Birth of a Concept

The concept of the Peace Garden at Fresno State was born when a memorial for Mahatma Gandhi, prophet of nonviolence and Father of the Human Rights Movement in the 20th Century, was dedicated on October 2, 1990.

The memorial was the result of combined efforts of students, faculty, staff, and administration at Fresno State. Various community groups, including members of the Indian community from the valley, provided financial assistance.

The four-foot, 1,500-pound Gandhi bronze bust, designed by Fresno Artist James Zerl Smith, was poured in the Fresno State Art Department Foundry.

Soon after the dedication, the Peace Garden Advisory Committee was formed to pursue the goal of a Peace Garden.

Future Plans

Including a memorial of a woman has always been part of the plan, according to Dr. Sudarshan Kapoor, Chair of the Peace Garden Committee. See a listing of the nominees and read their biographies.

Plans are under way to develop the Richard D. Ford Peace Plaza, with brick paved walkways to resemble spokes on a wheel and create a center focus for the garden. Future plans for the Peace Garden include recognition of Native Americans and a peace wall reflecting the rich cultural heritage and diversity of our community.