Stanford Announces Tree-Themed Neighborhood Names to Promote Campus Identity

Stanford University has officially announced the names of its eight neighborhoods, selected by students through the recent Neighborhood Identity Design Process. The tree-themed names, though unconventional, are set to promote a sense of unity and identity among the campus community.

Stanford's neighborhoods encompass all dormitories and row houses — the entirety of the undergraduate campus — and will provide a shared home for students as they navigate their undergraduate careers at the University. (Image credit: Stanford RedEd)

The new neighborhood names are as follows:

• S. Betula Alleghaniensis
• T. Chionanthus Retusus
• A. Diospyros Texana
• N. Fraxinus Dipetala
• F. Halesia Tetraptera
• O. Juglans Hindsii
• R. Koelreuteria Paniculata
• D. Liriodendron Tulipifera

While the names chosen reflect the diverse array of tree species found on the Stanford campus, they were not the exact names submitted by the students. The University engaged student leaders to select the names, as many of the student-submitted names were deemed too controversial and divisive.

University President Marc Tessier-Lavigne praised the final selections, stating, “These unique and imaginative names reflect the natural beauty of our campus and the creativity of our student body. We are confident that they will foster a deeper sense of community and identity among our students, staff, and faculty.”

Provost Persis Drell emphasized the importance of campus identity and belonging, saying, “The new neighborhood names are a testament to the creativity and diversity of our student body. We believe they will help build a stronger sense of pride and belonging among all members of the Stanford community.”

Cultivating a shared neighborhood identity

In addition to the new names, each neighborhood will have its own logo and mascot, further emphasizing the sense of identity and belonging. The logos and mascots will be unveiled at a later date, and students will have the opportunity to provide input and feedback.

Residential student leaders from all neighborhoods attending student staff training, starting with a check-in event held earlier this year at White Plaza. (Image credit: Micaela Go)

The Neighborhood Identity Design Process also introduced Farm Games, a series of friendly competitions between the neighborhoods. Students will represent their neighborhoods in events such as Two-Ball Basketball and the Dish Run, with prizes awarded for sportsmanship and spirit.

Vice Provost for Student Affairs Susie Brubaker-Cole also praised the student-led process and its outcomes: “The new neighborhood names demonstrate the power of collaboration and creativity. We are proud of our students for taking the initiative to shape the identity of their communities. These names are not only fun and whimsical but also reflect the unique character of each neighborhood.”

The new neighborhood names will take effect immediately, and updates to campus maps and signs will reflect the changes. Stanford students, staff, and faculty can now proudly identify with their unique tree-themed neighborhood and all the community and identity it represents.