Trees don't normally take sprout inside a building, but the Ohio University Southern Campus in Ironton is unique.

A new Giving Tree now adorns the walls of the Collins Center.

From the front entrance, it's located just to the right of the Bowman Auditorium.

The tree displays names of

the major donors to the Bicentennial Campaign, an ongoing effort to raise $5 million for various campaign priorities.

"It's an excellent way for Ohio University Southern to say 'thanks' to those people who have been so generous with their gifts to the campaign," said Bob Smith, assistant dean for development at OUS.

The leaves of bronze, silver and gold represent the various levels of giving to the campaign.

Acorns, stones and a mini-tree signify the highest range of gifts.

As of Nov. 30,

$3.3 million of the $5 million had been raised.

The campaign ends June 30, 2004, the year Ohio University celebrates its 200th birthday.