Member News
MAA’ s Executive Director, Virginia Wood( above photo, far right) participated in a panel discussion featuring women from diverse horticultural careers who shared their experiences, insights, and perspectives on the future of the green industry. The well-attended program, held at Long Hill in Beverly, MA, was moderated by Joann Vieira, the Trustees Director of Public Gardens & Horticulture. Other“ women shaping the world of horticulture” included Lucinda Brockway, Senior Managing Director for Cultural Resources, The Trustees; Jen Kettell, BCMA, Consulting Arborist, Radiant Leaf Consulting; Erika Rumbley, Director of Horticulture, Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum; and Sarah Shank, Head Propagator, Arnold Arboretum.
Representing the third generation of family management of Bartlett Tree Experts, Robert A. Bartlett, Jr. was awarded the Elizabeth Medal of Honour by the Royal Horticulture Society, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to advancing the science and practice of arboriculture, as well as his continued support of horticultural research and education on an international scale.
Robert A. Bartlett Jr. is the first American to receive the Elizabeth Medal of Honour, established in 2023 in perpetual remembrance of the late Queen Elizabeth II’ s reign. The medal enables the RHS Council to confer conspicuous honor on international horticulturalists and UK-non-horticulturalists that have significantly impacted the advancement of the science, art or practice of horticulture for the benefit of all generations and the environment. In recognition of Her Majesty’ s 70-year reign, only 70 medals may be held at any one time.
Excerpted from Lawn & Landscape magazine. Thank You MAA
June 23, 2026
I wanted to thank you for all your work to make the Millborn Farm opening such a resounding success. It was a very special day, and the Massachusetts Arborists Association was a wonderful partner.
The property was alive with activity all day. We estimated a total of 800-1,000 visitors attended the opening.
Russell’ s comments before leading the tree planting ceremony were perfect. Everyone clearly understood the significance of the Winter King hawthorn tree planting, and it was fun to see people get into shoveling the dirt!
The MAA activities in the afternoon were a real hit— my team heard lots of visitors speaking enthusiastically about the tree walks, ask the arborists’ advice and tree climbing demonstrations.
The professionalism, organizational skills and preparation of your member volunteers shone throughout the day and made people feel so welcome, particularly those who were unfamiliar with the MAA.
We are so appreciative of our partnership with the MAA and look forward to wonderful programs ahead.
All best.
D. A. Hayden Regional Vice President- MetroWest The Trustees
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