Unity Environmental University has announced it is donating the Field of Dreams recreation area to the Town of Unity, ensuring the beloved public space will remain open and accessible for generations to come.
The 27-acre property features a universally accessible walking trail, athletic fields, tennis and basketball courts, a playground, picnic areas, and access to Unity Pond. For decades, it has been a gathering place for families, recreation, and outdoor enjoyment.
The Field of Dreams traces its roots to the vision of local philanthropist Bert Clifford, and the Unity Foundation, whose generosity to what was then Unity College helped create a place where recreation, accessibility, and the outdoors could be enjoyed by everyone. Since its creation, the property has become one of Unity’s most cherished public spaces.
“The Unity Foundation exists to carry forward Bert Clifford’s commitment to this town, and few places better represent that commitment than the Field of Dreams,” said Larry Sterrs, Chief Executive Officer of the Unity Foundation. “Unity Environmental University’s decision to donate this property to the Town of Unity ensures Bert’s vision will continue exactly as he intended, a place where local families gather, children play, and everyone has access to the outdoors. This gift permanently secures an important part of his legacy.” The donation follows the University’s sale of its former Unity campus and reflects its commitment to preserving one of the town’s most treasured public assets.
“When the Unity Foundation donated the Field of Dreams to the University in 1995, it entrusted us with far more than a piece of property, it entrusted us with a promise,” said Dr. Melik Peter Khoury, President and CEO of Unity Environmental University. “For the past three decades, Unity has made it a priority to preserve and improve this extraordinary place so it would always be worthy of the families, athletes, and visitors who enjoy it. In just the past few years alone, the University has invested more than $100,000 in upgrades. As we transition stewardship of the Field of Dreams to the Town of Unity, Unity Foundation and Unity Environmental University are proud to do so knowing it is ready to serve generations to come.”
“Even as the University evolved over the years, it continued its support to the Town of Unity by providing access to the Field of Dreams to the local community,” said Unity Selectman, Tony Avila. “This gift from Unity Environmental University will now ensure it remains that way permanently. We’re incredibly grateful that this gift guarantees public ownership and access for generations to come.”
