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

 
   
 
 
 

2026

American Society of Botanical Artists

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

 For conveying the beauty and botanical characteristics of plants...

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2025

Robin Wall Kimmerer

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For her research and inspirational writing on the topics of ecological...

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2022

Dr. Cynthia Morton

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Presented to Dr. Cynthia Morton, in recognition of her research of genetic...

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2021

Dr. Richard A. Jaynes

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For his contributions to plant research, dedication to promoting...

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2020

Desert Botanical Garden

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For exceptional achievement in botanical research, education, exhibition...

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2019

Paul Cox

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

With gratitude to a renowned ethnobotanist, consummate scientist, teacher,...

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2016

Longwood Gardens

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For the spectacular horticultural displays, exquisitely maintained gardens...

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2015

John A. Ruthven

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For dedicating his life’s work to preserving the beauty of nature...

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2013

Ronald O. Determann

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Presented to Ron Determann for his expertise in southern plants, orchids,...

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2011

Lily Y. Beck

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Awarded to Lily Y. Beck whose major translation of the 1st century...

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2009

William McNamara

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Presented to William Alan McNamara for scholarly research, documentation,...

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2007

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Accepted by William Baker, The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is in its fortieth...

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2005

Cherie Pettit

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For her exceptional artistic talent through the beautiful scarves and...

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2001

Dr. Harrison Leslie Flint

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Presented to Dr. Harrison L. Flint, Professor Emeritus, Horticulture and...

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1999

Angela Overy

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

For her roles in botanical artistry, education and botany.

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1997

Louisa Rawle Tine

Eloise Payne Luquer Medal

Presented to Louisa Rawle Tine for enriching the field of art in botany...

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