FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bruce Gatling-Austin Receives Prestigious Garden Club of America Hull Award for Environmental Education
Charlottesville, VA (June 18, 2026) – Botanical Garden of the Piedmont is proud to announce that Bruce Gatling-Austin has been awarded the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award, one of the Garden Club of America’s highest honors recognizing excellence in environmental education for children.
Established in 1992, the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award recognizes an individual who has inspired children under the age of 16 to appreciate the beauty and fragility of our planet through horticulture and environmental education. The award honors those whose dedication, leadership, and service have fostered a lasting connection between young people and the natural world.
Bruce Gatling-Austin was selected for his exceptional accomplishments and lifelong commitment to nurturing environmental stewardship in future generations. Through his leadership and educational efforts, he has shared not only knowledge, but also a deep appreciation for nature that has positively impacted countless children, families, and community members throughout the Charlottesville region and beyond.
“This is truly a lifetime achievement award,” said Catherine Bolton of the Albemarle Garden club during the presentation. “Bruce’s legacy of care, vision, and service embodies the very spirit of the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award.”
As a retired elementary school teacher, Bruce has developed all of Botanical Garden of the Piedmont’s programs to meet Standards of Learning requirements, making it easier for schools to visit the Garden and participate in its programming. This is one of the many ways Bruce has played a pivotal role in advancing the Garden’s mission of connecting people with nature through education, conservation, and community engagement. His work has helped create opportunities for thousands of young people to explore, learn from, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.
Botanical Garden of the Piedmont extends its heartfelt congratulations to Bruce Gatling-Austin and gratitude to the Albemarle Garden Club and the Garden Club of America for recognizing his extraordinary contributions to environmental education.