A Moving Memorial
By Sarah Grace Smith
I
f you find yourself near the Easton E3 Learning Lab, you might spot a new feature: an ash wood bench. But this is no ordinary bench – it’s an homage to a beloved community member. Rebecca Eldemire, a 2012 New Albany High School graduate, was a student loved by both teachers and classmates. “Everybody who met her was her friend,” says Sandra Reed, E3 building coordinator and previous teacher of El22
demire. “She was a leader academically, she was a leader for the environment and she was a leader with people.” Reed says that Eldemire was passionate about the environment. She showed up to every meeting for Reed’s middle school adventure club, even when she was too old to participate. “She was one of the most passionate individuals I’ve ever met about the environment,” says Reed. When she was tragically killed in 2015 at Miami University, a memorial
bench was created from an ash tree from Reed’s front yard. Engraved on the bench is a quote by Eldemire: “Go outside no matter what and sit.” Eldemire said it during her days as a student in Reed’s class, when Reed would have her students go outside and spend quiet time with nature. The bench sits in the midst of a prairie garden, which has been an almost two-year beautification and education project. www.healthynewalbanymagazine.com
Photos courtesy of Easton E3 Learning Lab
New Albany honors alum in her favorite place: nature
