2026 Awardees
The George Robert White Medal of Honor
Awarded for eminent service in horticulture in its broadest sense.
Sharon Loving, Chief Horticulture and Facilities Officer, Longwood Gardens (retired)
Keynote Speaker
Sharon Loving retired after 43 years at Longwood Gardens. In her position as Chief Horticulture and Facilities Officer, she led a staff of more than 70 employees who were responsible for producing and maintaining the world-renowned horticulture displays and landscapes on the 1,077 acres. She played a major role in the strategic direction of the organization including its vision for land stewardship, master planning capital improvement projects and the annually changing themes of seasonal displays and exhibits at Longwood.
The Thomas Roland Medal
Awarded for exceptional skill in horticulture and lectures.
Timothy M. Boland, Executive Director, Polly Hill Arboretum
The Gold Medal
Awarded for eminent horticultural accomplishments.
Page Dickey, Author and Lecturer; Director Emeritus, The Garden Conservancy
Richard G. Hawke, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Director of Ornamental Plant Research, Chicago Botanic Garden
The New Garden Society, Greater Boston
The Silver Medal
Awarded for noteworthy service in horticulture.
Joanne Caccavale, Riji; Director, Sogetsu Massachusetts Branch
Maurice F. Tougas, Tougas Family Farm
The R. Wayne Mezitt Medal
Presented to an emerging horticultural leader of exceptional accomplishment and potential.
Drew Schuyler, Assistant Head Gardener, Untermyer Gardens Conservancy
