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

Sir Peter Crane

Medal of Honor

For his substantial contributions to horticulture, botany, and biology.

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2023

Roy Diblik

Medal of Honor

For being a leader in the New Perennial Movement who has changed the...

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2022

William (Ned) Friedman

Medal of Honor

Presented to William Edward Friedman for his research on the evolution of...

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2020

Gregory Long

Medal of Honor

In recognition of his dynamic leadership and innovative vision, which...

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2019

Piet Oudolf

Medal of Honor

In recognition of his revolutionary genius, designing gardens that paint...

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2018

Chipper Wichman

Medal of Honor

In recognition of his visionary leadership of the National Tropical...

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2017

Alice Walton

Medal of Honor

In recognition of her vision to celebrate the American spirit at Crystal...

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2016

Diane Ragone

Medal of Honor

In recognition of her contributions to conservation, agricultural...

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2015

Dorrance H. Hamilton

Medal of Honor

For her sustained commitment to the preservation of American landscapes and...

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2014

Will Raap

Medal of Honor

For his life's work of innovative thinking, integrating business...

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2013

The American Chestnut Foundation

Medal of Honor

Presented to The American Chestnut Foundation for outstanding dedication to...

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2011

Diana Fish

Medal of Honor

For seeking the unique knowledge of expert gardeners and imparting it in...

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2010

Peter J. Olin

Medal of Honor

For his service to horticulture and his commitment to connecting people...

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2009

Robert and Kate Bartlett

Medal of Honor

For their enhancement and preservation of horticulture through scientific...

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2008

Dr. Steven Still

Medal of Honor

Horticultural educator, who taught at both Kansas State & Ohio State...

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2007

James Folsom

Medal of Honor

Horticulturist, botanist, educator, author, leader and visionary. The...

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