From code to conifers: McMaster IT staff cultivate community and sustainability on Earth Day

In a heartening display of community spirit and environmental stewardship, IT staff at McMaster University traded their keyboards for garden shovels this Earth Day. A team gathered at the west entrance of the McMaster Divinity College to transform a simple patch of grass into a flourishing garden.

The initiative, organized by the University Technology Services (UTS) social committee, saw staff members, led collaboratively by Derek Konieczny and other committee members, plant conifers and a serviceberry tree. These plants were generously donated by the McMaster Athletics and Recreation Department and UTS, chosen for their low maintenance and environmental benefits.

“It’s more than just planting trees; it’s about growing as a team and contributing to sustainability,” said Derek Konieczny. “It feels great to step out of the office and make a tangible impact on our environment.”

Princy Olakkengil, another UTS team member, added, “Seeing our collective effort take shape has been really rewarding. This garden is a small but powerful symbol of what we can achieve together.”

By the afternoon, the area had been transformed. The new garden not only beautifies the entrance but also serves as a living symbol of how collective effort can lead to positive change.

This initiative was one of many ways McMaster community members recognized and celebrated Earth Day at McMaster. To read more about Earth Day at McMaster, visit the Daily News.