Cal Poly commences construction on Kristin Smart Grove
Cal Poly campus.
Memorial space is expected to open before the fall semester
– Cal Poly has begun construction on Kristin Smart Grove, a memorial space near Dexter Lawn that will honor the life and legacy of former student Kristin Smart.
The university said the grove is intended to serve as a gathering place where students can reflect, recharge, and connect with one another. Construction is expected to be complete by the end of summer, and the grove is scheduled to open to the public by the start of Cal Poly’s fall semester in mid-August. An official opening is planned for later this year.
The university said the memorial was developed through a collaboration between Cal Poly and the Smart family, who helped shape its design.
At the family’s request, students from Cal Poly’s College of Architecture and Environmental Design played a central role in designing the space. According to the university, the grove is intended to provide an environment for reflection while fostering community and encouraging people to look out for one another.
Smart was a Cal Poly freshman when she was reported missing in May 1996.
In a statement, the Smart family said:
“Our deepest thanks go to Dr. Armstrong and his team. From our very first discussions, they approached this project with heartfelt empathy and respect, showing us they understood the depth of our loss. By acknowledging the past and actively building a safer campus for the future, they have demonstrated the kind of compassionate leadership that truly honors Kristin’s life and dreams.”
Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong said the university was honored to work with the Smart family on the project.
“Cal Poly has been honored to work closely with Kristin’s family to ensure that this new installation will give our campus community members and visitors a place to gather and reflect on Kristin’s joyous spirit and where her life can positively impact others’ for generations to come,” Armstrong said.
