Class of 2024 Graduation Celebration

Graduation is often symbolized by four-cornered caps and tassels in the air. For Master Gardener graduates, it is symbolized by a prized orange badge, a certificate of achievement, a bit of pomp and circumstance, and joining family and new friends for a graduation dinner. For the latter, graduates thoroughly dust off all the garden soil on their face and hands and briefly dispense with the real symbols of their passion – muddied boots, straw hats, bandanas, and jeans stained at the knees.

Looking back on my own first day of class, it was remarkable to realize that I had finally found those kindred spirits whose eyes lit up as soon as plants and gardening and soil became the common language. All Master Gardeners, whether long-standing MGs, or newly minted graduates, have felt awestruck as we encountered a deeper understanding of the impact we have on the web of life.

The Master Gardener program exists to educate graduates in the art and science of gardening. Importantly, the program’s additional goal is that Master Gardeners share their enhanced skills and knowledge of gardening and environmental issues with family and friends. As the saying goes, a single drop of water hitting a still pond makes many ripples radiating outwards – so too, each Master Gardener is a single drop that can touch many people.

The Jackson County Master Gardener Association heartily congratulates its recent graduates on the completion of the program! To our newest Master Gardeners, may you delight in the joy of lifelong learning and gardening! We hope you’ll remain active members and reap the benefits of volunteering in the organization to support our mission to educate and inspire others.

Congratulations!