News Published: 12 December 2024

The Garden Club of America (GCA) and Botanic Gardens Conservation International-US (BGCI-US) are proud to announce the three recipients of the 2024 The Keller Scholarship in Conservation Horticulture: Abigail Jones, Annica Wu and Gracianne Young. These young scholars were selected for their exceptional dedication to plant conservation. Each scholar received up to $5,000 to pursue research and experiential learning at leading botanical institutions across the U.S in 2024.

Abigail Jones, a student at the University of Texas-Austin majoring in Biology-Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, returned for a second summer at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. She contributed to the inventory of the living plant collections by comparing pre-existing records with current plant data. Her work ensures the Center maintains accurate records, which are essential for ongoing plant conservation and cultivation efforts.

Annica Wu, a junior studying Plant Science at California Polytechnic State University, spent her summer at the Morton Arboretum where she gained knowledge in urban forestry, herbaria, and public programming. She participated in programs such as ArbNet and the Chicago Region Trees Initiative, contributing to urban tree research and community outreach.

Gracianne Young, a sophomore at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa majoring in Natural Resource and Environmental Management, conducted her research at the Lyon Arboretum Seed Conservation Lab. Her project focused on the climate adaptation and germination response of native Hawaiian plants, including endangered genera such as Schiedea, Cyanea, and Silene. Her findings will aid reintroduction efforts by developing optimal germination protocols crucial for the survival of these species under changing climate conditions.

The Keller Scholarship, established in 2020 by Kathy and David Keller, aims to foster a new generation of leaders in plant conservation by offering students invaluable hands-on experience and access to BGCI-US resources. These scholars represent the future of conservation horticulture, working toward safeguarding plant biodiversity for future generations.

Applications for the Keller Scholarship are accepted annually. Applications must be submitted electronically or sent by mail to be received at GCA Headquarters in New York City by January 15 of each year. Please note: only one GCA scholarship, fellowship or award may be applied for annually.