David Forsell '89 Receives Arbor Day Foundation's Highest Honor

April 27, 2018

David Forsell, president of Keep Indianapolis Beautiful and 1989 graduate of DePauw University, was today presented with the Arbor Day Foundation's J. Sterling Morton Award, which recognizes an individual who has had a positive impact on the environment due to his or her lifelong commitment to tree planting and conservation. Forsell was honored for having "demonstrated a commitment to advancing tree planting and care through a record of education, work experience, talent, and temperament." (photo, l-r: former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard with Forsell today)

The award was presented to Forsell today, Arbor Day, at the Indy Free Tree giveaway on Monument Circle in Indianapolis. He was announced as one of five finalists for the honor in January.

"We are proud to give Dave this international recognition for his commitment to tree planting and conservation," said Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation. "He serves as an example to others across the tree planting community as someone who lives and breathes the importance of this vital work."

Since 1972, the Foundation has presented awards for work at the international, national, state, and community levels to recognize conservation efforts such as tree planting and care, Arbor Day celebrations, education, community projects, and roadside beautification. This year 24 finalists have been identified for six awards.