The Distinguished Service Medal is awarded for distinguished service in the field of horticulture.

The Distinguished Service Medal was endowed in 1953 by Priscilla Sleeper Sterling (Mrs. Robert D. Sterling), Garden Club of Dublin and Monadnock Garden Club, both Zone I. Although Priscilla’s primary interest was in conservation, she believed that horticulture played an integral part in the quality of life. Elizabeth Rhodes Reynolds designed the medal first awarded in 1955.