The Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County celebrated their 36th annual Volunteer Recognition ceremony on September 29, 2024, honoring the remarkable achievements of their dedicated volunteers who continue to enrich the Union County community through their horticultural expertise and service.

Bette Jane Kowalski, Union County Commissioner, opened the Awards Ceremony. Commissioner Kowalski has served on the Union County Board of County Commissioners since 2004.

US Presidential Service Awards

Thirteen members received the Bronze award recognition for their outstanding service of 100-249 hours of service in Calendar Year 2023, demonstrating the program’s continued vitality and dedication to community enrichment. Bridget Mracek earned the Silver Award for contributing between 250-499 hours, while Patricia Paul received the Gold Award for dedicating over 500 hours of service.

State Master Gardener Award for Excellence

The Rain Garden Renovation Team was recognized for their collaborative efforts in environmental conservation, while Kathleen Murray received an individual Award of Excellence for her outstanding contributions to the program.

Welcome to the Class of 2024

Twenty-six enthusiastic new members joined the ranks of the Master Gardeners program: Ernestina Almeida, Mary Kittle, Caitlin Anderson, Alexander Antonelli, Alice Li, Hillary Magnanini, Mike Brandman, Michael Mittelsdorf, Kathleen Cryan, Sandra Morrow, Carol Deminski, David Raymond, Carole Driscoll, Richard Rocchini, Marty Erman, Lien-Lung Sheu, Carol Faillace, Kyle Stamey, Monique Fields, Steven Suede, Marnix Godschalk, Elizabeth Talmont, Melanie Holliday, Deborah Thomas, Izzy Julio, and Carl Whitaker.

Newly Certified Master Gardeners

Twenty members achieved their Master Gardener certification: Kerri Bacall, Melanie Holliday, John Boyle, David Lukenbach, Christina Caprario-Vittor, Monica McGovern, Carol Deminski, James Shanahan, Jessica D’Incontro, Kyle Stamey, Deborah Durand, Elizabeth Talmont, Patricia Fiamingo, Laurie Tham, Cheryl Eagan, Deborah Thomas, Linda Foreman, Linoy Thomas, Lan Ge, Jane McClellan and George Williams.

Certificate of Appreciation

Nicole Sensenbach, an undergraduate student at Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, was recognized for her creation of outstanding educational signs for the Demonstration Garden at Trailside Nature and Science Center.

Hours of Service Milestones

Four members achieved the 500-hour milestone: Jim Koneski, Jayne Graepel, Deborah Murphy, and Michael Girouard. Aurum Insigne and Patricia Paul reached 1,000 hours of service, Aurum Insigne “Gold Membership” status, while Jane Maniello attained 2,500 hours. Bridget Mracek achieved an exceptional 3,000 hours of service.

Anniversary Awards

Seven members celebrated their 10-year anniversary: Magali Felix, Vera Figueirdo, Teresa Gibbons, Eleanor Peris, Debra Stuart, Diane Thompson, and Diane Voight. Four members marked 20 years of service: Cindy Coppa, Lisa Florio, Gayle Jones, and Sharon Pryor. Katherine Sabatino achieved the remarkable milestone of 30 years with the program.

The Wesley Philo Award for Volunteer Excellence

The organization’s highest honor was presented to Laurie Westra of the Class of 2011. With over 1,116 volunteer hours, Westra has distinguished herself through her leadership of the “Gardening with Children” committee and dedication to the Rose Garden team. Her work has brought the joy of gardening to hundreds of children through summer camp programs and school visits at the Trailside Science and Nature Center.

Community Impact

The Master Gardeners program, operated through Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County, continues to serve as a vital resource for horticultural education and community service. Their work at the Demonstration Garden, public education programs, and various community initiatives demonstrates the ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community enrichment that has defined the organization for over three decades.

For information about joining the 2025 Master Gardeners program, visit https://njaes.rutgers.edu/master-gardeners/. To learn more about community initiatives or the Master Gardener program in Union County, contact the Rutgers Cooperative Extension office at 908-654-9854. For gardening questions, call our Garden Helpline at 908-654-9852 or email [email protected].