CAF Seasons Magazine Winter 2025 by cylburn

Chimonanthus praecox, or wintersweet, is a deciduous shrub native to China. Its fragrant, 1” flowers bloom in winter (December-January) on bare branches, though some leaves may persist in warmer areas. In colder regions, flowering shifts to February-March.

“The care of the Earth is our most ancient and most worthy, and after all our most pleasing responsibility. To cherish what remains of it and to foster its renewal is our only hope.”

– Wendell Berry

A year-round inhabitant of Cylburn Arboretum is the eastern gray squirrel. In the winter, they do not hibernate, but during severe weather, they may remain in their nests (called drays). Photo credit: Sarah Ford

From all of us at Cylburn Arboretum Friends, a heartfelt THANK YOU for being such an integral part of our community. As we step into a new year, I’m filled with gratitude while reflecting on the milestones we achieved in 2024. Your unwavering support made it all possible!

In this edition of Seasons, you’ll find an annual report highlighting CAF’s accomplishments over the past year. Here are just a few of the many achievements we are proud to share:

• Welcomed 13,834 visitors to the Nature Education Center in its inaugural year.

• Expanded our guided school field trips by an impressive 83%, hosting 88 classes at Cylburn.

• Planted 33 trees and shrubs in our collections and 50 native trees and shrubs in the Cylburn woodlands.

• Benefited from 3,843 volunteer hours generously donated to support our mission.

• Reached an incredible 766,652 users across our social media platforms.

…and so much more!

Looking ahead to 2025, we will continue to focus on enhancing the experience for everyone who visits, learns, and finds inspiration on our grounds and in the Nature Education Center. At the heart of everything we do are our members—passionate supporters like you, who make it all possible. Your love for this beautiful space in Baltimore City and its boundless offerings inspires us year after year.

I am deeply grateful for your partnership and excited for all we’ll

Booke M. Fritz, Executive Director Cylburn Arboretum Friends

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Hilles Whedbee President

Sandra P. Gohn Vice President

Ramesh Moorthy Secretary

Robert A. Cook Treasurer

Will Clemens

Beverly Davis

Emily Dillon

Patricia Foster

Alan Gilbert

Becky Henry

Mark Gurley

Nancy B. Hill

Mae Hinnant

Douglas Nelson

Daniel Pham

Courtney Sawyer

Nell B. Strachan

EX OFFICIO

Melissa Grim Chief Horticulturist, Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks

Colleen Vacelet Owner, Intreegue Design

SEASONS is published by Cylburn Arboretum Friends

Written and edited by

Brooke M. Fritz Executive Director

Erika Castillo Director of Education

Brent Figlestahler Head Gardener

Bill Geenen | Communication Design Layout and Design

4915 Greenspring Ave. Baltimore, MD 21209

Info@cylburn.org

Phone: (410) 367-2217 Cylburn.org

INTRODUCING HILLES WHEDBEE PAGE 8

Farewell

FROM OUR BOARD PRESIDENT

As Becky Henry transitions from her role as Cylburn Arboretum Friends (CAF) Board

President, we take this moment to reflect on her exceptional leadership, significant achievements, and the bright future she has helped shape for Cylburn. While Becky is stepping down as an officer, we are delighted that she will continue to serve as an active member of the CAF board, bringing her expertise and passion to our ongoing efforts.

In this Q&A, we delve into Becky’s journey with Cylburn Arboretum Friends, exploring the milestones she reached during her tenure, her vision for the arboretum, and what continues to inspire her commitment to our mission. Her insights offer a glimpse into the dedication and heart that have driven CAF’s success over the years.

Q: What inspired you to get involved with CAF initially?

It was Nancy Hill who introduced me to Cylburn Arboretum Friends. At the time, she was the Education Director for CAF, and we’re good friends. I had never even heard of Cylburn before she encouraged me to visit, so I decided to check it out. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was captivated. With my love for gardening and my commitment to supporting Baltimore City, it felt like the perfect place to get involved. The arboretum’s beauty and mission resonated deeply with me, and I knew I wanted to be part of its efforts to make nature accessible to everyone.

Q: What accomplishments during your presidency are you most proud of?

I became president in October 2014, after serving on the board for two or three years. Over the past decade, I’ve seen incredible growth and transformation at Cylburn, and I’m proud to have played a part in that journey.

One of the most significant milestones was the completion of the Nature Education Center. But what truly makes me proud isn’t just the building itself—it’s the people who bring it – and the wider property – to life. CAF’s dedicated staff members are energetic, enthusiastic, and deeply committed. It’s thrilling to see such amazing people drawn to this place, though I can’t take credit for that—CAF’s mission naturally attracts talent of this caliber.

When I began my presidency, I set clear goals for the organization:

I wanted us to be proactive, not reactive—and we’ve made great strides in anticipating challenges and opportunities.

I prioritized building stronger relationships with our city partners, and today, those partnerships are better than ever.

Ensuring our finances were transparent and robust was another key goal, and we’ve achieved that.

I also wanted to break down silos within the organization. Previously, horticulture and education functioned almost independently, but now we operate as a cohesive team, working together toward shared goals.

As a teacher, I’ve especially loved seeing the growth in our educational programming. It’s incredibly rewarding to know we’re fostering a love for nature and learning in the next generation.

Q: What part of the job have you enjoyed the most?

I’ve loved being part of the vibrant community here at Cylburn. This place has a unique energy that pulls you in, and the people who spend their time

here are passionate. It’s inspiring to work alongside individuals who love what they do—and who don’t mind getting their hands dirty in the process! I used to tell my kids, “If you’re dirty, you’re having fun,” and that’s definitely true here. People at Cylburn are great at diving into their work, whether it’s gardening, education, or getting ready for ArBOOretum, all while having a good time.

Another part of the job I cherish is the opportunity to support the city of Baltimore. Baltimore needs places like Cylburn – special places where you can be immersed in nature. I’ll never forget one time with a school group visiting the arboretum. The kids were initially repulsed by some worms we found, but after we talked about how the worms might feel and their important role in the ecosystem, their attitudes shifted. They went from squeamish to fascinated and full of excitement and curiosity.

There are so many moments like that—like hearing about kids who ventured into the woods during a snowstorm – thrilled over the experience. Seeing nature spark that kind of joy and wonder, especially in children, has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work here. It reminds me why places like Cylburn are so important and why I feel so lucky to be a part of it.

Left – Becky spent time with Reginald Moore, the Executive Director for Department of Recreation and Parks, at the grand opening of the Nature Education Center. Above – The CAF team preparing for the Holiday Greens Sale.

Q: What has challenged you along the way?

One of our biggest challenges has been addressing misconceptions about Cylburn Arboretum. When we talk to people about Cylburn, we often hear incorrect assumptions about what it must be. Things like, perhaps because it is an Arboretum it lacks flowers or because it is in Baltimore City it must be a small park. While we are proud to be called a “hidden gem,” we wish we weren’t hidden at all.

Our mission is to be a resource for the community. We want people to see Cylburn not just as a beautiful landscape but as a vital, welcoming space for education, research, and connection to nature. Bridging this gap between perception and reality has required creative outreach, programming, and partnerships, but it remains a continuous effort.

By focusing on visibility and engagement, we aim to ensure that Cylburn Arboretum is recognized and appreciated as a community treasure that everyone feels invited to explore and enjoy.

Q: How do you see the Arboretum growing in the years ahead?

We envision the Arboretum becoming a more dynamic hub for both the community and the scientific world. Our goal is to attract an evergrowing group of visitors, foster increased engagement through diverse programs, and deepen our impact through expanded research and educational opportunities.

A key milestone in our growth is advancing to ArbNet Level 3 accreditation, which underscores our commitment to scientific excellence and the highest standards in arboretum management. This involves strengthening our partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Forest Service, pursuing more scientific research initiatives, and making Cylburn a center for innovative study in horticulture, forestry, and ecology.

Ultimately, we hope Cylburn will continue to grow as a space that balances its historical charm and natural beauty with a forward-looking approach, making it a recognized leader in both public engagement and environmental stewardship.

Above – Both images are the Mount Washington School second grade class on a November 2024 field trip in the snow.

Right – Becky with one of her favorite trees on the CAF grounds, a choral bark maple (Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku').

Q: You have participated in so many Market Day events, field trips, tours and more. What are some of the moments that stand out as most memorable to you over the years?

As a former teacher, field trips have always held a special place in my heart. Watching students explore the grounds, and now our Nature Center, with curiosity and joy has created some of my favorite memories.

Market Day, however, is truly my favorite day of the year. There’s an undeniable magic to the event— the families pulling wagons filled with flowers, kids with painted faces, and the bustling energy of the crowd. I love seeing dads and kids thoughtfully picking out gifts for moms, everyone smiling and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Even when it rains, the cheerful energy persists, and it’s a joy to witness people enjoying the place I hold so dear.

Of course, a deeply personal memory stands out as well—my daughter’s wedding at Cylburn

Arboretum. It was a magical day when all the people and things I love most came together in this cherished place. To celebrate such a meaningful occasion surrounded by Cylburn’s natural beauty made it an experience I’ll treasure forever.

Q: What will your role on the board look like moving forward?

I plan to continue serving on the board and actively participating in committees. My focus moving forward will include delving into the history of CAF. We have 70 years of rich history ready to be documented!

Understanding and sharing our history not only honors the legacy of those who have shaped Cylburn but also helps inform our future direction. By highlighting our past accomplishments, key milestones, and the stories that define our identity, I hope to strengthen our connection to the community and inspire a deeper appreciation for what CAF represents.

Above: CJR first-grade field trip. Left – Party on the Porch. Below – Market Day attendee

Q: What advice would you offer to the incoming president, Hilles Whedbee, and the CAF leadership team?

Hilles has been deeply involved with Cylburn for many years, and I am confident she will establish clear and meaningful goals for both herself and the organization. Cylburn’s greatest strength lies in its ability to connect people—to nature, to one another, and to the wider world. My advice is to engage with the community at every opportunity, whether through inclusive programming, outreach initiatives, or by creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels they belong. Fostering a sense of connection and belonging will ensure that Cylburn remains a cherished place for everyone.

Q: This year we are celebrating our 70th anniversary! Have you thought about what you would say to the volunteers who helped to establish the Cylburn Wildflower Preserve and Garden Center if you met them today?

First and foremost, thank you!! Your dedication and vision were truly extraordinary. It’s remarkable to think about the time and energy you devoted to bringing this special place to life. The stories of children spending days here with their mothers reflect how deeply committed the early visionaries were to creating a wildflower preserve.

I’d love to ask: How did you first discover this place? What inspired you to stay and dedicate yourselves so fully to its development? It’s incredible to imagine the challenges you must have faced and overcome to transform Cylburn into what it has become today.

Your legacy is alive and thriving. The foundation you laid has allowed Cylburn to grow and flourish. I hope you’d be proud to see how far your vision has come and the joy it continues to bring to so many people.

Becky Henry would never sing her own praises, but we at CAF cannot emphasize enough how invaluable her leadership has been to our organization over the past decade. From helping us become a more professional organization to leading a successful capital campaign to fund our Nature Education Center, influencing the design of our new space, and lending a hand with absolutely any task, Becky has been a driving

force behind everything we do. We are thrilled that, while she is stepping down from her leadership role, she will continue to contribute in many meaningful ways. Becky has our hearts, and we deeply appreciate her.

– Brooke Fritz, CAF Executive Director

– Brent

“Fig”

Figlestahler, CAF Head Gardener

– Erika Castillo, CAF Education Director

The Waldorf School leading a Maypole dance at Market Day.

Introducing Hilles Whedbee –

Incoming CAF Board President

Hilles Whedbee has been working with CAF for a decade. She joined the Cylburn Landscape Committee in 2016 and became its Chair in 2023. Hilles is proud to have been part of the Steering Committee that oversaw the conversion of the Carriage House into the Nature Education Center. She helped secure $10,000 for the Jean and Sidney Silber Teaching Garden as a runner-up for the Garden Club of America Founders Fund Award, collaborating with fellow Garden Club of America members to achieve this recognition.

Hilles has been a member of the Garden Club of Twenty since 1985, where she has served as President, and she is a Horticulture Judge for the Garden Club of America. She is also a long-time member and three-time President of the Maryland Daffodil Society.

Hilles has chaired six Baltimore County House and Garden Tours through the Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage, raising significant funds for historic preservation.

Professionally, Hilles is a Certified Nurse Midwife with over 35 years of experience caring for women in Maryland. She serves as a Director at Planned Parenthood of Maryland.

Hilles’s passion for gardening, history, and community care shines through in her tireless efforts, making her an invaluable part of Cylburn’s mission and impact.

Hilles sits between Hilary O’Connor and Mark Gurley at the Welcome Tent during Market Day.

This year marks a significant milestone— our 70th anniversary! For seven decades, Cylburn Arboretum has been a cherished cornerstone of the community, inspiring so many individuals to connect with nature right here in Baltimore. From expanding our educational programs to enhancing our horticultural collections, 2024 has been a year of growth.

OUR REACH

At Cylburn Arboretum, every personal connection strengthens our work. Visitors bring life to the arboretum’s trails, gardens, buildings, and programs, while supporters provide essential resources to maintain and grow our spaces. Meanwhile, our growing social media reach extends the arboretum’s impact beyond its grounds, engaging diverse audiences and sparking curiosity about the importance of green spaces. Together, these elements create a thriving network that sustains Cylburn Arboretum as a vital resource for our community.

Since opening our doors, the Nature Education Center has become a hub of activity, welcoming thousands of visitors, including families from 186 zip codes. While some visitors traveled from as far as Toronto, England, and across the U.S. from Washington, Michigan, and Texas, we are also proud to see strong representation from our local community. Our top three visiting zip codes reflect our focus on serving our neighbors in Mt. Washington and Wellwood (21209), Park Heights and Pimlico (21215), and Coldspring Newtown (21211). The Nature Center has become a launch pad for this wonderfully diverse group of visitors to enjoy our gardens and collections.

These connections—local and far-reaching— demonstrate Cylburn Arboretum’s universal appeal as a place of discovery, learning, and inspiration. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to providing access to nature, fostering environmental stewardship, and creating opportunities for all to enjoy the beauty and benefits of our arboretum

VISITORS

Arboretum 55,000+

Nature Education Center (NEC) 13,834

Highest NEC Attendance Day 362 (May 11)

Highest NEC Non-event Attendance Day 255 (April 28)

Lowest NEC Attendance Day 1 (January 12)

SUPPORT

Total Member Households 688

Volunteers 136

Total Volunteer Hours 3,843

Staff Members 9

New Certified Master Naturalists 23

Master Naturalists Volunteer Hours 762

COMMUNICATION

Total e-mail subscriber base 7,012

Social network followers 20,034

Users reached by social media 766,652

STEWARDSHIP

WORK In 2024, we made tremendous strides in maintaining the health and diversity of our living collections, ensuring they continue to inspire and educate all who visit. From growing our tree collections to restoring woodland areas and enhancing gardens, our efforts reflect a deep commitment to sustainability and ecological balance.

HORTICULTURE

Accessions (collection additions) 33

Native trees and shrubs added to woodland 50

Herbaceous plants and bulbs installed 500+

Square feet of invasive species removed 15,000+

Fessenden Herbarium specimens donated to Towson University 3,000+

SPOTLIGHT: In 2024, our Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps member Ron Roberto led the way in transforming a woodland edge at Cylburn Arboretum, creating a space full of opportunities for learning, engagement, and stewardship. By clearing invasive species and replanting the area with native trees, shrubs, and plants, he not only revitalized the landscape but also laid the groundwork for future community involvement. We hope to expand these revitalized areas in concert with the Baltimore City Master Gardeners in the coming year.

Over the course of the year, the woodland edge became a living classroom and hands-on project site for school groups, summer campers, and volunteers. Students had the opportunity to help plant native oak trees while learning from Ron about the critical role native species play in supporting wildlife. In the coming year, it will continue to be a teaching and learning space. We hope to expand these revitalized areas in concert with the Baltimore City Master Gardeners.

Today, educational mailboxes in the Jean and Sidney Silber Teaching Garden provide visitors with information about the project, extending its impact beyond those directly involved. This space is more than just a natural buffer—it stands as a testament to the power of collective effort and education in creating lasting environmental change at Cylburn.

Layla Salomon, Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Member collecting specimen.

EDUCATION WORK In 2024, our programming reached new heights. We achieved an impressive 83% increase in guided school field trips and introduced a variety of adult programs, including horticulture workshops, new guided walks, and an inspiring lecture series. Meanwhile, the new Nature Education Center has been a resounding success, attracting 13,834 visitors in its first year and serving as a gateway to our trails.

SPOTLIGHT: CAF hosted interns from many schools including Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore City Public Schools, The Park School of Baltimore, The Bryn Mawr School, The Friends School of Baltimore, and most recently Dartmouth College. Shreya Gandhi is a former Bryn Mawr student who currently attends Dartmouth. She chose Cylburn as the destination for her ImpACT Winterim Leadership Intensive, a 3-week program that allows students to address social challenges in their home communities while learning about social change systems through a systemsmapping approach.

EDUCATION

Adult and Family Program Participant

2,100

Students participating in guided field trips

2,083

Cylburn Nature Campers

131

Total Camper Days 763

Scouts and student volunteers

302

Expert lecturers who led CAF programs

With treasured memories of exploring Cylburn as a child, Shreya was drawn to the arboretum as a place to focus her leadership project. She chose to examine the issue of access to green space in Baltimore, using Cylburn as a case study to explore how it creates pathways to safe and restorative green spaces for the community.

During her time at Cylburn, Shreya gained insight into the dedication of the individuals who maintain the grounds and bring its programming to life. Reflecting on her experience, she highlighted the endless opportunities for Cylburn to continue creating positive change by engaging neighboring communities and ensuring that Baltimore’s most underserved residents have access to this safe haven of learning and green space.

2024 OPERATING FINANCIALS

The financial section of this annual report highlights the growth and stability of Cylburn Arboretum Friends over the past year. In 2024, our budget increased from $576,000 in the previous year to $682,948, representing 18.6% growth. This significant increase reflects our organization’s expanding programs, strategic investments, and continued commitment to enhancing Cylburn Arboretum. The additional resources have allowed us to deepen our impact, reach new audiences, and sustain our mission. The following financial details provide a transparent overview of how these funds were allocated and utilized to support our goals. (These are the end of year unaudited numbers. You can find our full Financial Statements under About Us at Cylburn.org.)