PHILADELPHIA, PA – July 31, 2025 - The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) stands at a pivotal moment in its history. As the organization approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, it has launched an ambitious project to guide its work into a bold and impactful 3rd century. This 3rd Century Project includes a strategic plan, a visionary plan for our public gardens and landscapes, and a campaign to bring these plans to life.
This next chapter will build on PHS’s long legacy of using horticulture to advance health and well-being across the Greater Philadelphia region. With a focus on deepening its impact, broadening community connections, and spreading joy and beauty through gardening, PHS aims to strengthen and expand its mission in the decades to come.
PHS has engaged Gallagher Consulting Group to facilitate the development of the 3rd Century Strategic Plan. Gallagher Consulting Group is a strategy and executive development firm with extensive experience working with nonprofit organizations, cultural institutions, and public gardens. This comprehensive plan will take a close look at PHS’s core strengths and identify new opportunities to grow its programs. True to its values, PHS is placing community engagement at the center of this effort. The organization has already begun gathering input from key stakeholders to ensure the plan reflects the voices and needs of the people who are at the heart of its work.
Unknown Studio will lead a Visionary Plan to shape the future of PHS’s Public Gardens & Landscapes, working alongside a dynamic team that includes ETM Associates, Canopy Strategic Partners, Urban Heritage Project, and AtkinsRéalis. Together, this group brings deep expertise in comprehensive planning, landscape architecture, urban design, engineering, garden design, and cultural landscapes. This project will reimagine the role of public gardens and public horticulture, placing knowledge and horticultural expression at the center of shared public life. By restoring world-class horticulture to public spaces, PHS aims to set a new standard for what public gardens and landscapes can offer: beauty, biodiversity, wellness, and a powerful sense of connection for all.
To support the successful implementation of these plans, PHS has also retained Charlie Haight, a veteran capital campaign consultant with decades of experience leading fundraising efforts at major institutions. Haight will advise on a comprehensive campaign to raise the resources needed to implement these plans.
A volunteer committee leads the governance of PHS’s 3rd Century Project. Chaired by Ann Marshall and Patti Owens, this committee includes Margaret Sadler, Molly Morrison, Tim Riddle, Gabriella Paez, Janet Haas, Leslie Anne Miller, and David Fleischner.
“This moment offers the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society a rare opportunity to build on two centuries of impact while thoughtfully shaping what comes next. As we plan for the next chapter, we’re guided by the strong belief that gardening and connected, thriving communities go hand in hand. This work will ensure that gardening and horticulture continue to enrich lives for generations to come.” – Matt Rader, President of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society
As PHS prepares for 2027 and beyond, the organization remains focused on its mission to use horticulture to support a healthier, more connected, and resilient Greater Philadelphia region. Additional updates on the process and progress will be shared as the work progresses over the coming 2 years.
ABOUT PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), an internationally recognized nonprofit organization founded in 1827, uses horticulture to advance the health and well-being of the Greater Philadelphia Region. PHS programs create healthier living environments, increase access to fresh food, expand access to jobs and economic opportunities, and strengthen deeper social connections between people. PHS’s work spans 250 neighborhoods; an expansive network of public gardens and landscapes; year-round learning experiences; and the nation’s signature gardening event, the Philadelphia Flower Show. PHS provides everyone with opportunities to garden for the greater good as a participant, member, donor, or volunteer. For information and to support this impactful work, please visit PHSonline.org.
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