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