Speaker Programs
Staff from The Holden Arboretum can enhance meetings and events at our site or yours with insightful programs on a variety of informative topics. Please contact the Education Department at 440.602.3833 for fee information and to obtain a speaker request form. Or download a request form.
Sharon Graper, Manager of Formal Education
Graper’s relationship with Holden began in 1981 when she chose Holden as the location for her high school senior project.
Since 1994, Graper has managed school programming at Holden. She has a master’s degree in science education from
the University of Delaware and received her undergraduate degree in environmental science from the University of
Virginia.
How to Nurture a Child’s Sense of Wonder
This presentation, complete with hands-on activities, is designed for adults who want to be a companion in their child’s
exploration of the natural world. Techniques and activities that encourage children to discover the world around them will
be presented. The focus will be on why it is more important to appreciate what is seen, than to know its scientific name.
Brian Parsons, Assistant to the President for Special Projects
Parsons, a graduate of Beloit College, designed and constructed the Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden and the Arlene
and Arthur S. Holden Jr. Butterfly Garden. Areas of special interest include the conservation of native plants, Ohio plant
communities, propagation of endangered plant species, the management of natural areas, and natural landscaping.
Landscaping for the Birds
Discover the plant species most suitable for attracting birds to your home landscape and the concepts behind this unique
landscape approach.
Native Plants in the Home Landscape
This will be a discussion of the use of native species in the landscape and the techniques of incorporating them into a
natural design. Slides will illustrate suitable plants as well as design characteristics.
Conservation of Endangered Plant Species
The presentation will describe Holden’s efforts in this endeavor and its work as the Great Lakes regional garden in the
Center for Plant Conservation’s national network of botanical institutions.
Natural Areas of The Holden Arboretum
Slides and discussion will focus on the diversity, beauty, and importance of Holden’s ecosystems and the many issues that
threaten these valuable strongholds of bio diversity.
Mike Watson, Conservation Biologist
Watson works on conservation issues involving wildlife, including a deer browse project designed to measure the impact of deer on Holden's forests. He is also the coordinator for Holden's Bluebird Project, a volunteer-based program monitoring the nesting activity of bluebirds and other species using Holden's more than 200 nestboxes. Watson earned his bachelor's degree from the College of Wooster and a master's degree from the University of Michigan.
Return of the Eastern Bluebird
This presentation will provide some basics of bluebird ecology and conservation. It will also address Holden's role in the successful recovery of this species in Ohio, including an overview of how Holden volunteers track bluebird nesting activity and current information on the status of bluebirds at Holden. Finally, tips for the homeowner on providing safe and attractive nesting options will be shared.
Marian Williams, Manager of Public Programs
Williams is responsible for Holden’s public programs and interpretation of the gardens and natural areas as well as a
variety of other special projects. She received her undergraduate degree from Earlham College and her master’s degree
from Purdue University.
Underutilized Trees and Shrubs for the Landscape
This one-hour program of underutilized, yet highly ornamental trees and shrubs, is a must see. Plants selected for the
show are those recommended by Holden staff and current literature. Emphasis is placed on which plant material offers
three-season interest through a combination of beautiful flowers, fruit, foliage, bark, form and texture.
Tom Yates, Lantern Court Supervisor
Yates is responsible for the beautiful grounds of Lantern Court, a classic country estate at Holden. An avid naturalist, he
leads hikes to Holden’s natural areas and has a vast knowledge of the flora of Northeast Ohio.
The Holden Arboretum: A Natural History
The rich diversity of flora and fauna to be found at Holden throughout the seasons is explored through slides and
discussion.
Wildflowers of Northeast Ohio
The spotlight is on the beauty of Northeast Ohio’s wildflowers as you learn about identification characteristics, habitat
and cultural requirements.
Propagation of Wildflowers
Tips for home propagation of wildflowers will be covered including transplanting, seed germination and cuttings. Wise
conservation practices will be stressed.
