The Fredericksburg chapter of NPSOT is pleased to announce the election of its new Board of Directors for 2025. It includes a mix of continuing and new leadership, with Jonathan Watt stepping into the role of President.
Watt has been deeply involved with plants, from botanic garden-sponsored expeditions in Central and South America collecting and studying Aroids (houseplants like philodendrons and pothos), to taxonomy, landscape design, installation and maintenance, plant collection and propagation. He brings a deep commitment to encouraging more people in Gillespie County to grow Texas native plants.
Additionally, Lanis LeBaron, takes over as Secretary. She has been involved with nonprofits for the past 30 years and recently moved back to Texas. She noted that serving as board Secretary is both a good way to continue that part of her life in a new place and, at the same time, contribute to her long-time interest in native plants, especially in a new environment.
While the President and Secretary position have transitioned, all other board positions remain
unchanged, ensuring continuity in NPSOT Fredericksburg’s strategic initiatives. Returning board members include Paula Stone as Vice President (3rd term), Julie Crawford as Treasurer (4th term), Janice Phelps as Education Director (2nd term), Diane O’Neill as Membership Director and Volunteer Coordinator(3rd term), Holly Simonette as Communications Director (3rd term), and Deborah Simmons as Immediate Past President (after serving 2 terms as President). The board’s collective expertise and dedication position the organization for continued growth and impact in the Fredericksburg and surrounding communities.
NPSOT Fredericksburg is one of the largest and fastest-growing chapters in the state, with
362 members, including affiliates, at the end of 2024 (a five-percent increase over 2023). Additionally, the chapter donated $3,500 to local organizations and $2,000 to a scholarship recipient (funds raised through plant sales and donations), and distributed 150 trees through the Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program.
Regular chapter meetings resume on January 28, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Halle, 212 San
Antonio St, Fredericksburg. The meeting is free and open to the public and monthly meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday of the Month January through October. The chapter annually holds members-only plant sales in the Spring and Fall, as well as other members-only events. To become an actively involved member and/or give a gift membership visit the state website at this link. Get
more information about upcoming meetings and events here at https://npsot.org/chapters/fredericksburg/.
