NATIONAL MEDALISTSHighest Honors for Distinguished Achievements

Get to know the recipients of the GCA's national medals, the highest honors bestowed upon individuals for distinguished achievements in areas related to its purpose.

Annually, the GCA honors up to ten individuals or organizations with our highest honor – a national medal. These individuals and organizations have left a profound and lasting impact on the issues that are most important to The Garden Club of America. From floral design to garden restoration, from rose culture to conservation education, these awards are as varied and prestigious as their recipients.

Medalist Directory

 
   
 
 
 

2025

Betty and Robert Balentine

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For their work to sustain the natural ecosystems of the Blue Ridge...

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2024

Save the Sound

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For its work to protect natural resources surrounding the Long Island Sound...

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2023

Robert J. (Bob) Berkebile

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For his outstanding conservation advocacy and helping to form the US Green...

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2022

The Parklands of Floyds Fork

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Presented to The Parklands of Floyds Fork, a model for 21st century public...

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2021

Nainoa Thompson

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

In recognition of a visionary, educator, and steward of the earth whose...

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2020

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

In appreciation for the dedication, creativity and leadership demonstrated...

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2019

Brian Vogt

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For extraordinary leadership in transforming the Denver Botanic Gardens...

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2018

Save The Bay

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For decades of dedication to the protection of San Francisco Bay from...

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2017

Kristine McDivitt Tompkins

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For unparalleled work in protecting and restoring millions of acres of...

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2016

William D. Brinton

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For his inspirational leadership in protecting scenic beauty,...

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2014

Legacy Parks Foundation

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

For extraordinary efforts to preserve East Tennessee's unique landscape...

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2013

Frederick S. Middleton III

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Presented to Frederick S. Middleton III for 25 years of using the power of...

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2012

Mary Ross Fisher

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Presented to Rossie and Sandy Fisher 800x600 800x600 In...

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2011

Pollinator Partnership

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Awarded to Pollinator Partnership for effectively championing pollinators...

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2010

Deen Day Sanders

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Presented to Deen Day Sanders, For a lifetime of benevolent support for...

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2009

U.S. Green Building Council

Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal

Presented to U.S. Green Building Council, S. Fedrizzi, President and CEO ...

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