Best College Reviews, a ranking service for American colleges and universities, has released a list of the top 50 College Arboretums that includes five colleges and universities in Pennsylvania.

The Pennsylvania schools include: Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Allegheny Arboretum, Indiana (10); Haverford College- Haverford College Arboretum, Haverford (24); University of Pennsylvania-Morris Arboretum, Philadelphia (27); Cedar Crest College-William F. Curtis Arboretum, Allentown (35); and Chatham University-Chatham University Arboretum, Pittsburgh (38).

(Photo: Indiana University Allegheny Arboretum.)

The demands of modern society often times get the best of us.  We rarely feel we have time for anything other than the next item on the to-do list. Stress is listed on just about every health problem we know of as a potential cause. 

Where does one retreat, regather, re-energize, and regroup in this world? 

Ancient wisdom and modern research tell us that spending time in nature can help bring healing, balance, and renewal physically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially. 

Our colleges have known this for many years, and they continue to develop places of great natural beauty that function as sanctuaries in a stressed out world for both the student and public. 

In addition to the effects beauty has on our souls, college arboretums and gardens are a place of thriving research, inspiration, learning, and study.

Nick Plato, the article's author, said this about the list: "This list was one of the most enjoyable to research. I found myself wanting to visit each school just to hang out in such beautiful settings.  I was impressed with the commitment of so many of our schools to nature, study, research, and contemplation, not only for students, but for the whole community.  Being a J.R.R. Tolkien lover made me think of his great love for trees and the inspiration of nature for him in writing one of the most beloved stories of the last century."

For a short description of each arboretum, visit the top 50 College Arboretums webpage.

11/9/2015