Karen Cogar Abramson, The Hunting Creek Garden Club
A graphic designer and painter, Karen has won the Gold Ribbon for best in show at three national daffodil conventions. An American Daffodil Society judge since 2005, she generously shares her talents and expertise on growing daffodils and roses, as well as staging specimens for shows and writing schedules. Karen’s fellow members admire her exotic specimens and her leadership in many prestigious roles held in her club, as well as in the Washington Daffodil Society and the ADS.
Jane W. Hammond, Dolley Madison Garden Club
Jane’s childhood passion for horticulture and her continued interest and education led to a successful, sustainable food farm and leadership in the Charlottesville Local Food Hub, providing nutritious food to many. Her teaching workshops share this expertise with area clubs. An active grower and shower in GCV horticulture shows, North American Lily Society, American Daffodil Society and Garden Club of America, Jane has garnered many awards for her excellent work.
Phyllis Ripper, Rivanna Garden Club
Phyllis combines her passion for horticulture with her keen interest in conservation and community service. She designed and managed the creation of a garden at Blue Ridge Juvenile Detention, which received the 2015 GCV Common Wealth Award. With her husband she has planted and maintains hundreds of trees and shrubs on their farm to enhance the land and to serve as riparian buffers. Phyllis maintains the club’s 50-plus-year-old lilac collection.
