This year marks the 100th anniversary of Buxton Park and the creation of the Indianola parks system, and a design created by Simpson College junior Jenna DeDecker has been selected to serve as the logo for the event.

The beautiful, tree- and flower-filled five-acre park located directly north of campus was dedicated to the city by William Buxton Sr. in 1906. It was the first park for Indianola, which now has 12 parks. The city will host a large celebration in the park from 2:30 to 9:30 p.m. on July 15 (rain date July 16).

When planning for the celebration began, it was clear the city needed a design to be used on brochures and posters, and for other promotions for the event. Art department chair David Richmond recommended the names of about a half dozen Simpson art students to the celebration committee, and the committee offered these students the opportunity to create the design. DeDecker, a German and art double major with emphasis on graphic design from Urbandale, created the logo the committee liked best.

DeDecker's design features a black and white photograph of the park during its early days as well as beautiful color photographs of what the park looks like today, in addition to a Victorian light pole graphic, characteristic of the light fixtures along the park's paths.

DeDecker said she decided to work on the project so she could gain more experience and build her portfolio.

“I was overjoyed when I found out they chose my design. It is really nice to have someone recognize your work as good,” said DeDecker. “It is very encouraging.”

Her design has already been featured on the cover of the 2006 Indianola Parks and Recreation Department Activity Guide and will soon appear in brochures, on posters and on the front of T-shirts that will be available for the July celebration.

DeDecker is the daughter of Craig and Mary DeDecker of Urbandale.