K-State (Kansas) is responsible for the awards process as the previous international conference host. Application information will be posted soon.
Do you know of an outstanding gardening project that benefited your community? Then consider submitting it for a Search for Excellence Award. These awards recognize the outstanding volunteer work of Extension Master Gardeners. There are seven categories for submission. Winning entries will be recognized at the 2025 International Master Gardener Virtual Conference held August 25-28, 2025 and hosted by the Texas Master Gardener Program.
The David Gibby Search for Excellence (SFE) Awards recognize the outstanding volunteer work of Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) throughout the United States. SFE includes seven categories in which EMGs can demonstrate meaningful contributions to their communities. All SFE applications must show that significant learning took place, whether by the EMGs or the general public. SFE is designed to recognize outstanding group projects and not an individual who does outstanding work.
SFE Awards are named for Dr. David Gibby of Washington State University who in 1973 created the Extension Master Gardener program. Dr. Gibby trained volunteers with a passion for gardening to assist Extension with consumer horticulture education in the community.