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

 
   
 
 
 

2024

Dede Petri

Distinguished Service Medal

For her tireless service on behalf of plants and the spaces created to...

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2022

The Center for Plant Conservation

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to The Center for Plant Conservation for its notable work in...

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2020

Archives of American Gardens

Distinguished Service Medal

Awarded for distinguished service in the field of horticulture.

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2017

Peter S. Wyse Jackson

Distinguished Service Medal

For lifelong leadership in plant discovery and conservation, world-renowned...

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2016

David Barnett

Distinguished Service Medal

For tireless stewardship of the horticultural and ecological...

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2014

Mary Phipps

Distinguished Service Medal

For her sensitive, informed, and vigilant stewardship of Old Westbury...

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2013

Jane Pepper

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to Jane G. Pepper for the exceptional contribution to gardening...

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2011

Kris Jarantoski

Distinguished Service Medal

Awarded to Kris Jarantoski for leadership, distinguished service, lifelong...

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2009

Florence Leanne Reed

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to Florence Reed.  Through her leadership, vision and...

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2008

William C. Welch

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to Dr. William C. Welch, horticulturist, author, leader, speaker...

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2007

Peggy Bowditch

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to Peggy Bowditch, a skilled grower, exhibitor,...

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2004

David Milarch

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to David Milarch for his vision and untiring efforts in founding...

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2003

Nancy McLaren

Distinguished Service Medal

For her distinguished service to horticulture as evidenced by her lasting...

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2001

New England Wild Flower Society

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to the New England Wild Fower Society.  Established in 1900,...

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1999

Marco Polo Stufano

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented for his innovative planting ideas, inspiring the thousands who...

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1997

Dr. Ronald D. Parker

Distinguished Service Medal

Presented to Ronald D. Parker for his vision and perseverance in the...

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