Proposed by: Peachtree Garden Club, Zone VIII

Visionary leadership has been the hallmark of horticulturist Mary Pat Matheson, Anna and Hays Mershon president and CEO of the Atlanta Botanical Garden (ABG) since 2002. Her initiatives to engage the local community, host innovative cultural programs, highlight conservation, and showcase horticultural displays—including North America’s foremost collection of species orchids on permanent display—have elevated the profile of the 30-plus acre garden as a center for scientific research and community outreach and distinguished her as an outstanding leader in her field. Her achievements were acknowledged in 2022 by Peachtree Garden Club, Zone VIII, with the Zone VIII Civic Improvement Commendation.

Matheson has led capital campaigns that have raised well over $200 million to double the size of the gardens, construct a visitor’s center, create a children’s garden, and fund the establishment of 185-acre ABG, Gainesville. An 8-plus-acre garden extension is currently in the design phase and will connect the ABG to the city’s beltline, a 22-mile multiuse trail and park loop through 45 neighborhoods.

Matheson spearheaded the development of the Southeastern Center for Conservation at the ABG, dedicated to the conservation and recovery of rare and endangered plant species. She has had an impact on global public garden management while serving on the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) Advisory Council where she participated in the creation of BGCI’s garden accreditation scheme and played a significant role in the development of the world’s first site-based certification focused on biodiversity. She has collaborated with BGCI leaders to examine the role of public gardens in urban greening and biodiversity, practicing and promoting environmental sustainability, and addressing the illegal plant trade.