EUGENE, Ore. – At Bushnell University, every detail of the campus environment plays a part in shaping the student experience—and much of that begins with the grounds themselves. Tysen Buhler ’16 wears many hats as the Grounds Manager for Facilities Services, but he sums it up simply: “If it’s outside, I’m at least somewhat responsible for it.” From lawns and trees to sidewalks and flowerbeds, Buhler oversees the care and presentation of the campus’s outdoor environment — a responsibility he embraces as both a calling and a joy.
A Bushnell alumnus, Buhler’s connection to the university runs deep. “Both of my parents went here, and both of my older brothers played on the basketball team.” With strong family ties to the school, Buhler had visited campus many times before enrolling. He eventually chose Bushnell for its newly launched biology program, which aligned with his passion for the sciences. As a student, Buhler immersed himself in campus life, serving as an RA, singing in the choir, managing the men’s basketball team, and even running track. “I kind of overloaded myself sophomore and junior year,” he laughs. “I found out what my limits were.”
After earning his degree in 2016, Buhler returned to Bushnell as an admissions counselor. Though he loved the relational aspect of that role, the pandemic shifted his work to a virtual format, prompting him to reconsider his path. “I’m someone who likes to be out doing things, working with my hands,” he says. That realization led him to a conversation with longtime Grounds Manager Kent Willocks, who had once shared his passion for the job during Buhler’s student days. When a position opened on the grounds crew, Buhler stepped in and eventually took over the department after Willocks retired.
We recently caught up with Buhler to learn more about his work behind the scenes, his approach to outdoor design, and how he brings creativity and care to his role in maintaining the heart of campus. You can watch the full interview on Bushnell University’s YouTube channel or view it in the video below.
Designing Outdoor Spaces That Inspire
For Buhler, groundskeeping is more than just maintenance: it’s design, stewardship, and long-term vision. “Every outdoor space has a purpose, whether that’s to create a peaceful place for reflection, a safe area for gathering, or simply something beautiful to walk by on the way to class,” he explains. His hands-on approach blends horticultural knowledge with thoughtful planning, keeping in mind how students, staff, and guests interact with the environment. From seasonal color changes to storm clean-up and safety monitoring, every detail is part of a larger strategy to enhance the campus experience.
From Concept to Construction
In addition to maintaining the campus landscape, Buhler also leads new hardscape projects, such as walkways, seating areas, and retaining walls. These efforts require a balance of creativity, engineering, and function. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing a project through from idea to reality,” he says. “When we build something new, it’s not just about how it looks — it’s about how it’s going to be used and enjoyed for years to come.”
Groundskeeping as a Ministry of Service
For Buhler, returning to Bushnell as a staff member feels like a full-circle moment. “This place shaped me in so many ways. It’s meaningful to be able to give back by caring for it.” Whether it’s the grass students play on or the trees they study under, he sees his role as directly enhancing their experience: “You’re working to keep the environment clean, safe, and beautiful.”
More than just creating a beautiful space, Buhler also invests in the students he hires to help care for it. “We talk a lot about calling — where your passion meets the world’s greatest need for Christ,” he says. Whether they’re mowing lawns or raking leaves, Buhler uses the job as a platform for mentoring and meaningful conversations about faith, purpose, and work ethic.