Local Master Gardeners Honored at Annual Illinois Conference

UPDATE: Local volunteers from the Will County Master Gardeners received prestigious recognition at the 2025 University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Conference, held on September 4-5, 2025, in Springfield, Illinois. This year’s event marked the 50th anniversary of the Master Gardener program, emphasizing the critical role these volunteers play in their communities.

The conference celebrated the Master Gardener Awards, highlighting outstanding contributions in three categories: Outstanding, Teamwork, and Sustained Excellence. Only 1% to 2% of volunteers statewide achieve this honor, underscoring the significance of the recognition.

According to Nancy Kuhajda, Extension horticulture educator, “Local Master Gardener volunteers are helping others learn to grow and are making a significant difference.” She emphasized that these dedicated individuals not only enhance education but also work tirelessly to improve natural resources for pollinators and provide fresh produce to their communities.

This year, Merry Jo Montgomery of Wilmington was awarded the Outstanding Master Gardener Award for her exceptional creativity and leadership in launching the Mill Race pollinator garden. Montgomery has also developed innovative educational tools, such as a quilted worm and fabric lima bean models, to engage learners.

Additionally, the Teamwork Award was presented to Amy Stewart of Joliet and Sue Gregory of Shorewood for their leadership of the Joliet Central and Joliet West high school garden clubs. These clubs have emerged as the largest non-sport clubs at both schools, inspiring teens—many of whom had little gardening experience—to acquire valuable skills.

The conference included workshops, garden tours, and a keynote address focused on creating gardens that engage all five senses. A panel of former Extension staff shared insights into the program’s rich history and ongoing impact across Illinois.

“It’s been five decades since this program’s purposeful start and mission to help others learn to grow,” stated Candice Anderson, state Master Gardener specialist. “Over the years, this program has grown more than just plants; it has built strong relationships that continue to connect communities.”

For those interested in learning more about the impactful Master Gardener program, visit extension.illinois.edu/mg. This recognition not only highlights the achievements of local volunteers but also serves as a reminder of the vital role community engagement plays in fostering educational growth and environmental stewardship.