Debbie Murray Garden to be dedicated on Sept. 25

A new addition is coming to the Lee University Campus, right beside the Cornerstone Chapel. The Debbie Murray Garden will be dedicated on Sept. 25.

The garden will honor Dr. Debbie Murray. Murray served as the Vice President for Academic Affairs in 2013 and as its Provost and Chief Academic Officer in 2020. Murray later transitioned to the role of senior ambassador in the Office of the President.

The project started as an idea from Chancellor Dr. Paul Conn. Last year, he asked Murray if they could name the landmark after her, to which she felt gratified.

“I was just very honored,” Murray said. “I never thought about something like that. He selected me because I’ve been here so long.”

The finished product of the garden will be an extension of the Cornerstone Chapel, featuring grassy areas and a water fountain. 

During the planning process, designers wanted it to match the design of the Cornerstone Chapel. They looked for months until they were able to find the exact same stone used for the chapel. 

“Just from the drawings I’ve seen, it’s very different than anything we have on campus,” Murray said. “I think it’s very exciting.”

It will serve as an addition on campus where students can take a break from their class schedule and find a place to relax, similar to the PCSU or Squires Library.

Campus Pastor Wes Lutes believes the garden could provide a place for people to wind down and be in the presence of the Lord.

“I think these gardens are going to give our students, faculty, and staff a place to be outside, be with nature,” Lutes said.

There are plans to add a columbarium later on, but the current focus is on completing the space.

Photo by Emme Lowder