Johnstone Lecture

The Johnstone Lecture, sponsored by the Friends of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, was named in honor of the State Botanical Garden’s first director, Dr. Francis E. Johnstone, Jr., and highlights an environmental topic. This year, we are proud to announce that Abra Lee, storyteller and author of the forthcoming book “Conquer The Soil: Black America and the Untold Stories of Our Country’s Gardeners, Farmers, and Growers,” will be speaking on “The Invincible Garden Ladies.”

It was nothing short of a grand affair when Blanche Hurston launched her Florida floral business during the roaring twenties. And when it came time to sell beautiful blooms, the mighty Mahalia Jackson made customers an offer they couldn’t refuse! From the ordinary to the extraordinary—join in as we shine the spotlight on these lady legends in horticulture who forged a path to economic and social freedom, providing inspiration for plant lovers today.

We are delighted that the lecture has been selected to be a part of the Signature Lecture Series by the UGA Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.

Requests for accommodations for those with disabilities should be made as soon as possible but at least seven days before the lecture. To request accommodations, please email egl22991@uga.edu.