The 2025 Friends in Gardening (FiG) Award blooms anew as Abbey Seidensticker, responsible for cultivating the minds and gardens of Zilker Elementary School, received the prestigious honors. The Central Texas School Garden Network inaugurated this award to celebrate the green thumbs and nurturing spirits that help school gardens grow beyond mere patches of earth. Seidensticker was lauded for her leadership and dedication, turning a neglected plot into a veritable oasis of learning and growth for over 500 students.
"Abbey was the primary force behind resurrecting [the garden] out of the weed jungle it had become during Covid," described Garrett Nick, the one who nominated Seidensticker and her colleague, in a statement given to the City of Austin's official blog. "Her efforts allowed us to continue our garden program and expand it to serve all 500 students." Nick emphasized the infectious enthusiasm Abbey spreads among the students, sharing her love for everything from wildflowers to vegetables.
Seidensticker's touch has transformed the Zilker school's garden into more than just rows of plants; it's a classroom without walls where children learn practically about nature's cycles. Abbey's overarching goal is more than maintenance. She aspires to forge a sanctuary where children can reap the full spectrum of nature's offerings, bringing her green vision vividly to life for every child's benefit.
As the latest FiG Award winner, Abbey's prize included a $50 Central Market gift card, a certificate of recognition, and the quirky yet coveted Golden Gnome trophy. The honor serves as more than just personal acclaim; it manifests the collective acknowledgment that time spent in nature's embrace cultivates happier, healthier, and more enlightened children. For those inspired to sprout similar initiatives, the Bright Green Future Grants program offers seeds of knowledge and support. Congratulations to Abbey Seidensticker, a tender of gardens and minds alike; every student at Zilker has felt the nurture of her dedication.
