American Horticultural Society Welcomes Five New Board Members

Jennifer Zurko

The American Horticultural Society (AHS) announced the addition of five esteemed professionals to its Board of Directors. These new members, hailing from five states, bring a wealth of horticultural expertise and leadership experience to the organization, positioning AHS to further enhance its impact on the gardening community and the health of individuals, communities and the planet.

The new board members are:

• Kathryn Acerbo-Bachmann (Acton, Massachusetts): Founder of Experience Creation marketing firm with over 20 years of experience in nonprofits, museums and horticulture
• Dr. James P. Folsom (Eastpoint, Florida): Former Director of the Botanical Gardens at The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens; 2020 AHS Liberty Hyde Bailey Award Winner
• Panayoti Kelaidis (Denver, Colorado): Director of Outreach for the Denver Botanic Gardens; 2003 AHS Liberty Hyde Bailey Award Winner
• Christian Primeau (Cortland Manor, New York): Former Manager of the New York Botanical Garden with 22 years of experience in nonprofit public gardens
• Bryant Smith (Baltimore, Maryland): CEO of the Baltimore Tree Trust, with over 30 years of experience in urban forestry

“We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional individuals to our Board of Directors,” said Suzanne Laporte, President and CEO of AHS. “Their collective expertise and passion for horticulture will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and inspire Americans to become confident gardeners. Their diverse backgrounds and proven leadership will help guide AHS into a new era of growth and innovation.” GT