There likely isn’t one colorful bloom or blade of grass on The University of Alabama campus that Bonner Lee hasn’t touched. As UA’s senior landscape designer, Lee has spent his more than 15 years here making it his mission to grow the campus’s long-held reputation for expansive beauty.
“I grew up working in and around landscapes and thought I might move away from this after completing college, but here I am doing more than I ever imagined when I was younger,” he said.
Lee spent his undergraduate years at Auburn and later earned his master’s at Alabama. While in college, he completed a horticulture internship at Disney. He has carried that experience with him throughout his career.
“I keep that knowledge in that my main thing is to make sure campus always looks good.”
The already beloved elephant topiary that adorns the lawn of Rose Administration is one of the most recognizable results of that influence.
Favorite Campus Projects
A few of Lee’s favorite design projects on campus are Woods Quad, the Walk of Champions and Bryce Lawn. “I want visitors to have a great outdoor experience around campus,” he said. “One of the best things to do, to me, is sit under the Magnolia tree on Bryce Lawn.
“I’m especially proud of Woods Quad because it has created outdoor viewing spaces where student and faculty art are given a stage in the landscape,” Lee added. “Understanding the importance of athletics at UA, the Walk of Champions is a design that gives visitors a full walking and elevated entry experience with its approach to Bryant Denny Stadium.”
One reason Lee is an Everyday Champion is that his work is appreciated by others who know the impact of a beautifully designed campus.
The Many Paths to Campus Growth
“The things that make our campus so pretty, walkable and memorable are often Bonner’s ideas,” said Janine McGee, assistant director of housing administration and Lee’s nominator. “He puts thought into every sidewalk, all the landscape design and how it flows. Every corner of campus has Bonner’s touch.”
As UA’s campus sees continuous growth, Lee’s duties now include much more oversight of the campus than hands-on design to make sure it maintains its award-winning standards.
He is also part of the construction project teams. “I’m brought in at the beginning, and review proposed designs and schematics, ensuring that the entire project is successful while following the established campus standards,” Lee explained.
He is proud of his work, but also to be part of the team that works hard to keep people falling in love with the University.
“I love helping the campus grow,” he said. “I like to listen to students talk about what they love about our campus.
“What keeps me coming back is just trying to improve every day and getting the students and visitors excited about their outdoor campus experience.”
About Everyday Champions
UA is home to champions both on and off the field and in and out of the classroom. Everyday Champions are staff and faculty members who work behind the scenes to keep the campus running, show enthusiasm for supporting the UA campus, faculty, staff and students and embody the UA spirit of pride, determination and ingenuity. Submit an Everyday Champion you know to be considered for a feature.