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60th Anniversary Gala
May 15, 2026
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From protecting native plants to inspiring generations of visitors, the Garden continues to grow because of you. Join us for an evening of celebration as we honor what we’ve accomplished and share our vision for the future: where science, engagement, and conservation come together with purpose and possibility.
Honorary Chairs
Ritch & Susan Allison
Frank & Ellen Proctor
Mike & Melissa Raley
Gala Fundraising Focus
Help us enhance the Display Gardens with dynamic new outdoor educational displays and engaging signage designed to inspire, inform, and elevate every visitor’s experience. Your gifts will transform a walk through the Garden into a journey of discovery, ensuring that every visitor gains a stronger connection to plants, a deeper understanding of conservation, and a lasting sense of purpose.
Auction Items
Weekend get-away package at Villa Pinea
Relax in a mid-century modern home designed by architect Terry Waugh located in12-acres of forest on the edge of Chapel Hill. This four-day/three-night package includes Carolina Performing Arts tickets for two, Carolina Basketball tickets for two, a charcuterie board for 6-8 people, and spirits and brew from Mother Earth Brewing.
Live like a Parisian on the Left Bank
Enjoy a week-long stay in a charming Paris apartment located on Rue du Cherche Midi in the heart of the 6th arrondissement. This Paris flat includes one bedroom and two bathrooms, with a double Murphy bed in the living room. It sleeps up to four people. Airfare not included.
Sculpture in the Garden package
Invite your friends to join you on a small group (up to six people) studio tour and pottery demonstration by internationally-renowned Chatham County artist Mark Hewitt. This package also includes a Mark Hewitt vase, a landscape consultation from Rachel’s Native Plants, and a one-night stay at the Fearrington Inn among the native plant gardens of Fearrington Village.
Birds and Botany in the Sandhills field trip
Gather 8-10 folks to follow New Hope Bird Alliance Director Tom Driscoll and American Botanist Bruce Sorrie for an exciting and educational day trip to see and learn about the birds, flora, and fauna who call the Sandhills home. Picnic lunch provided.
Planning Committee
Gail Perry
Jordan Barratt
Betsy Bennett
May Bryan
Virginia Buysse
Melanie Christian
Eliza Cook
Helen Frankstone
Kim Fraser
Pat Holder
Katherine Kopp
Mia Pizzagalli
Sue Plambeck
Liza Roberts
Event Hosts
Longleaf
Anne Harris
Alice & John May
Frank & Ellen Proctor
Magnolia
Ritch & Susan Allison
Rufus & Linda Edmisten
Gene & Pat Holder
Kate & Jeff Hedges
Jeff Mason
Sue & Charles Plambeck
Jennifer & Al Runquist
Phyllis Thomas & Alan Curtis
Damon Waitt
Sassafras
Betsy & Walter Bennett
Melanie & Lynch Christian
Becky & Munroe Cobey
Cindy & Tom Cook
Rus & Dixie Hapgood
Nicholas & Amy Penwarden
Gail Perry & Bill Cobb
Mia Pizzagalli & Ken Shelton
Mike & Melissa Raley
Dogwood
Mike & Mary Andrews
Paula Noell & Palmer Page
Sims Preston & Olympia Stone
Kader & Margaret Ramsey
Carol Tresolini & Tom Fiore
For information on becoming an Event Host see this link or contact Stephen Keith at 919-962-9458.
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