Sylvia Abbott

Sylvia Abbott

2021 Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

With deep appreciation for her inspirational talent and her devotion to share the joy of floral design through excellence in teaching, mentoring, and exhibiting.

Proposed by: Litchfield Garden Club, Zone II

Sylvia Abbott has inspired hope, ignited the imagination, and instilled a love of floral design throughout the GCA. Winner of multiple floral design awards, Sylvia is an ardent advocate for flower shows. To share her love of floral design with GCA club members across the country, Sylvia helped to create Floral Design 101, available to anyone interested in learning. She was instrumental in training instructors for all 12 zones. Following the success of that program, FD201 and FD301 were created, continuing the instruction for intermediate and advanced floral designers.

A long-time judge, Sylvia’s comments are always clear and concise, focusing on the elements and principles of design, and providing sensitive comments that inform visitors and teach the arrangers. Many happy exhibitors have benefited from her gentle manner, and her calm, sincere, and thoughtful approach. Sylvia Abbott is a shining example of a GCA club member stimulating knowledge and the love of floral design.

The Katharine Thomas Cary Medal is awarded in recognition of outstanding achievement in the field of floral design education.

The Katharine Thomas Cary Medal was endowed by New Canaan Garden Club, Zone II, in memory of member Katherine Babcock Thomas Cary (Mrs. William Harris Cary: 1874–1953). She served as a GCA director, floral design judge, and GCA librarian. The medal was designed in 1955 by Karl Gruppe and first awarded in 1956.

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