James Edwards Earns Prestigious Gerry Donnelly Future Leader Award
July 18, 2024
Media Contact: Brea Cunningham, Associate Director of Communications
E-mail: bcunningham@minnetrista.net
Tel: 765.287.3525
Muncie, IN—Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is proud to announce that James Edwards, Associate Director of Horticulture, has been awarded the esteemed Gerry Donnelly Future Leader Award. Sponsored by the American Public Gardens Association's (APGA) Executive Garden Leaders Community, this award honors the legacy of Gerry Donnelly, who served as CEO of the Morton Arboretum for over three decades.
James Edwards has been a driving force in public horticulture for eight years, starting his career at Minnetrista as a Gardener and rising through the ranks to his current role. His journey has been marked by a commitment to creating access to horticulture and engaging the community through innovative and sustainable practices.
Recently, James attended the 2024 APGA Annual Conference, "Rooted in Resilience: A Sustainable Future for Gardens," held from June 24-27 in Boston, MA. Reflecting on this experience, James said, "The 2024 APGA Annual Conference was an expedition of learning and connection. One standout session, 'How We Failed Our Way to the Top,' illuminated the non-linear path to leadership, highlighting the valuable lessons learned from setbacks. What resonated most was the unity and camaraderie among attendees from diverse fields—development, programs, horticulture, finance, operations, and more—we found common ground and shared invaluable insights. This experience has broadened my perspective and energized me with fresh ideas to enhance the vibrant future of Minnetrista.”
At Minnetrista Museum and Gardens, we place a high value on the continuing education and professional development of our staff. Recognizing that the growth and success of our institution are intrinsically linked to the knowledge and skills of our team, we actively support and encourage participation in professional development opportunities. Minnetrista President and CEO, Brian Statz, provided a strong endorsement of James's nomination, highlighting his dedication and leadership. "James has consistently demonstrated his commitment through his diligent work and innovative approaches not only on our campus but throughout our community. His passion for creative problem-solving and steadfast commitment to personal and professional growth distinguish him as a leader here at Minnetrista," he said. “By empowering our staff to attend workshops, conferences, and educational programs, we ensure that our team stays at the forefront of industry trends and best practices.”
Our commitment to professional development not only enhances individual career trajectories but also empowers our organization to innovate and excel in delivering exceptional experiences to our community. With the knowledge and insights gained from the conference, James brings back invaluable expertise to Minnetrista. His experiences will further our pursuit of enhancing the community’s access to horticulture and fostering sustainable practices.
James Edwards’s award is a testament to his potential for leadership and his unwavering dedication to the field of public horticulture. Minnetrista Museum & Gardens looks forward to the positive impact of James's continued contributions and leadership.
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Minnetrista is your year-round gathering place! Born out of the Ball family legacy, the home of the Ball jar, Minnetrista connects people, encourages engagement, and improves our community. There is always something new to discover at Minnetrista. From beautiful gardens, unique events, interactive exhibits, and engaging workshops, every adventure is unique and fun. For more information about Minnetrista, visit www.minnetrista.net.
