The Annual Meeting and Pin Party on December 7, 2025 brought us together to recognize achievements, reconnect with fellow Master Gardeners, and celebrate our newly Certified Master Gardeners. The Pin Party is always a meaningful reminder of the learning, dedication, and camaraderie that grows our program.
We extend our sincere thanks to Madeline Flahive Di Nardo, Reggie Atkins, Pat Paul, Joanne Krueger, our mentors, and volunteers whose guidance and support made this milestone possible. And a big thanks to those who planned the party and everyone who brought toys and food pantry donations.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025
| Teryl Brown-Monderoy* Norma Cherilus Pat Collins* Kendra Day Victoria DeLeo Erin Eckard* Craig Engler David Fundalski | Bob Gambardella Janine Graf-Kirk* Christopher Haverlock* Ryan Jendrek* Lori Klebous Sandy Martinelli* Connie Mayo* Csilla Molnar | Helen Raczkowski* Nathaniel Roots Karen Rose* Craig Rosenthal* Michaela Rupp* Jason Saffer Sarah Schaefer* Marvin Yanez |
| *Newly Certified |
Newly Certified in 2025 from Prior Classes
| Mike Brandman Marty Erman Carol Faillace Marnix Godschalk Carmen Haydee Lebron | Izzy Julio Mary Kittle Emil Manfredonia Michael Mittelsdorf Sandy Morrow |
Hours of Service Awards
| 500 Hours Dianne Borman Claudia Cuca Arlen Rosen Nina Rosenstein John Torriero Tito Venter | 1,000 Hours Sue Podolak Richard Greenstein | 3,000 Hours Terry Moore 13,000 Hours Joanne Krueger |
Anniversary Awards
| 10 Years Billie Baron Mary Blacklock Diane Borman Dennis Lenahan Deborah Meslar Carol Skrocki Diane Torrens | 20 Years Susan Thomson 30 Years James Keane |
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 next 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 mastergardeners@ucnj.org.