Janet M. Poor

 

Years: 

1929–2017

Year Hutchinson Medal awarded:

1994

Poor was a transformative figure in American horticulture, integrating design, conservation science, and global collaboration. Under her leadership as board chair, the Chicago Botanic Garden rose to international prominence through seed banking, scientific research, and public education. Her publications and advocacy continue to guide gardeners and conservators toward biodiversity stewardship and the preservation of plant heritage.

Key contributions:

  • Founded a landscape design business in Winnetka, Illinois, around 1975
  • Led conservation and research initiatives as president/board chair of the Chicago Botanic Garden
  • Instrumental in the Garden’s participation in the Millennium Seed Bank Project, gathering seeds of endangered plant species into international storage
  • Championed the creation of the Daniel F. & Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center, opened in 2009 to support global plant science
  • Championed international plant conservation alongside the Garden Club of America, aligning with the Endangered Species Act
  • Fostered global research partnerships with institutions like BLM, Northwestern University, and organizations focused on threatened flora
  • Held key roles in major horticultural organizations:
    • Vice President, Garden Club of America
    • Vice Chair, Board of Trustees, Center for Plant Conservation
    • Chair, “Open Days” program for the Garden Conservancy (1989–2000)
    • Advisor at Filoli (CA), Winterthur (DE), McKee Botanical Garden (FL)
    • On boards of the American Horticultural Society and U.S. National Arboretum

Awards & Honors:

Received numerous accolades, including:

  • Catherine H. Sweeney Award, American Horticultural Society
  • Creative Leadership Award & Medal of Honor, Garden Club of America (1994)