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

Julie Spear

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For her dedication to educating, mentoring, and inspiring others in...

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2023

Carole Bailey

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For her ability to combine her floral artistic talent with a passion for...

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2021

Sylvia Abbott

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

With deep appreciation for her inspirational talent and her devotion to...

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2019

Laura Haley

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For exceptional leadership in floral design as an educator, speaker, mentor...

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2018

Mary Jo Strawbridge

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

With gratitude to an inspiring teacher who generously shares her expertise...

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2017

Jane Godshalk

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For an enthusiastic, passionate, and generous teacher who continuously...

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2016

MaryEllen OBrien

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

With profound gratitude for her passionate commitment to every component of...

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2015

Martha McClellan

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For delightfully spreading the love of flower arranging through mentoring...

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2013

Bliss Clark

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Bliss Caulkins Clark, a dedicated mentor, inspiring teacher...

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2012

Bonny Martin

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

For heightening awareness of artistic and horticultural excellence through...

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2010

Lucinda Seale

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Lucinda Smith Seale. The recent growth and sophistication in...

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2009

Marty Van Allen

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Marty Van Allen, in recognition of enthusiastic dedication to...

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2008

Ruth Crocker

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Ruth Cox Crocker, exhibitor, editor and teacher...

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2007

Arabella Dane

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Arabella Dane, a woman of vision who formed the Flower...

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2006

Jane Morgan

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to:  Jane Morgan an Ikebana specialist and designer of...

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2005

Julie Lapham

Katharine Thomas Cary Medal

Presented to Julie Lapham for her talent in the fine art of flower...

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