Awarded Landscapes
The Florida Native Plant Society recognizes outstanding landscapes that showcase the beauty, ecological value, and sustainability of Florida’s native plants.
Explore past award recipients by year below.
2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Pre-2020
2025 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
2024 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
2023 Winners
| Photo | Year | Award | Location | Project Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
2023 | Award of Excellence | Sun City Center | Sun City Center Audubon Club |
 |
2023 | Award of Excellence | Winter Park | Tarflower Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society |
 |
2023 | Award of Excellence | Miami-Dade County | Miami- Dade County Parks Recreation and Open Spaces Department |
 |
2023 | Award of Excellence | Ft. Myers | Mark Miller |
2022 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
2021 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
2020 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
Pre-2020 Winners
| Name | Chapter | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andre Clewell | Magnolia |
2025 | TBD |
| Steve Woodmansee | Dade |
2025 | TBD |
| Ginny Stibolt | Ixia | 2024 | Ginny's lifetime of service to FNPS and native plants embodies the spirit of this award. Her dedication, expertise, and advocacy have helped shape our organization's mission and have contributed to the preservation and celebration of Florida's rich botanical heritage. ?. |
| Marlene Rodak | Coccoloba | 2024 | The impact Marlene has had on the Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) can not be overstated. She is a powerhouse! Since becoming our president she has taken us from monthly meetings and scattered outreach events to partnerships with Koreshan State Park, Lee County's Department of Environmental Services, the City of Bonita Springs, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), and the Village of Estero. These collaborations are enabling us to develop a multifaceted program to inspire and educate the public about native plants and their importance. |
| Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sward |
Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Jackie Sward has been a member of the Florida Native Plant Society since and a member of the Tarflower Chapter since 1998. Ms. Sward was elected Treasurer of the Chapter from 2006 to 2007. Even though she only served a short time as Treasurer, Ms. Sward has trained every Tarflower treasurer to the present day. Her extensive knowledge of the Federal and Florida tax laws, Charitable organizations, and banking requirements has served the chapter well. Ms. Sward also took on Publicity Chair functions ensuring all monthly meetings and events were well publicized in local media as well coordinating food provided at each monthly meeting since 2008. |
| Susan Carr, PhD | Paynes Prairie | 2023 | Dr. Susan Carr is a respected and dedicated botanist who has made significant contributions to the field of native plant conservation in Florida. She has over 20 years of experience working with native plants, and her expertise is widely sought after by other scientists, land managers, and the general public. Dr. Carr is a passionate advocate for native plants, and she has been instrumental in the development of several successful conservation programs. She is also a gifted educator, and she has shared her knowledge of native plants with countless students and adults through her teaching, writing, and public presentations. |
| Chris Matson | Cuplet Fern | 2023 | Chris routinely works with FNPS members across the park and on rescues, teaching and supporting them, and inspiring them to their own rescue, restoration, and propagation work across Central Florida, which is a better place thanks to his mentorship of so many. |
| Eric Menges, PhD | South Ridge | 2021 | In his time at Archbold, Eric's work has increased greatly our understanding of the ecology of Florida scrub vegetation, the population biology and demography of numerous rare and endemic scrub plants, fire ecology, conservation biology, and scrub restoration. Eric has mentored student interns, graduate students, post-doctoral students, and research associates in producing a body of work reflected in more than 150 publications. Many of his students and associates have gone on to successful careers in universities, colleges, and agencies. |
| Craig Huegel | Pinellas | 2020 | Craig's long history as an advocate, educator, scientist and author working to advance the conservation and appreciation of native plants has distinguished him as a mentor to the FNPS membership. In 1987, he co-founded the Cooperative Urban Wildlife Program while serving as a member of the faculty at the University of Florida. Craig also teaches courses in plant science at St. Petersburg College, manages a native nursery, consults, and is a popular speaker. |
| Roger Hammer, PhD | Dade | 2019 | For his wonderful books, and mentoring of FNPS members. He is the only Florida botanist in the Society that we know of to have been granted an honorary PhD. |
| Shirley Denton, PhD | Suncoast | 2018 | Awarded for her service and dedication to FNPS, her infinite patience and generosity in sharing her expertise, time, and talents with the Society and our members. |
| Sonya Guidry | Pawpaw | 2017 | Few people have more selflessly devoted themselves to the Florida Native Plant Society than Sonya Guidry, who contributes thousands of hours of volunteer work on the society's behalf every year. A long-standing member of the Pawpaw Chapter, she served as one of its first presidents, from 1994-1995. More than twenty years later, her hand still is frequently the first to go up when a volunteer is needed and she is just as frequently the last person to go home. |
| Carmel VanHoek | Suncoast | 2015 | Camel is always willing and eager to impart her knowledge to others on field trips and at membership meetings. Her energy and enthusiasm is inspiring to beginning botanists and more advanced ones alike. She has mentored many people including most recently, Bunny Worth and Janet Bowers. |
| Dan Miller | Magnolia | 2014 | Awarded for over 30 years of service including tireless promotion of native plants and native plant conservation and service to his chapter that includes outreach and education. |
| Catherine Bowman | Tarflower | 2014 | Awarded for mentorship of an intern. Beyond this, she has a long history of service to her chapter and to the Society including including the mentoring of many of her chapter members, tirelessly serving in the leadership of her chapter including a long stint as Tarflower President, implementing an award winning landscape project of her urban home, and many other things. |
| Nancy Bissett | Heartland | 2013 | Awarded for over 30 years of promoting the use of native plants in landscaping supporting land protection and acquisition, pioneering and supporting the restoration of native landscapes after mining, developing innovative techniques to facilitate restoration, being a strong and capabile botanist, and sharing her knowledge with her fellow FNPS members. |
| Anne Cox, PhD | Conradina | 2010 | Awarded for her longterm leadership in FNPS including establishment of the Land Management Partners Committee, coordination with land management agencies and FNAI, and mentoring of FNPS leaders at all levels. |
| Mike Kenton | Serenoa | 2007 | Mike Kenton served the society and the Association of Florida Native Nurseries for many years, inspiring the public to use natives in landscaping, inspiring landscapers to use natives, being a nurseryman, and supporting FNPS and its members. Note: Mike is shown with Karen Frahley a friend and fellow nursery owner. The photo was taken shortly before his death. |
| Richard Wunderlin, PhD | Suncoast | 2005 | For his many years of service to FNPS, his wonderful taxonomic books for Florida, for the ISB website, and for mentoring innumerable FNPS members and students. |
| Henry Whittier | Tarflower | 2002 | None. |
| Taylor Alexander, PhD | Dade | 2002 | Taylor Alexander was an out-standing botanist and plant ecologist, and an early explorer in Everglades science. He contributed to our understanding of the Everglades centered around the effects of various environmental factors, notably fire and hydrology on plant community succession. |
| Bill Partington | Tarflower | 2000 | One of the founders of FNPS, its first president, and first executive director. He was a tireless supporter of a native plant society that would forward the conservation of native plants in Florida and educate the public about those plants. |
| Joyce Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Don Gann | Dade | 2000 | None. |
| Dick Deuerling | Tarflower | 1998 | For sharing his knowledge for FNPS resources for many years. |
| Marjorie Carr | Paynes Prairie | 1997 | Awarded shortly after her death. Marjorie Harris Carr was known for her conservation work in Florida. She co-founded the Alachua Audubon Society in 1960 and co-founded Florida Defenders of the Environment in 1969. She fought to preserve the Ocklawaha River and helped halt construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which is named in her honor. |
| Margaret Hames | At Large | 1996 | Former Legislative/Conservation Committee Chairperson for FNPS, and foremost conservationist in FL, voted Person of the Year by Florida Environments magazine for her environmental activism. |
