PORTER COUNTY
MASTER GARDENERS ASSOCIATION
2026 PCMGA Scholarship Recipient
Left to right: Marlena’s sister Caterina, mother Trina, Marlena, Kathy Ruble, and father John in celebration at the May PCMGA meeting.
An Interview with Marlena Bobrowski
Our talented 2026 PCMGA Scholarship winner is Marlena Bobrowski who received a $2000 scholarship for her first year of Landscape Architecture studies at Purdue. She was recognized for her excellent references and grades. Below is my interview with Marlena.
Wilma - Why do you want to study horticulture architecture? What intrigues you?
Marlena - I have always enjoyed being outdoors and working with plants, so landscape architecture felt like the perfect fit. What intrigues me most is combining creativity with nature to design outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional. The profession will allow me to make a positive impact by creating sustainable spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Wilma- What is your personal experience with gardening and landscape design?
Marlena - I have experience with gardening, landscaping, and helping maintain outdoor spaces. I enjoy planting and taking care of plants. I also like designing garden layouts. This summer, I have gained additional hands-on experience working for a local landscaping business where I help with planting, landscape installation, and plant care.
Wilma - After you graduate, what would be your dream job? In what part of the country/world?
Marlena - My dream is to become a licensed landscape architect and work for a design firm that creates parks, community landscapes, and public spaces. I'd love to stay in the Midwest, especially in Indiana or surrounding states, but I'm also open to working wherever I have the opportunity to design meaningful outdoor spaces.
Final comments
Marlena - I really appreciate you taking the time to feature me in the Garden Thyme newsletter. I'm honored to have received the 2026 Porter County Master Garden Association Scholarship! Thank you again, Marlena Bobrowski
2026 PCMGA Grant Recipients
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2026 Grant Winners and Philanthropy Committee Members
The 2026 PCMGA Philanthropy Committee successfully oversaw the distribution of $7,000 in funding this spring. The committee approved 10 grants which will “Help Others Grow”!
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St Agnew Day Services: Funds for mulch and edible garden supplies for adult clients.
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Valpo Family YMCA: Expansion of their children’s teaching garden.
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Shirley Heinze Land Trust: Creation of a permaculture-focused demonstration garden.
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St. John’s United: Support for ongoing efforts to grow food for local food pantries and churches.
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Hilltop Children’s Garden: Purchase of garden supplies and tools for children.
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TradeWinds Services: Installation of raised garden beds at a new group home for their Healthy Eating Program.
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Thomas Park Bandshell: landscaping support for the Duneland Garden Club following park repairs.
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Jibek Mbwakawen: Funding for a turtle-shaped Potawatomi garden to integrate indigenous practices with sustainable teaching.
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Liberty Bible Church: Support for “Bouquets of Blessing’ program providing bouquets to community members in need.
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Brinka Cross Garden: Planting peonies and lilacs as part of a park renovation project.
Thanks to all the recipients for applying for our PCMGA grants. Congrats on your fine projects! More information about these good works can be gained by contacting our Philanthropy Committee.
Thanks to the PCMGA Philanthropic Committee:
Marty Seroczynski—Co Chair
Kathy Ruble—Co Chair
Robert Evans
Terry Marsch
Jackie Carroll
Sue Spelde
Gloria Potter
Joanne Adank
Gordana Gerbick
Amy Carmody
2026 GRANTS + SCHOLARSHIPS
2026 Grant and Scholarship Winners
GUIDELINES + APPLICATIONS
REVIEW, EVALUATION & DECISIONS
The PCMGA Philanthropy Committee is responsible for reviewing, evaluating, and making recommendations on all applications. These recommendations will be presented to the PCMGA membership for their approval. All decisions of the PCMGA are final.
SPECIAL MESSAGE: See Guidelines and Applications below.
Porter County Master Gardeners Association believes in cultivating not just gardens, but also opportunities for our community. Over the years we've proudly contributed more than $90,000 in grants and scholarships to support local initiatives and educational programs. PCMGA events like the Garden Walk and Gardening Show, continue to make this possible.
By our dedication to philanthropy, we aim to Help Others Grow in more ways than one. To learn more about how to apply for a grant or scholarship and to access the necessary forms, see the important links below.