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
American Society of Botanical Artists
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For conveying the beauty and botanical characteristics of plants...
Robin Wall Kimmerer
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For her research and inspirational writing on the topics of ecological...
Dr. Cynthia Morton
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Presented to Dr. Cynthia Morton, in recognition of her research of genetic...
Dr. Richard A. Jaynes
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For his contributions to plant research, dedication to promoting...
Desert Botanical Garden
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For exceptional achievement in botanical research, education, exhibition...
Paul Cox
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
With gratitude to a renowned ethnobotanist, consummate scientist, teacher,...
Longwood Gardens
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For the spectacular horticultural displays, exquisitely maintained gardens...
John A. Ruthven
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For dedicating his life’s work to preserving the beauty of nature...
Ronald O. Determann
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Presented to Ron Determann for his expertise in southern plants, orchids,...
Lily Y. Beck
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Awarded to Lily Y. Beck whose major translation of the 1st century...
William McNamara
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Presented to William Alan McNamara for scholarly research, documentation,...
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Accepted by William Baker, The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is in its fortieth...
Cherie Pettit
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
For her exceptional artistic talent through the beautiful scarves and...
Dr. Harrison Leslie Flint
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Presented to Dr. Harrison L. Flint, Professor Emeritus, Horticulture and...
Louisa Rawle Tine
Eloise Payne Luquer Medal
Presented to Louisa Rawle Tine for enriching the field of art in botany...