Dozens of students, faculty, staff, friends, and family gathered to honor the life and legacy of Professor David Buckley with a tree planting in the UT Gardens on April 14. A white oak tree was planted in his memory. His wife, Barbara, also attended the ceremony. UTIA Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Keith Carver, Herbert College of Agriculture Dean David White, and School of Natural Resources Director Don Hodges spoke at the tree planting. Max Brabson, a junior forestry student, also spoke about Professor Buckley’s kindness, authenticity, and impact on his students. “He reshaped how students saw their futures. He took an interest in us in and out of the classroom,” Brabson said.

Dr. Buckley joined SNR, formerly the Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, in 1998. He taught hundreds of students, mentored many graduate students, and was known as one of their favorite instructors. The plaque by the white oak says Dr. Buckley is “remembered as a kind and admired mentor, educator, and friend, who inspired generations of students and colleagues with his love of the natural world and the need to respect, care, and sustain it.”

Thank you to everyone who came to the tree planting. To continue honoring Professor Buckley’s legacy, please consider supporting the Professor David Buckley Forestry Scholarship Endowment.