Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum

Language shapes how we see the natural world, including the names we give to plants. In the latest Roots and Reach podcast, MBGNA’s Katie Seguin sits down with plant records expert Jaime Frye, Associate Curator of Living Collections at Newfields a Place for Nature & The Arts to discuss how some common plant names can perpetuate outdated or harmful language. Jaime coauthored the report Potentially Problematic Common Names in North American Public Gardens, and this episode dives into the challenges and opportunities in making plant nomenclature more inclusive. Listen to the conversation at this link: myumi.ch/bE9xj

Stop by and visit the MBGNA table!

NOW HIRING SUMMER INTERNS! Calling all current college and university students! MBGNA is excited to announce a wide variety of paid internship opportunities! We're looking for enthusiastic changemakers to join our team. Our internships offer flexibility in length, hours, and focus, and span 19 diverse job categories. Whether you're interested in education, horticulture, community outreach, or something else, there's likely a perfect fit for you at MBGNA. Learn more and apply at: https://lnkd.in/ehD_85EQ Image description: Four MBGNA interns in maize t-shirts, crouched down among plants, pointing at the viewer with smiles

As we close out 2024, we reflect on the amazing progress made at Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. From planting thousands of native species to addressing food insecurity through Campus Farm, the past year was filled with growth, collaboration, and community. Looking ahead, 2025 promises even more exciting strides in sustainability, biodiversity, and environmental education. Together, we will continue cultivating a future where nature and community thrive. Read a message from our director, Anthony Kolenic, as he shares his reflections and excitement for the year ahead at myumi.ch/JweEE

We’re so grateful to have passionate team members like Mary contributing to the work we do at MBGNA.

At MBGNA, we believe every child deserves the chance to explore, discover, and connect with the natural world. Yet, for many schools, barriers like transportation and funding stand in the way. Through initiatives like our Title I school field trips, we’re working to change that — providing immersive, nature-based experiences that inspire environmental stewardship and a sense of belonging. Check out this conversation with Liz Glynn, our Education Lead, on how field trips and community partnerships are creating meaningful change: https://myumi.ch/dA4dN Image description: A teen reaches up and touches a pine branch while smiling

We were delighted to host the Detroit Zoo Conservation Interns at Matthaei Botanical Gardens! This program empowers high school students from the greater Detroit area to explore environmental issues, environmental justice, and community collaborations to become environmental stewards and leaders for the future. These teens are building skills and connections in the green industry while earning wages that value their time and talents. During their visit, the interns collected data on rare plants in our conservatory, using the IUCN Red List to analyze geographic ranges, habitats, and threats. They also sketched plant characteristics and brainstormed actionable conservation strategies, contributing to a growing body of knowledge that will inform future workshops and initiatives. Programs like this are vital for nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders and ensuring the green industry is more inclusive and equitable.

We're hiring a K-12 Education Program Specialist! This part-time, 10-month temporary role provides the chance to inspire young minds through engaging environmental education and hands-on learning experiences. The position is primarily onsite in Ann Arbor with some remote flexibility. If you’re passionate about teaching, nature, and sustainability, we encourage you to apply! Details at: myumi.ch/7PDJ5

We’re excited to share Earth Song, a student-curated Black Nature Walk at Nichols Arboretum. This exhibit, developed by students in Professor Bénédicte Boisseron’s Black Ecologies course, showcases nature poems by eleven Black authors. The poems, laser-engraved on wood panels, guide visitors through a reflective journey on the intersections of race, history, and the environment. Opening October 16th, Earth Song invites a deeper exploration of Black ecology and the often-overlooked histories that shape our natural spaces. Learn more about this meaningful project and the student curators' vision here: myumi.ch/VGZeg myumi.ch/VGZeg

Yesterday was a special day at MBGNA as we honored the generosity of Theodore Maged in a touching tribute to his late wife, Kimberly. In memory of Kimberly and in recognition of their shared love for nature, we are proud to announce that two spaces have been named in their honor: the Kimberly Maged Perennial Garden and the Kimberly and Theodore Maged Tropical House. Read more about this heartfelt dedication in our latest blog post: myumi.ch/3Q1d3 Image description: A metal archway with the words Kimberly Maged Perennial Garden - through the archway, we can see part of the perennial garden and Theodore Maged at the center giving remarks to a group of guests seated in chairs