Portfolio | Alyson Prokop [Manager at New England Botanic Gardens | Adult Education | Illustrator]

uncover the vibrant world of the plant sciences in the newest edition of the

Career

all new adventures of our heroic botanist with a passion for botanical gardens

The author has asserted her moral rights that no images may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without prior permission in writing from the author. It is my precious ...

Cover image: “The Botanist ” M. A. Prokop (2024).

Digitally illustrated in Procreate.

Hello, welcome to my portfolio!

Hello, my name is Alyson Prokop, a botanical garden educator and program manager dedicated to creating impactful horticultural programs that drive organizational growth while nurturing the development of team members. With a focus on growing and leading garden programs, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to botanical garden initiatives that connect people with plants.

Drawing on my background as an educator, horticulturist, and market gardener I prioritize promoting biodiversity and sustainable practices, integrating community engagement and botanical stewardship in program development. Guided by values of continuous learning, collaborative leadership, and sustainability, I aim to contribute to plant conservation and educational projects in a managerial or curatorial role within a botanical garden.

Ultimately, my goal is to deepen people’s appreciation for botanical gardens and plants, inspiring a lasting connection with the natural world.

“To foster an inclusive global community, I aspire to create spaces where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Botanical gardens, as natural hubs of diversity, bring this vision to life for me.”

Education

, University of Guelph

• Bachelor of Science (Honours)

• Plant Biology (m+)

• Horticulture (m+)

University of Guelph

• Graduate Studies

• MSc Plant Pathology

Canadian Institute of Floral Design

• Certificate

• Floral Design

Algonquin College

• Diploma

• Outdoor Education 2011

University of Southern Queensland, Australia

• Continuing Education

• Leading and Managing Organizations

• Curriculum Development and Pedagogy

National Association for Interpretation

• Certified Heritage Guide

• Royal Botanical Gardens

Research

05

03

, Research Associate

• Department of Botany

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium)

• Seed Viability

2003 - 2006

02

2003

Summer Student

, Summer Student

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Potato Chipping Trials with the Ontario Potato Board

2004

2004

Summer Student

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Strawberries / Echinacea

2005

As a research associate with the University of Guelph I was exposed to a diverse array of experiences in plant research and horticultural management. Assisting several PhD candidates allowed me to contribute significantly to projects conducted in growth chambers, managing greenhouse facilities and being involved in plant breeding trials which extended beyond controlled environments to the field. , ,

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Corn [N] Variability

Research Student

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Heritage Apple Variety Trials

04

Research Student

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Pathology

• Coffee Mosaic Virus: An Emerging Global Threat to Our Morning Caffeine Kick

• University of Guelph | Earth University, Costa Rica.

Research Associate

BSc Plant Biology Thesis

• Department of Botany

• Plant Pathology

The role of dark septate endophytes for control of F. oxysporum f.sp on Asparagus officinalis ‘Guelph Millennium’

Research Student

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Tomato / Cucumbers

• Canada G.O.O.S.E. Project

Graduate Research Associate

MSc Plant Pathology Thesis

• Department of Environmental Biology

• Plant Pathology

• The biological and cultural control methods of Anthracnose race 73 on dry edible beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) 2006 -

Research Associate

BSc Horticulture Thesis

• Ontario Agricultural College

• Plant Breeding Trials

• Geraniums

Work Experiences

Professional Statement

Results-driven botanical garden educator and program manager with effective leadership, planning, and time management skills. Excels in project coordination, team cooperation, and program development. Committed to building and supporting teams to connect people to plants and inspire a lifelong passion for botanical gardens.

WORK

Children’s International Learning Centre • 2023-2024

Interim Programme Manager

EXPERIENCES

Halton Food • 2018-2021

Education and Community Garden Coordinator

Royal Botanical Gardens • 2023

Horticultural Societies Liaison

Hamilton Victory Gardens • 2017-2018

Operations Manager

Royal Botanical Gardens • 2022 - 2023

Public Programs Coordinator

Royal Botanical Gardens • 2021 - 2023

Teaching Garden Manager

Children and Youth Gardening Program Coordinator

SKILLS

Plant Sciences: Botany / Horticulture

Community Gardening

Science Communication

Project Managemen

Public Speaking

Team and Relationship Building

Royal Botanical Gardens • 2012 - 2017

Education Resource Interpreter

Royal Botanical Gardens • 2010 - 2011

Summer Student - Garden Interpreter

INTERESTS

Lino-cut printmaking

Botanical Illustration

Beekeeping

Travelling to Botanic Gardens

Deep Space Food Challenge: NASA-CSA

ie. Canada “G.O.O.S.E” project

Community Gardening

My journey toward advocating for community gardening, food security, and food sovereignty education has been profoundly influenced by my personal experiences navigating food insecurity and relying on food banks. Growing up in a household where access to nutritious food was often uncertain, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by individuals and families living in underserved communities. These experiences have fueled my passion for creating inclusive and empowering spaces where everyone has access to fresh, healthy food and opportunities for growth and self-sufficiency.

Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to spearheading transformative projects that address the diverse needs of atrisk individuals, vulnerable communities, and newcomers to Canada. From leading the restoration of the RBG Teaching Garden to establishing a teaching and food bank garden in Burlington and developing community gardens in Hamilton, each endeavor has required meticulous planning, effective volunteer coordination, and strategic communication with community stakeholders. These initiatives have not only provided access to fresh produce but have also empowered individuals to take ownership of their food production, promoting self-sufficiency and fostering a sense of belonging within their communities.

My personal experiences of using food banks and experiencing food insecurity have been a driving force in my commitment to this work. I know firsthand the challenges of not having enough food to eat and the impact it can have on individuals and families. This motivates me

to continue advocating for initiatives that address food insecurity and promote access to healthy, nutritious food for all.

As I transition into the role of an Adult Education Manager at a botanical garden, I am determined to leverage my personal experiences and professional expertise to drive impactful adult education programs. Drawing on my background in community gardening and food security advocacy, I aim to craft engaging and informative curriculum, coordinate logistics, and foster a supportive learning environment conducive to growth and exploration. I firmly believe that botanical gardens serve as invaluable educational hubs that empower individuals to cultivate a deeper understanding of the natural world and their place within it. Through my work, I am committed to advancing this mission and creating inclusive spaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and flourish, connecting people to plants and fostering a deeper appreciation for the importance of botanical gardens in our communities and beyond. My goal is to empower individuals to become stewards of their environment, advocates for food justice, and agents of positive change in their communities.

Managing two garden sites at RBGCanada for youth and adult education, the Teaching Garden stands as a testament to our commitment to hands-on learning and community engagement. Established in 2015 and spanning 1.04 acres, this vibrant space embodies our dedication to fostering horticultural skills and sustainable practices.

Children and Youth Gardening

The children and youth gardening programs at RBG hold a special place in my heart and represent the pinnacle of my career achievements.

Since 1947, families from our local communities have flocked to RBG to participate in these transformative programs, where children and youth learn the fundamentals of horticulture while getting their hands dirty in the garden. Over the years, I have had the privilege of leading the charge in revamping and expanding these programs, which were previously run by summer students lacking gardening experience. Upon my arrival, with only three kids registered across three programs, I set out to breathe new life into the initiative. Through strategic online marketing, revamped descriptions, and engaging programming, the participation soared, leading to the expansion of programs from three to five by 2017, with each session consistently selling out.

Notably, in 2023, I introduced the wildly successful “Little Sprouts” program catering to toddlers aged 18 months to 3 years, which immediately sold out. These programs, all centered around gardening experiences, provide hands-on learning opportunities, with activities tailored to seasonal changes and local expertise to instill a lifelong love of gardening in participants. Among these initiatives, the Junior Gardeners Club, a cornerstone program, stands out, offering a comprehensive curriculum covering permaculture, organic gardening, pruning, greenhouse seedling cultivation, and farm-tofork workshops. Over the past decade, my dedication to these programs has seen them grow exponentially, culminating in the establishment of the Teaching Garden, a testament to our shared passion for nurturing the next generation of gardeners.

Junior Gardeners Club, established in 1947 is North America’s third longest gardening program for kids, and the second oldest in Canada.

Acquiring land at RBG that was slated for decommissioning in 2015 proved to be a stroke of luck, as it coincided with the pressing need for expansion due to the outgrowing of the original site for children’s gardening. This serendipitous opportunity paved the way for the creation of the Teaching Garden, which I managed with dedication and vision. In total, overseeing 1.23 acres across two sites at the botanical gardens, I facilitated horticultural skills development and food growing initiatives, ensuring that these spaces served as dynamic hubs for education, community engagement,

Adult and Seniors Garden Programs

My work in community gardens, particularly within subsidized housing, has been a cornerstone of my commitment to fostering community engagement and empowerment. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, facilitating gardening initiatives for adults and seniors became even more crucial, offering a means to combat isolation and reconnect with the outdoors. Launching a new adult garden club provided a monthly platform for shared learning and camaraderie, while hosting volunteer garden “worker bee” days in the community food garden twice a week served as an opportunity to impart gardening skills and elevate conversations surrounding food security and sovereignty. Through these endeavors, I sought to empower individuals to take ownership of their food production, fostering a sense of resilience and connection within the community.

The implementation of new school gardening programs in Ontario, mandated by the Ontario Curriculum, Bill 216, Food Literacy for Students Act, 2020, marks a significant step towards equipping Ontario students with vital life skills. By requiring school boards to provide experiential food literacy education, the legislation aims to empower students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical abilities to grow, prepare, and make informed choices about healthy food. With my expertise in the plant sciences, horticulture, field botany and market gardening I was able to develop new garden programing for promoting positive health outcomes among students but also creating a permanent horticultural display for educators interested in school garden-

Market Gardening

Hollyfrost Farm / One Acre Garden

Over the span of a decade, from 2013 to 2022, I served as the sole proprietor of the “One Acre Garden” located near Georgian Bay, Ontario, and “Hollyfrost Farm,” a thriving 2-acre market garden that served as the backbone of my tea business, “Geek+Tea.” During this time, I meticulously managed every aspect of the operation, from initial planning and purchasing to hands-on tasks like harvesting, packaging, and branding. This hands-on experience provided me with invaluable insights into the intricacies of practical farming, equipping me with a diverse skill set essential for successful crop cultivation, soil management, and the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. “Hollyfrost Farm” operated under the designation of a “Certified Naturally Grown” farm, underscoring my commitment to organic principles and environmentally friendly farming methods.

Specializing in the cultivation of cut flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and peonies, alongside a wide array of herbs ranging from saffron and calendula to various mints, roses, and elderberries, “Hollyfrost Farm” was not only a thriving business venture but also a labour of love. I used my expertise in plant cultivation techniques, ensuring the highest quality crops for my tea blends while maintaining a deep respect for the land and its natural resources. This experience instilled in me a profound appreciation for the delicate balance between agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship. As the sole proprietor, I navigated the challenges and triumphs of small-scale farming with resilience and determination, continually striving to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of both my business and the broader market gardening community.

Beekeeping

From 2015 to 2022, I immersed myself in the art and science of apiculture, cultivating a deep understanding of bee behaviour and hive management. Beginning with Ontario-bred Buckfast bees, I embarked on a journey of learning and skill-building, completing the Ontario Beekeepers’ Association course to solidify my foundational knowledge. At the peak of my beekeeping venture, I managed a thriving apiary comprising 25 hives, where I oversaw every aspect of hive maintenance, from pest monitoring and queen rearing to meticulous brood and Varroa mite monitoring.

I implemented strategies to support hive health and productivity, such as planting companion plants like lavender to deter Wax Moth infestations, lemongrass as a swarm attractant, and thyme to combat Varroa mites. As part of my commitment to community engagement and sustainability, I launched a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, offering individuals the opportunity to sponsor beehives on my property along the scenic Niagara Escarpment. This initiative, known as “Adopt-a-Bee,” not only provided sponsors with a percentage of the honey, wax, and propolis produced but also served as a means for urban dwellers and individuals with bee allergies to support beekeeping practices. Additionally, I actively contributed to local beekeeping efforts by assisting with swarm removals, hive maintenance tasks, and participating in agricultural fairs and farmers’ markets, where I proudly sold “Trail Blaze” honey, inspired by my farm’s location along the iconic Bruce Trail and Niagara Escarpment.

At the conclusion of each season, I hosted a farm open-house event, inviting visitors to partake in honey tastings and hands-on honey extraction sessions. This immersive experience allowed everyone to get a taste of the world of beekeeping - beekeeping with no “stings” attached.

Event Coordination

Lecture Series and Horticultural Events

My extensive experience in large event planning spans a diverse array of projects, from the successful coordination of the 9th Biennial Patrick Colgan Memorial Lecture to overseeing the book launch for “Flora’s Fieldworker’s: Women and Botany in 19th Century Canada ,” in collaboration with Queen’s University Press. These endeavours demanded high-detail organization, balancing the needs of both in-person and remote speakers with simultaneous online video feeds for widespread accessibility.

Managing a lineup of 12 speakers representing various book chapters, I facilitated extensive communication and coordination to gather biographies, arrange venue logistics, and audiovisual setup.

Collaborating closely with departments such as Visitor Services, Marketing, and Operations, I upheld a high standard of professionalism, ensuring seamless execution while also developing comprehensive annual workplans to guide future iterations of the Patrick Colgan Memorial Lecture.

In addition to these large-scale events, I also oversaw the coordination of Horticultural Flower and Garden Shows, Plant Sales and Judging competitions.

Smaller workshops, dinner lectures, and end-of-season harvest parties were more intimate gatherings providing invaluable hands-on learning experiences, fostering a deeper connection with nature and horticulture among participants.

From securing guest speakers to organizing workshop materials and coordinating catering, I ensured each event was meticulously planned and executed to provide enriching experiences for all attendees. These smaller-scale events played a crucial role in complementing our larger programming efforts, offering tailored opportunities for education, engagement, and community-building within our youth gardening initiatives.

While the in-house or hired AV tech ensured feeds were live and/or recorded, I was responsible for monitoring all behind-the-scenes technological aspects, ensuring smooth operation throughout the events. This included overseeing live chat functionalities and promptly addressing any technical issues that arose to maintain communication and engagement with attendees. By closely monitoring these technological components, I ensured that all participants could fully immerse themselves in the event experience without disruptions, contributing to the overall success of each gathering.

YouTube Links:

Flora’s Fieldworkers: Women and Botany in 19th Century Canada

9th Biennial Patrick Colgan Memorial Lecture

Grow Great Gardens

Hydroponics and Gardening Without Soil

Saturday, February 18;

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at RBG Centre.

Fee: $120

Garden Pests & How to Spot Them

Saturday, March 25;

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at RBG Centre.

Fee: $99

Propagation

Saturday, March 4;

2 to 4 p.m. in the propagation greenhouse at the Arboretum.

Fee: $55 (M 10% off)

Speaker Series

Exploring Knowledge of Maize Milpa and Cacao and their Delicious Ecological Gastronomy

Thursday, January 26, 2023; 7 to 9 p.m. at RBG Centre.

Fee: $85 (M 10% off)

Prescribing Nature: What’s The Science Behind Park

Prescriptions?

Thursday, March 23, 2023; 7 to 9 p.m. at Rock Garden.

Fee: $10 (M free)

Getting Your Home to Net Zero

Thursday April 20, 2023; 7 to 9 p.m. at RBG Centre.

Fee: $10 (M free)

New

Register online: click on the program title

Learn about hydroponics and the art of growing plants without soil in this one-day workshop led by Fred Prescod. Discover the basic types of hydroponic systems, the types of growing media that are used and the plants best suited to growing hydroponically.

Partner:

In this six-hour workshop, Fred Prescod introduces the most common garden pests in Ontario and provides tips for identifying and managing them.

Partner:

Join Chris Tarrant, RBG plant propagation manager for an informative, and interactive propagation workshop. Chris discusses soft and hardwood cuttings, seed starting, and the materials, methods and care needed for successful propagation with time to practice some of the techniques. Each participant takes home pots with plant cuttings.

Prescribing Nature: What’s the science behind park prescriptions?

Many of our most beloved foods are native to the Americas. Join Michael Sacco from ChocoSol as he takes us on a unique anthropological and culinary journey that allows you to taste, learn and experience the relationships and the importance of maize and cacao in food culture. After the lecture you are invited to join a ritual of taste and sensory education with a cacao tasting experience. 19+ event.

PATRICK COLGAN MEMORIAL LECTURE

Dr. Melissa Lem is founder and director of PaRx: Park Prescriptions Canada’s national nature prescription program in partnership with the BC Parks Foundation. Join her and local physician Dr. Myles Sergeant as we dive deep into the science of prescribing nature for health.

Join climate advocate and author Grant Linney for an engaging talk on how he renovated his 1940s home to have a zero-carbon footprint. Grant outlines a sequence of steps to get your home to net-zero including costs, how to take advantage of government grants and the advantages of heat pumps, water heaters, lighting and solar panels and properly insulating your attic and basement.

You are invited to join Dr. Melissa Lem, founder and director of PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program in partnership with BC Parks Foundation, and local physician Dr. Myles Sergeant, founding medical director of the Shelter House Network, as we dive deep into the science of prescribing nature for health.

FREE with registration: rbg.ca/Prescribing-nature

The nineth biennial Patrick Colgan Memorial Lecture Thursday, March 23; 7 p.m.

David Braley & Nancy Gordon Rock Garden 1185 York Boulevard Hamilton, ON L0R 2H9

Dr. Myles Sergeant

Dr. Melissa Lem

As the Project Manager for “Halton Garden Week 2021,” an online gardening conference hosted by Halton Food during the height of the pandemic, I spearheaded the organization’s pivot to a virtual platform due to government restrictions on community gardens. Collaborating with our director, we secured funding for an online hosting platform, “Pheedloop,” and I led the design of webpages while coordinating all social media efforts managed by our co-op student. My responsibilities included ensuring seamless scheduling that didn’t conflict with other local online events, confirming speakers, and overseeing all delegated tasks to adhere to our project timeline.

Additionally, I coordinated Oakville Seedy Sundays with Seeds of Diversity for two years prior, orchestrating winter gardening days featuring seed and garden vendors, speakers, and workshops. Our unique event included a garden book swap benefiting the library and school programs, as well as a garden tool swap where leftover tools were donated to subsidized community housing projects supported by Halton Food.

During the growing season, I played a pivotal role in launching the “Dig-In to Gardening” videoblog, a weekly initiative where we hosted live 15-minute garden lessons or skills workshops followed by Q&A sessions or interviews with local gardeners. Proposing and championing this idea, I coordinated the team’s efforts, meticulously planning topics and scheduling posts to ensure a seamless execution.This initiative not only provided valuable gardening insights but also fostered community engagement and

Interpretation

During my more than a decade at the Royal Botanical Gardens since 2012, I broadened my nature interpretation skills, integrating dynamic elements like animal shows, puppetry, and storytelling. Mastering new information swiftly, I adeptly conveyed vast knowledge to the public, engaging visitors personally by assuming various roles and confidently addressing inquiries, enriching their overall experience and deepening their connection to nature. From leading field trips to managing exhibits for crowds ranging from 10 to 1000 individuals, I excel in presenting information in an engaging and accessible manner. Embracing innovative methods like costumed interpretation and roving, I’ve immersed visitors in the natural world, nurturing a profound appreciation for botanical gardens and their ecological importance. My commitment lies in inspiring curiosity and fostering connections between people and the environment.

• FORMAL AND INFORMAL

• ROVING

• COSTUMED

• STORYTELLING

• WAYSIDE EXHIBITS

• FORMAL EXHIBIT

• SIGNAGE

Journee Francaise a Jardin Botanique Royaux de Canada pour les Dinosaures March 12 @RBGCanada.

Speaking Engagements

Lecturer

University of Guelph

• Plant Pathology (Teaching Assistant)

• 2006-2008

Mohawk College

• Perennials in the Garden (2023)

Algonquin College

• Wild Edibles; Plant ID Skills (2010)

Conference Presenter

Halton Garden Week

• Host - Halton Gardening Week (online)

• Growing Your Indoor Edible Garden (2022)

• Halton Master Garden-ing Trivia with Halton Food (2021)

Children and Youth National Gardening Conference

• Community Gardens as Sites of Learning for Friendship, Food Security and Fun

• Austin, Texas (2015)

• South Carolina (2016)

Guest Speaker

The Backyard Apothecary

• Mississauga Public Libraries (2023)

• Hamilton Garden Club (2022)

• Halton Garden Week (2021)

• Algonquin College (2020)

• South Carolina (2016)

Clubs | Associations

National Association of Interpretation

Ottawa Street Farmers Market

• Secretary (2022-2023)

Orillia Fairgrounds and Farmers’ Market

• Board of Director (2018-2022)

Workshops | Training

Seed Starting for Beginners

• Seedy Saturday Mississauga (2024)

Designing with Natives in the Edible Landscape

• Conservation Halton (2024)

Grow Your Own Food: Adult Garden Series

• RBGCanada (2022-2023)

The Urban Beekeeper

• Hamilton Garden Club: Gage Park (2022)

Graphic Design

I bring to the table a wealth of graphic design experience, particularly highlighted by my role in shaping the branding identity of “Geek+Tea.” As the sole propriator and designer responsible for the branding of the business, I meticulously crafted visual elements that resonate with the brand’s ethos, as showcased on the website Geek+Tea.

Additionally, my tenure as an independent contractor for branding projects equipped me with a keen understanding of adhering to established branding guidelines.

At RBG, I honed my skills in both print and digital media, producing a plethora of captivating designs in both print and digital media.

My proficiency lies primarily in the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, including Illustrator, InDesign (utilized for creating this very portfolio), Photoshop, and Bridge. I’m adept at video editing using Adobe

Rush and Premiere Pro, with a touch of After Effects and Lightroom for added finesse. When it comes to illustration, I prefer to use Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop, occasionally leveraging Canva for certain projects.

• Created branding efforts and website for “Geek+Tea” business (2013present).

• Created branding guide and print media for “Festivals of Light”, Children’s International Learning Centre (2023-2024)

• Extensive experience as an independent contractor for branding projects, adept at adhering to branding guidelines.

• Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud suite: Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and Bridge.

• Skilled in video editing using Adobe Rush, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Lightroom.

• Experienced in illustration using Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop, with occasional use of Canva.

7

8 H

O2 CHIMNEY Firman Djamil

EARTH, REEDS, STICKS, STRING, FUNGI Chris Booth

WILLOW WINDS 2008, Emilie Brzezinski

(Top L-R): Graphic recipe pages for RBG Junior Gardeners’ Club; Festivals of Light learning materials; RBG directional sign; Sun and Shade profile of the RBG Teaching Garden.

Interpretive Signs & Print Media

Utilizing my expertise in graphic design I have played a pivotal role in creating interpretive signage for various special exhibits and public documents at Royal Botanical Gardens Canada.

From crafting signage for the captivating cactus collection to highlighting the intricate details of the HAM Herbarium Goldenrod display, I ensured that each sign adhered to RBG’s branding standards while effectively communicating the intended message. Additionally, I have been instrumental in designing general wayfinding signage to enhance visitor experience and navigation throughout the gardens.

Between 2013 and 2017 I coordinated all of RBG’s in-house large format printing. This required expertise in Adobe CC to edit PDFs which would come from the graphic designer or departments, and to also craft visually appealing and informative signage that captivated audiences. The LARC (Library and Archives Resource Centre) contained an Epson 36” poster printer, a wide-format Roland VersaCAMM to print on vinyl, canvas, banner material, fabrics, etc., cold lamination machine, Primera sticker printer, and Epilog engraver to make plant collection and specimen labels.

In addition to my roles in fabrication and design, I innovatively developed a ticketed tracking system to streamline the organization of requests from various departments. This system efficiently monitored the progress of each project, categorizing stages such as “in review,” “waiting for approval,” “printing,” and “complete.” By implementing this system, I ensured transparency and accountability throughout the signage creation process,

facilitating effective communication and timely completion of projects. Moreover, this tool played a crucial role in maintaining consistency and professionalism across all displays, enabling meticulous attention to detail and adherence to RBG’s branding guidelines.

CHIMNEY Firman Djamil

REEDS, STICKS, STRING, FUNGI Chris Booth WILLOW WINDS 2008, Emilie Brzezinski

Writing

Position: RBG Public Programs Coordinator

In addition to crafting compelling promotional material and collaborating with various departments, I played a key role in editing content and sourcing photos for the quarterly “RBG Experiences” public programs brochure. Through meticulous editing, I ensured that all promotional materials were polished, error-free, and aligned with RBG’s brand voice and messaging. I sourced high-quality photos to complement the promotional content, enhancing its visual appeal and effectiveness in capturing the attention of our target audience. By meticulously editing content and sourcing photos, I contributed to the overall success of RBG’s diverse range of public programs.

Grow Great Gardens

Cavallin, field botanist and herbarium curator. Learn how these collections inform conservation work at RBG and botanical research worldwide.

Between the Covers of Seed Catalogues

Sunday, April 23; 1 to 3 p.m. at RBG Centre. At RBG there is a hidden world of tens of thousands of historical horticultural catalogues listing seeds for planting, and tools for gardening dating as far back as 1853. Erin Aults, librarian and archives specialist, takes us back in time with a special glimpse of some of the over 30,000 horticultural catalogues in Canada’s largest collection. We’ll highlight local history, the development and use of horticultural plants, personal papers of many successful horticulturists, ephemera and other special collections.

Growing Your Own Food

Third Wednesday of every 2023 month, 6 to 8 p.m. at RBG Centre. Fee: $30 per session (M 10% off)

Learn the basics of growing your own food by getting your hands in the soil in this monthly gardening series. Join RBG staff, horticulturists and local professionals and develop the skills you need to grow your own food at home. Each session explores a different topic — please see website for full details.

Landscape For Life Wednesdays, March 22, 29, April 5, 12, 19, 26 and May 3; 7 to 9 p.m. at RBG Centre.

Fee: $250 (M 10% off)

Developed by the US Botanic Garden and Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Centre, Landscape for Life is based on the principles of the Sustainable Sites Initiative. Work with nature for a climatefriendly garden regardless of where you live. This six-part course led by RBG staff outlines soil,

Innovating PDF Navigation

In 2023, I proposed and implemented the innovative idea of linking titles within the online PDF brochure directly to the main RBG.ca webpage for each program.

This enhancement not only streamlined navigation for users but also provided seamless access to additional information and resources available on the RBG website This small change led to improving the user experience and a 5% registration increase.

Informal Scientific Writing

In this sample of informal creative writing rooted in science, I offer a glimpse into my Patreon account with Geek+Tea, where I blend botany and horticulture insights with a dash of science fiction. Through regular blog posts, I take readers on an entertaining journey that explores these topics in a relaxed and whimsical manner. By intertwining educational content with elements of imagination, my goal is to captivate and inspire readers while bridging the gap between science and storytelling.

Case Study: Iconic Plant Marketing

Royal Botanical Gardens 2022-2023

RBG Public Programs Coordinator

As RBG Public Programs Coordinator I was responsible for creating the web content for all programs to promote the “Iconic Plant Tours” (IPT) series. The IPT series runs year-round and each are led by one of the RBG’s curators of science or horticulture. Part of my initiative was to expand horticultural programs and involve more staff.

The tours highlighted RBG’s diverse botanical wonders, offering enriching experiences led by knowledgeable curators.

Those listed in bold were tours that I introduced during my time at RBG:

• Lilacs of the Arboretum

• Roses of Hendrie Park

• Irises and Peonies of Laking Garden

• A Walk Through Rock

• Late Summer Splendour in Hendrie

• Arboretum in the Autumn

• Magic of the Mediterranean House

• Behind-the-Scenes in the Herbarium

• Between the Covers of SeedCatalogues

The following page details the evaluation process, actions taken, and outcomes, emphasizing the impact of strategic web media improvements on tour registrations and program success.

Results Evaluation & Action

Taking proactive initiative, I evaluated all the current IPT program webpages and implemented the following improvements:

Added Hero Image Recognizing the importance of visual appeal, I introduced a captivating hero image alongside the title to create a more enticing first impression.

Enhanced Description Understanding the significance of engaging content, I revamped the description to provide a more immersive and descriptive narrative, enticing visitors to explore further about the Lilac blooms festival and other IPT offerings.

Instructor’s Biography Inclusion I observed a discrepancy in the inclusion of instructor biographies across all public programs. To enhance credibility and personalize the experience, I incorporated all the instructor biographies creating consistency and allowing visitors to connect with the expertise guiding the tours.

Incorporated Visuals Acknowledging the power of imagery, I curated a selection of photos from past tours taken by volunteers or participants, enriching the webpage with captivating visuals and providing a glimpse into the experience awaiting attendees.

The result of these enhancements was a remarkable success in terms of tour registrations, with the following key outcomes:

Overall Aesthetic Enhancement By implementing these changes, I significantly improved the aesthetic appeal of the webpage.

Expansion of Horticultural Programs The introduction of new IPTs led by RBG’s curators was part of a broader initiative I spearheaded to expand the horticultural programs and involve more RBG staff in these enriching experiences.

Sold Out Tours All tours were sold out, with registrations exceeding capacity (15 registrations), marking a significant improvement compared to the previous year and indicating a substantial rise in demand and interest among participants.

Exceeded Previous Enrollment Numbers This performance starkly contrasts with the previous year, where minimum registration of 8 registrations per tour.

Enhanced Engagement and Appeal The revamped webpages played a pivotal role in driving higher engagement and registrations, enriched with captivating visuals, engaging descriptions, and the inclusion of the instructor’s biography.

Positive Feedback and Satisfaction Participant feedback highlighted the improved user experience and the appeal of the updated web media content, affirming the effectiveness of the enhancements.

Illustrations

The Plant Lady (2024). Adobe Illustrator.

Pumpkin Party on Alpha Centauri (2023).

Adobe Illustrator.

Camping in Canada (2021). Linoprint.

Rainy Days. (2024). Procreate.

The Botanist (2023). Procreate.

It’s a Trap! (2022). Adobe Photoshop collage.

Recognition

“[Alyson] is an incredibly talented woman who takes initative, is patient and a great leader. RBG is lucky to have her.“

• Len Collins, RBG Board of Directors (2023 -2024); RBG Volunteer.

“Working with Aly in the Teaching Garden was a real pleasure. Her energy and enthusiasm is infectious. Not only is she full of exciting and innovative ideas, she also has the passion to see them through. Aly excels at team-building; her respect for her volunteer team was deeply appreciated.

Her planning and time management ensured her volunteers felt our time was valued. She communicated expectations clearly and was able to pivot quickly if something wasn’t working out. Her organizational skills in the hectic environment of a productive food garden are impressive and a sign of her deep love of all things gardening.”

• J.S. Veter, RBG Volunteer Garden - Food Gardens

“My daughter isn’t interested in anything except gardening with Miss Aly. We are so fortunate to have found this program at RBG.”

• Leanne Stephenson, RBG Kinder-gardening parent (2021-2023).

[Alyson] is a walking encyclopedia of plant knowledge and makes learning about gardening easy and fun! Her courses are always very informative. My [goodness she] knows a lot”.

• Jill MacDonald, Marketing and Sales, RBG (2023).

“As a florist I can always count on Hollyfrost Farm to have on-trend stock, and I am always amazed at how she is able to find something new and unique that my customers love! Love Love Love her!”

• Thuja Florist, Hamilton (2019).

“[Alyson] always greets our staff and volunteers with a smile and takes initiative and I have been very impressed with [her] work.”

• Isabella Marchese, CILC Board of Directors (2023); RBG Volunteer (assisted with King’s Coronation activity in the Green Thumb Club).

“Aly is an incredibly creative and thoughtful tea maker, artist, farmer, community advocate and one-woman business runner. The teas I receive from "Geek and Tea" are of the highest quality, smell AMAZING and beautifully packaged with her original art. I would give this business 10 stars if I could. Aly truly deserves them. I hope this business continues to live long and prosper.”

- Michelle Buckley (2022).

5 Star Google Review

LOVE PLANTS ... COMPLETE AND UNABRIDGED

Take a look at “Career Portfolio” by Alyson Prokop, a thrilling journey into the world of botanical wonders! In this gripping anthology of achievements, you’ll delve into the daring exploits of a botanist extraordinaire, navigating through the verdant landscapes of horticultural triumphs and educational endeavours.

Join our intrepid protagonist as she unveils the secrets of successful program management, volunteer coordination, and community outreach within the lush realms of botanical gardens.

Prepare to be captivated by tales of growth, collaboration, and a relentless passion for fostering connections between people and plants.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime – because in this gripping narrative, the excitement blooms with every turn of the page!

A FIRST EDITION

HAMILTON

ONTARIO

@PBIOGAL

with additional exploits in botanical illustration, linocut printmaking, rowing, herding sheep and cats, and gardening!