Each year, the Colorado Nursery and Greenhouse Association accepts nominations for the Hall of Fame, Person of the Year and Horizon awards. These awards recognize the talent, leadership and up-and-comers in our industry. The CNGA Board of Directors reviews all of the nominations, votes on the recipients, and presents the awards at the Industry Celebration in February. This year, five CNGA members were recognized for their contributions.
Hall of Fame
Kent Broome, Baxter Nursery
The Hall of Fame Award is given to individuals who throughout their career have demonstrated leadership and commitment, and made contributions for the betterment of the industry as a whole. Kent has provided consistent and strong support of the industry and the association. He was instrumental in reviving the Grown In Colorado® trademark, as well as creating chapters and a stronger presence in New Mexico and Wyoming. He served on the CNGA Board of Directors from 2001 to 2011 and as the Board President in 2010 and 2011. He has been on the Japanese Beetle Steering Committee and ProGreen Board of Directors.
Person of the Year
Diana Reavis, Eason Horticultural Resources
The Person of the Year recipient is an individual who in the last 12 months has made a positive impact on the regional horticulture industry through their involvement, actions or participation in the promotion of professionalism, creativity and involvement for the betterment of the industry. Diana was recognized for her passion for the industry and promotion of Colorado horticulture. Her history in production and passion for plants make her a great ally for her customers, supporting their efforts to bring great horticulture to consumers. Reavis is a member of the CSU Trial Garden Committee, volunteers for Plant Select, and was a key member of the local committee for the Perennial Plant Association Conference in 2017.
Horizon Award
The Horizon Award is given to individuals who have been in the industry less than five years, exhibit the qualities and high standards exemplifying CNGA, and have made significant contributions to a CNGA firm.
Sarah Wong, CCNP, Emerald Leaf
Sarah was recognized for her accomplishments at Silver Sage Garden Center and her drive to further her education and learn. She’s involved with the association, became a Colorado Certified Nursery Professional (CCNP), and now volunteers to help others obtain their certification. She sits on the Communications Committee and writes articles for the LooseLeaf magazine.
Shannon Eversley, CCNP, & Alex Tisthammer, Fort Collins Nursery
Shannon and Alex are recognized for their contributions and success as members of a three-person outdoor management team. Their creativity and energy are part of what keeps local businesses moving forward. These two are continuously looking to learn and for more responsibility, which is imperative to the growth of an organization. They helped to restructure the outdoor management team to increase department functionality, and they have outstanding knowledge of plant material. They both have great attitudes and energy, and are able and willing to work in many different departments.
CHREF Auction Sets Record at Industry Celebration
Nearly 150 people attended CNGA’s annual Industry Celebration in conjunction with ProGreen EXPO in February. Not only did they enjoy a wonderful new venue at Rhein Haus Denver, they also opened their wallets to raise money to support the Colorado Horticulture Research & Education Foundation. Harmony Gardens was the successful bidder for Gus the Gnome, who fetched the highest bid ever! Thank you, Harmony Gardens Owner Todd Seufer!
