Cal Poly and the family of Kristin Smart have announced the creation of Kristin’s Grove, a new memorial space located near the university’s Dexter Lawn and designed as a lasting tribute to her life, legacy and bright spirit. 

More than a memorial, the grove is intended to be a welcoming destination where students can gather, reflect, recharge, and connect with one another, organizers said.

Completion is anticipated by the beginning of the fall semester in mid-August, with an official opening later in the year.

“Designed as a living tribute to Kristin’s enduring legacy, this new space fulfills her vision of a place that invites both reflection and connection,” organizers said. “The memorial reflects a close 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 creating a sanctuary, crafting an environment that honors Kristin’s spirit while fostering community and quiet reflection for generations to come.

“The memorial is a lasting call to care for one another, a reminder to pay attention, look out for each other, and recognize that safety and community belong to all of us,” Cal Poly said.

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 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,” said Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong.