A memorial tree was planted Monday outside of Moody Coliseum in honor of Karen Griffith, who was a staff member for 17 years before her passing in April.

Griffith worked in the registrar’s office for seven years before transitioning into a role in the Depot, which she held for 10 years.

The idea to plant a tree in Griffith’s honor came from Bradon Owens, who works in the registrar’s office. It was then proposed to Kathy Redman, who was Griffith’s best friend and co-worker, as well as Brett Butler, the director of student administrative services and an instructor in the Department of Language and Literature.

Butler worked with Griffith in the Depot for six years and said everyone thought it was a good idea.

“We immediately agreed that this is a great way to honor Karen in a tangible way,” Butler said. “It’s a visual reminder of her commitment to ACU and her heart for serving ACU students.”

Butler said placing the tree in the green area outside of Moody was a conscious choice made by Griffith’s friends and former co-workers.

“We chose the location because of its close proximity to the heart of campus and the Depot,” Butler said. “I love the idea that hundreds of students will pass the tree each day, and sometimes they will see the plaque and know that Karen left a lasting impression on this campus.”

Butler said he hopes people remember Griffith’s devotion.

“Karen was a selfless servant,” Butler said. “She would want people to remember her heart for service, and most of all, that her service was motivated by her love for Jesus.”

Redman, who worked alongside Griffith in the registrar’s office, said the same.

“Karen was a wonderful person who loved this university and all its students,” Redman said. “She touched many lives and was a wonderful Christian example.”

Butler said he thinks a tree is a fitting memorial.

“For those who knew Karen, the memorial tree is a constant reminder of the many lessons we’ve learned from her and the difference she made in our lives.”