The Jurica Tallgrass Prairie
  
Jurica Tallgrass Prairie
Jurica Tallgrass Prairie behind Kindlon Hall
  
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Dr. Larry Kamin of the University's Biology Department weeded and planted the newly designed mesophytic prairie with the help of students, faculty, staff, and monks. The original site of the prairie was paved over during campus construction.

 

Over 500 prairie plants have been planted in the prairie plot which is dissected into quardrants by pathways. A diagonal walkway leads to the ‘learning circle’ and a bench on the main pathway allows one to view the prairie and also provides a stunning view of Lake Benedict.
Fraters Edmund and Hilary Jurica with Wimpy  
The prairie is dedicated to the memory of Fraters Hilary and Edmund Jurica (pictured at left with Wimpy). Fr. Hilary, the botanist, and Fr. Edmund, the zoologist, travelled around the country during the summer months gathering many of the specimens on display in the Jurica Nature Museum. They worked closely with other biologists around the country to bring many treasures to the college's collections. The brothers worked for forty years to elevate the University's Biology Department to the high level for which it continues to be known.