ABS National Awards

ABS National Awards

The ABS National Awards Program was instituted in 1945, and recognizes individuals whose activities have benefited the Society in many ways.

The Herbert P. Dyckman Award for Service is presented to a member who has rendered long-term or very outstanding service for the American Begonia Society above and beyond the normal duties of a member or officer.

The Eva Kenworthy Gray Award is given for contributing original material toward helping the rank and file members further their study of begonias.

The Alfred D. Robinson Medal of Honor is for a Begonia cultivar that has been released for at least five years. This cultivar must be registered with the ABS Cultivar Registrar, widely distributed, and the originator of the Begonia must be a member of the American Begonia Society. This award may be won more than once by a hybridizer.

The Rudolf Ziesenhenne Award is presented to an editor who collects and edits the works of others for a publication either the U.S. or international and:

1. Who encourages a broad array of writers both scientific and practical to write and contribute articles.
2. Who issues a publication on begonias that is both excellent in design and content and which contributes to our knowledge and appreciation of begonias.

The Marge Lee Award is given to a person who contributes something of spiritual value toward cementing goodwill and harmony among members.

The Gene Salisbury Award is given to a grower who exemplifies the very best in cultural practice and shares their careful work of new species and hybrids. These are growers who contribute to our society simply through their excellence in growing begonias.

The Charles Jaros Award is a Lifetime Achievement Award given to a member who over decades has contributed to ABS through selfless support to growers and members by sharing extensive and comprehensive knowledge of Begonia and also leading by example with positive regard for all, whether they be new or experienced growers, new or long-time members of ABS. The recipient of this award has further uniquely contributed to ABS in a number of other ways, such as bringing new species into cultivation, taking ABS leadership roles, attending ABS gatherings, and/or supporting other members for greater involvement with ABS.

Award Nominations

Nominations and awards are made every year. The nominator may either submit a nomination by email or postal mail, with one nomination per letter. The nomination must include the name of the award and reasons this member should be so honored. Complete information about making nominations is included annually in The Begonian.

Contact the Chair of the Awards Committee for more information.

ABS National Award Winners