vanderbilt Student Government.
Affectionately known as "Acornelius," the white oak was selected as the inaugural tree of the new Vanderbilt University Anchored & Rooted: Tree Naming Competition.
"Founder's Oak is a testament to Cornelius Vanderbilt and Bishop McTyeire's foresight and the lasting role the arboretum has played in shaping 150 years of campus life. The inaugural naming has turned out better than oak-ay, it's unbe-leaf-ably elegant," said Vice Chancellor for Real Estate, Facilities and Development Carl Rodrigues. "The annual tree naming competition was designed to further strengthen student involvement in our campus and the Vanderbilt University Arboretum."
Beginning in fall 2027, students, faculty and staff will be invited to participate directly in naming notable trees on campus. An announcement detailing submission requirements and deadlines will be released during the fall 2026 semester.
"White oaks have such deep roots at Vanderbilt, and this year's tree selection allows us to honor that history while also inviting creativity," said James Moore, Vanderbilt University landscape architect. "Trees are living landmarks. Giving them names helps people notice them, talk about them and think differently about their role on campus."
Today, Vanderbilt's arboretum spans more than 300 acres and includes over 6,000 trees and shrubs representing more than 190 species. The campus currently holds ArbNet Level II accreditation and Tree Campus USA recognition. Through expanded education, outreach and engagement like this competition, the university is one step closer to achieving a Level III accreditation.
"Vanderbilt's arboretum is a sanctuary in an urban setting," Rodrigues said. "By engaging students directly, this tradition helps ensure its care and appreciation for generations to come."
For now, "Acornelius" stands as the first named symbol of that effort, its branches linking Vanderbilt's past, present and future.
ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION
On Friday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, Vanderbilt Student Government, James Moore and members of the grounds team will meet at Bishop Commons to celebrate Arbor Day by planting new trees on campus. A collectible pin highlighting the beauty and history of the Vanderbilt University Arboretum will be available while supplies last to those in attendance.
At noon, Moore will lead a guided arboretum tour exploring the history of Vanderbilt's campus landscape.
