Holloway receives award from peony growers association

February 15, 2013

Carla Browning

Professor Pat Holloway was the recipient of awards of appreciation from the Alaska Peony Growers Association Feb. 15. The APGA honored Dr. Holloway for the research she has conducted on peonies, which has assisted the new industry in its efforts to grow and flourish.

Presented the awards by outgoing APGA President Ron Illingworth, Holloway said, "I did a little research but the growers took the ball and ran with it."

Holloway has been growing peonies at the Georgeson Botanical Garden since 2000. Using an earmark from Sen. Ted Stevens, she planted 30 peony varieties and has been studying the flower crop ever since and publishing the results. She is a frequent speaker at growers' gatherings. At the APGA conference this week in Fairbanks, she was met during every break by growers with long lists of questions for her to answer.

Obviously moved by the organization's appreciation of her efforts, Holloway said, "I couldn't be prouder of anything in my whole career."

Illingworth stated, "We would not have this organization or quality of product we have without you. You have made outstanding contributions to the peony industry and the cut flower industry."

The audience of about 150 attendees gave Holloway a standing ovation.