Keynote Speakers

Missy Gable graduated from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Master of Science in Environmental Horticulture.  She continues to pursue personal and professional growth, training extensively with the American Management Association and completing the two year California Agricultural Leadership Foundation Fellowship in Strategic Leadership.   

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“Dr. A” as Allan Armitage likes to be called, is an emeritus professor at the University of Georgia, where he taught, conducted research and ran the university’s horticulture gardens. He is a published author, consultant and lecturer traveling from coast to coast sharing his passion for plants.

Dr. A can even be found on YouTube discussing everything from soil, edibles, new plant varieties, identifying plants, sharing test plants and of course wearing his distinctive hat.  Dr. A’s charming personality and love of all things horticulture is infectious and is sure to be a highlight of the conference.  Attendees will be able to purchase a selection of Dr. A’s 14 books onsite throughout the conference.  Book signings are scheduled for various authors throughout the conference so be sure to make time to get Dr. A’s autograph! 

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As Disneyland’s director of Horticulture and Resort Enhancement, Adam Schwerner is responsible for designing and maintaining the living beauty within the Resort. In his role, Schwerner oversees the landscaped and flower-filled lands, as well as the holiday, building and attraction décor teams. 

Prior to his work in Anaheim, Schwerner, was the director of the Chicago Park District’s multidisciplinary Department of Cultural and Natural Resources, where he spearheaded the Park District’s initiatives to forge bold, inclusive connections between the arts and Chicago’s neighborhoods by increasing arts presence - in all its permutations - throughout Chicago’s parks.  

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