05/16/2026
What an inspiring May meeting! 🌱✨
We were thrilled to welcome back former scholarship recipient Bella Todd, who surprised us with an inspiring presentation about her educational journey and future goals. Bella shared that she is pursuing her Master’s in Molecular & Cellular Biology and has been accepted into a PhD program. She also spoke about the importance of female mentorship and supporting women in STEM. In addition to her studies, Bella volunteers with the Paris Agricultural Society, founded 20 Something Girl Magazine focused on mental health awareness, and has received two youth awards. Thank you, Bella, for sharing your experiences and encouraging our members to dream big! 💚
A special thank you as well to Master Gardeners Ann, Nancy, and Liz for their informative and engaging presentation on sustainable gardening. 🌼
Some key takeaways from the evening:
🌿 Gardening is an adventure — observe, learn, and notice changes
🌿 Sustainable gardening improves soil conditions over time
🌿 Healthy soil leads to less watering, fewer pests, and little or no fertilizer needed
🌿 Waiting until spring for garden clean-up helps protect pollinators and beneficial insects
🌿 Invasive plants are harmful non-native species that negatively impact biodiversity, ecosystems, the economy, and human health
🌿 Learn more through Ontario Invasive Plant Council
🌿 Keystone plants play an important role in supporting healthy ecosystems
Thank you to Nina Gut and Terri Healey for the delicious snacks and refreshments!
Thank you to everyone who attended another wonderful evening of learning, community, and growth.
