2008 Woodie Awards
Nolan honored with memorial tree dedication Monday
Brandon Gorman & Sarah Kloepping
Issue date: 10/31/07 Section: News
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The dedication culminated a week of memorials for Nolan that included a presentation of an Associate of Arts degree and a memorial book.
"It was beautiful, absolutely touching," Mary Jane Nolan, Kelly's mother, said. "The tree brings so much to our family and friends and the community of Waunakee."
The tree, a Black Maple, is a new species being introduced to Wisconsin and the UW-Whitewater campus, Barb Penington, chair of the communication department, said.
"[Everyone] will come and see the tree and think of Kelly," she said. "We can just imagine how this tree is going to grow and be a nice place where students can come and kind of escape from their classes and teachers."
The idea for the tree came from UW-Whitewater professor Peter Smudde, who was one of Nolan's instructors. Smudde said a tree would be the best kind of memorial because it fits how the university wants to remember her.
"It's kind of a strong, enduring impression and memory we'll have because it will always be there growing," Smudde said. "Every time I come into this building and see this tree I'll be thinking of Kelly."
Family members said UW-Whitewater's approach to remembering the life of Nolan has been a positive experience.
"We're so impressed with the university," Shirley Johnson, Nolan's aunt, said. "The ceremony was so moving and inspiring."
Nolan, 22, went missing June 23 after a night out with friends in downtown Madison. Her body was found two weeks later in an area approximately 10 miles from where she was last seen alive. No suspects have been named, but the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Madison area Crimestoppers at (608) 266-6014.
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