Peace Garden Drive reopening celebration honors Mayo staff, marks construction milestone
Early Thursday, June 19, a few dozen Mayo Clinic staff gathered at the Sister Lauren Weinandt Gazebo on Rochester's Saint Marys Campus to celebrate the reopening of Peace Garden Drive on the south side of campus. The event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing construction efforts aimed at enhancing the campus experience for staff and patients.
The morning began with remarks from Daniel R. Brown, M.D., chair of the Rochester Hospital Practice Subcommittee, who reflected on the perseverance of Mayo Clinic staff throughout the disruption caused by construction.
"This critical artery into the Saint Marys Campus has been part of our history for many years, and will continue to serve us into the future," Dr. Brown said. He also highlighted the progress toward the completion of a new 1,000-stall staff parking ramp, which is located across the road from the gazebo and is set to open next year.
Sister Cashel Weiler offered a peace blessing that resonated with attendees. She emphasized unity as well as gratitude for the "many hands and hearts" that contributed to the construction efforts.
"Peace is true. Peace is noble. Peace is pure. Peace is admirable," Sister Cashel said, drawing from scripture to bless the road and those who helped bring the project to life.
The event concluded with a ceremonial tree planting in honor of Mayo Clinic staff, a moment that symbolized growth, resilience and reflection.
Lindsey Lehman, associate administrator for Hospital Operations, spoke about the legacy of Sister Lauren Weinandt, whose gazebo and grounds represent a space of respite and renewal for staff.
Quoting part of Sister Lauren's final letter to Mayo Clinic staff, Lehman shared, "Thank you for all of your faithful service. You are No. 1 in my book, and we will continue to be No. 1 in the world."
Kelly A. Fjerstad, vice chair of Nursing, underscored the Mayo Clinic values embodied by staff by adding, "It takes everybody — and please know it's not just for what they do, but truly who they are as people."
Staff who attend or visit the gazebo throughout the day were invited to take a wildflower seed packet as a token of gratitude for their patience and for reflecting Mayo values during construction. The tree planted during the ceremony will soon be accompanied by a permanent marker to honor Mayo Clinic staff.