Spotlight on Janice Jerde

Each month we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) — those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to the Virginia Robinson Gardens and to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight Janice Jerde, a dedicated Friend of Robinson Gardens Board Member and a committee member of Premier Events. She has helped Fellows Chair Jeanne Anderson with many exciting events.

The most recent Fellows trip exploring architecture and gardens in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona was a spectacular success. As an architect and former board member of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Janice was able to provide exclusive access to FLW specialists, homes, and Taliesen West (click here for the article on the tour). When Janice was on the Tulane University School of Architecture Advisory Board, she also arranged a fabulous Fellows trip to New Orleans in 2016 (click here for the article on the tour).

1. How did you first learn about VRG, and what inspired you to become a Friend?

I first heard of VRG around 1989. A landscape architectural firm, Galper Baldon, whom I worked with on custom homes, had a house featured on Garden Tour.

2. What’s your role – How do you contribute to VRG?

I believe my contribution would be that I am willing to help — whether searching for speakers, consultants, new members, or helping with Fellows tours.

(Janice is also a great van hostess at Garden Tour, and decorates the auction tables for the VRG Gala and Garden Tour with great style!)

3. Can you share a favorite VRG memory with us?

It was the Friday before Garden Tour in 2016, and I was with a group of women putting centerpieces together for the Tour, and I thought this is a great cause; I really like being around these ladies (and Tim & Josh).