Schermer, Calhoun Join NGB Board Of Directors

By Greenhouse Grower staff|February 2, 2011

National Garden Bureau (NGB), a non-profit organization promoting gardening on behalf of the horticulture industry, has named Fides‘ Mark Schermer and Benary‘s Jen Calhoun as new directors to its board for 2011-2012.

Both Schermer and Calhoun offer a broad range of marketing experience to help move the organization forward.

“Today, we have a unique opportunity to use technology and social media to not only provide useful information, but to create an interactive energy around gardening,” Calhoun says. “I look forward to helping National Garden Bureau bring that excitement to the home gardener.”

Schermer, who was born in The Netherlands, brings an international perspective to the board. As for his goal for NGB, he wants to find ways to connect to large groups of consumers and get them interested in gardening. Inspired by some European initiatives, he sees some interesting opportunities.

“Let’s think outside the box to create awareness for what gardening can do for individuals and society,” he says. “Let’s turn all Americans into gardeners!”

National Garden Bureau’s officers are: President Stephanie Turner of Park Seed, Vice President Duane Sinning of Floranova and Treasurer/Past President Bill Watson of Grimes Horticulture.

Other National Garden Bureau directors are: Marvin Anderson, Alf Christianson Seed; Mike Huggett, American Takii; Janis Kieft, Botanical Interests; Gene Milstein, Applewood Seed; Miles Rogers, Seeds By Design; Claire Watson, Ball Horticultural Co.; and Rudy Westenberg, Hem Genetics BV.