Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) will hold a groundbreaking for the Bickelhaupt Arboretum renovation and enhancements project at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 1 at 340 S. 14th St., Clinton. This transformational project will create a premier education and event center, enhancing hands-on learning, community engagement, and environmental appreciation.
Founded in 1970 by Robert and Frances Bickelhaupt, the arboretum has long been a hub for conservation education, showcasing a collection of hundreds of diverse trees, a nationally recognized Hosta Glade, diverse conifer collection, and vibrant pollinator gardens. Originally a private residence, the arboretum became a public treasure and was donated by the Bickelhaupt Family to EICC and the Clinton Community College Paul B. Sharar Foundation in 2014 to expand its educational mission. Now, the original homestead is being revitalized and expanded into a state-of-the-art space for learning and events.
“The major renovations happening at the Bickelhaupt Arboretum reflect generations of planning along with environmental and financial stewardship," said Shawn Hill-Lamb, granddaughter of Bob and Frances Bickelhaupt and daughter of Francie B. Hill, former Director of the Bickelhaupt Arboretum.
"Under the direction of Clinton Community College and with the support of the Bickelhaupt family and community, the Arboretum will remain accessible to visitors of all ages by providing enhanced experiences for everyone who comes to study and connect with nature. Given by our family as a gift to the community, the Arboretum continues to evolve by demonstrating sustainability and soon will be offering enhanced programming and new facilities. Our family is ever so proud of the Bickelhaupt Arboretum and its supporters for joining Clinton Community College to usher in this new span of growth. We honor the past while embracing the future and move forward with the founding principles of conservation, education, and community service that have always guided this special place. We encourage Iowa and regional residents, lifelong learners, and travelers through Iowa to visit Clinton's treasure, the Bickelhaupt Arboretum. Come watch us grow.”
The new events center will feature a 2,033-square-foot area with floor-to-ceiling
windows and an adjoining 2,200-square-foot outdoor deck, creating a stunning venue
for programs and gatherings. A unique art installation will transform the former pool
area into an illuminated gathering room, while two learning center rooms and a library
will support research, workshops, and interactive experiences.
“This is an amazing place with an amazing history," said Brian Kelly, Ed.D., M.B.A,
Clinton Community College President. "This next act of the Arboretum will provide
a new place to gather and learn in our community while celebrating nature and art."
Outdoor enhancements include a welcome pavilion, gazebo, and a gathering area with accessible pathways, seating, and shade. A standout feature, the Animal Exhibit, will immerse visitors in local wildlife habitats.
“This renovation is about honoring the past while building for the future,” said Ann Eisenman, Clinton Community College’s Assistant to the President and Foundation Director. “The Arboretum has always been a place of learning and connection, and these updates will make it an even more inviting space for education, community events, and nature appreciation.”
EICC remains dedicated to serving as THE Community’s College by expanding opportunities for students and the public. The revitalized Arboretum will enhance education across disciplines while providing a premier venue for conferences, celebrations, and cultural events.
The groundbreaking ceremony will begin with refreshments at 10 a.m., followed by the formal program at 10:15 a.m. Speakers will include Brian Kelly, Ed.D., M.B.A., Clinton Community College President & EICC’s Vice Chancellor of Strategy, Support, and Planning ; Clinton Mayor Scott Maddasion; Bickelhaupt family members; and additional honored guests. The event is open to the public.
For more information, contact Ann Eisenman at (563) 244-7040 or aeisenmanFREEEICC. Learn more at eicc.edu/bickelhauptreno.
Note: Parking will be available on-site. Please follow signage upon arrival.