Brookgreen Gardens presents three Culture Awards to internal staff and volunteer
August 13, 2023
Brookgreen Gardens recently presented Culture Awards to three individuals for their exceptional commitment to upholding the values of the organization. The award is presented annually to a manager, a staff member, and a volunteer who exemplify the spirit of collaboration, passion, and integrity that lies at the heart of Brookgreen’s mission. This year’s award winners were Janet Coen, Manager of Public Exhibits and Logistics; Stephanie Jalbert, Guest Services Associate; and Sandra Zanfini, volunteer.
“These Culture Award recipients epitomize the essence of our organization, and their commitment to Brookgreen serves as a reminder of the extraordinary potential within each of us,” says Page Kiniry, President of Brookgreen Gardens. “We are pleased to recognize Janet, Stephanie, and Sandra for their hard work and dedication that allow us to carry on the mission of our founders, Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, to be a leader in exhibiting the finest in American figurative sculpture, environmental conservation, and the protection of the plants, animals, and history of the South Carolina Lowcountry.”
Janet Coen, Manager Award Recipient
Janet Coen, a dedicated member of the Brookgreen team since 2017, was recognized for her exceptional contributions as the Manager of Public Exhibits and Logistics. Her peers praise her for her extraordinary talent in enhancing the beauty of the Gardens through her exquisite lighting designs. Janet’s ability to lead and inspire a team of talented staff and volunteers has allowed their collective vision to come to life. She consistently brings a positive attitude, efficiency, and helpfulness to her work, making her an absolute pleasure to collaborate with.
Stephanie Jalbert, Staff Award Recipient
Stephanie Jalbert is a remarkable Guest Services Associate who began her career with Brookgreen Gardens in 2018. She is highly regarded by her peers for her consistent positivity, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond. She embodies the essence of Brookgreen’s culture through her helpfulness, cheerful demeanor, and unwavering dedication to providing exceptional service to visitors. Stephanie’s willingness to step up and assist, even outside of her assigned shifts, highlights her unwavering commitment to ensuring a positive experience for all.
Sandra Zanfini, Volunteer Award Recipient
Sandra Zanfini has been an active Brookgreen volunteer since August 2019, quickly earning President’s Council volunteer membership in 2020 with over 400 volunteer hours. Sandra became a mentor in 2022, coaching and training new volunteers as they begin their journey at Brookgreen. Sandra is currently a Live Oaks Council member, volunteering 687 hours in 2022, and she encourages others to seek out various volunteer opportunities throughout Brookgreen. Sandra is a membership ambassador, often volunteers for special events and weddings, works on special projects with public exhibits, is a steady volunteer with food and beverage and in the Old Kitchen, and can often be found throughout the Gardens assisting guests while strolling.
Culture Award runners-up were Abigail Guillion, Assistant Manager of Keepsakes, and Tony Prince, Director of Public Operations, for the manager award; Viki Richardson, former Coordinator for Outreach Programs, and Gina Davis, Horticulturist, for the staff award; and Brenda Harman and Shirley Preleski for the volunteer award.
About Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is located on U.S. 17 between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, on South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, and is open to the public daily. Founded in 1931 by Anna Hyatt Huntington and Archer Huntington, Brookgreen is home to the largest and most significant collection of American Figurative Sculpture in the country, and is a leader in sculpture conservation, environmental conservation, and the protection of the plants, animals, and history of the South Carolina Lowcountry. For more information, visit our web site at www.brookgreen.org or call 843-235-6000.
