By Morgan Smith, Special to the Chronicle

On Sunday, a dedication ceremony took place to honor the life of Hofstra alumna and famed singer/song writer Ellie Greenwich and the new garden and park area dedicated to her beside the New Academic Building.

Despite Saturday’s cold snowstorm, Sunday’s warm weather welcomed the dedication service, which took place outside in front of the garden. “I think my sister was there,” said Laura Weiner, sister of Ellie Greenwich. “She didn’t like parties honoring her, she was just trying to worry me with Saturday’s weather.”

Many of Greenwich’s friends and family came out for the ceremony. Guests ranged from her Wreath and Foil (now known as Phi Sigma Sigma) sorority sisters, members and associates from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Lincoln Center and music journalist Mike McCann.

“It was a perfect day and a beautiful celebration,” said Nancy Ellwood, Hofstra alumna and best friend of Greenwich. “The garden was gorgeous—Ellie would be thrilled.”

After the speakers finished talking about Ellie’s life and memories, a ribbon was cut and everyone was invited to walk through the garden for the first time.

Immediately following was a reception in the New Academic Building. The reception was catered and decorated with pictures of Greenwich, with music playing in the background.

Greenwich left behind hundreds of enduring songs that will continue to be the backdrop of American pop music, television and film, as the songs she wrote are played time and time again.

“The garden was much more than I thought it would be,” said Weiner. “I hope everyone enjoys it.”