Dr. Diane Relf: A Pioneer in Horticultural Therapy
Dr. Paula Diane Relf has been a trailblazer in horticultural therapy, dedicating her career to advancing research, education, and the practical applications of nature-based interventions. Her leadership and generosity have been instrumental in the development of our research database, supporting the dissemination of vital knowledge in the field.
Academic and Professional Background
Dr. Relf earned her Ph.D. in Horticulture from the University of Maryland in 1976, pioneering studies in horticultural therapy. She then served as a Professor and Extension Specialist at Virginia Tech from 1976 to 2003, where she integrated horticultural practices with therapeutic methodologies to enhance human well-being. She remains Professor Emeritus, continuing her influence in the field.
In 1973, Dr. Relf played a pivotal role in establishing what is now the American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA), serving as its president from 1975 to 1979 and shaping its mission. From 1989 to 2003, she chaired the International People-Plant Council, fostering global research and collaboration on the benefits of plant interactions.
Recognitions and Awards
Academic Honors and Fellowships
- Fellow of the American Society of Horticultural Sciences (ASHS) (2002) – Recognized for outstanding contributions to horticultural science.
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Fellowship (2000) – A prestigious international fellowship supporting her work in horticultural therapy.
- National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowship (1970-1973) – Awarded by the University of Maryland.
- Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (1966) and Pi Alpha Xi Floriculture Honorary Society (1971).
- Texas Tech Alumni Association Award of Recognition (1967) – Recognized as the Top Graduate in the School of Agriculture.
Professional Achievement Awards
- JSPPR Grand Award (2019) – Highest honor from the Japanese Society for People-Plant Relationships (JSPPR).
- American Horticultural Therapy Association (AHTA) Founders Award (2003) – Recognized for co-founding the National Council for Therapy and Rehabilitation through Horticulture (NCTRH), now AHTA.
- Selected as one of the Top 100 ASHS Members of the Late 20th Century (2001) – Honored for significant contributions to horticulture.
- American Horticultural Society National Horticultural Therapy Award (2000) – Recognized for exceptional work in promoting horticulture as therapy.
- Outstanding Extension Educator Award (1996) – Given by ASHS for career accomplishments in horticultural education.
- AHTA Awards for Service to Horticultural Therapy:
- Outstanding Service to Horticultural Therapy (1979) – Recognized for early contributions to the profession.
- John Walker Award for Professional Service (1984) – For advancing horticultural therapy as a recognized discipline.
- Professional Service Award (1984) – Acknowledging dedication to the field.
- Outstanding Southerner Award (1992) – Awarded by Southern Living Magazine for contributions to environmental and horticultural education.
- Gardener’s Choice Award (1987) – Recognized for leadership in establishing and co-chairing the first National Extension Master Gardener Conference.
- Southern Region of ASHS Extension Publication Award (1994) – Honored for The Virginia Gardener Easy Reference to Sustainable Landscape Management and Water Quality Protection.
Impact on the Research Database Project
Dr. Relf’s vision and expertise have been fundamental in shaping this research database, streamlining access to studies that support program development, funding applications, and evidence-based advocacy. Her guidance has directly influenced the database’s sorting features and contents.
Beyond her contributions to the research database, Dr. Relf has been a supporter of Root in Nature’s GrowTH Network. She has actively participated in Root in Nature events, lending her expertise to discussions that continue to inspire and educate the next generation of practitioners.
Thanks to her generous funding, thought leadership, and unwavering advocacy, this database and the broader horticultural therapy community will continue to benefit from her wisdom and passion. We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Relf for her invaluable contributions, ensuring her legacy will inspire future generations.
Dr. Relf's Research Papers
This section is dedicated to the extensive research contributions of Dr. Relf, showcasing a curated selection of their most influential papers. These studies highlight the depth and impact of Dr. Relf’s work in horticultural therapy, providing valuable insights for practitioners, researchers, and students seeking evidence-based knowledge in the field.
