The Tulips on Troost Project, initiated in 2006 by UMKC graduate and Troost business owner Durwin Rice, is a success! Over 50,000 tulips have been planted up and down Troost Avenue. Many organizations and individuals throughout the metropolitan area have and are participating in this project. Southtown selected one special group for the month of March that really sparkled this past fall- the UMKC Arts and Sciences Alumni Association Board. Established in 1991, the board consists of 17 active members headed by President Leo Hirner. Members Jennifer Wilding and Vicki Walker chaired this particular event. Karen Vorst, Dean of the College and Karen Beal, Director of Alumni Relations coordinated the project.
UMKC Alumni wanted to help with the Tulip Project, not just because Troost is UMKC’s eastern border, but also because many of UMKC students, faculty and alumni live near Troost. The University has an interest in making Durwin Rice’s vision come true because it’s part of their neighborhood and city. “Giving back to the community is part of being a UMKC alumni,” according to Vicki Walker.
Congratulations to the UMKC Alumni Association Board of Directors and many thanks for helping to make Southtown Sparkle!