Alex Haley’s efforts within the university and in the world are commemorated with a brass plaque and tree in Circle Park. A poplar tree was planted and a plaque placed by it by the African Student Association of Knoxville in 1992. Children actually planted the tree to symbolize new beginnings, and according to Idrissa Ouedraogo, president of the association, “that all human beings come from the same roots.” The plaque reads: Alex Haley / 1921-1992 / In recognition of / his efforts to establish and maintain / African heritage and identity / UT African Student Association / April 1, 1992.