Sylvia Vander Sluis

I started building my own gardens at the same time Tower Hill was created. As a businessperson, artist, outdoor lover, and gardener, this botanical center has impressed me on many levels. Since the late '80s, when I bought an unfinished house in Lancaster, I have drawn inspiration and delight walking its paths. As new gardens were added and existing ones evolved, I could always find intriguing textures, colors, and shapes that I wanted to photograph, remember for my own place, or just enjoy in the moment.

Tower Hill became a place of relaxation and sensory stimulation that I enjoyed returning to again and again. The vegetable garden became one of my favorites, with its reliable riot of color and yearly change of theme.

It seemed natural for me to start leading garden tours, supporting special events, and sharing my enthusiasm with others. Warm and knowledgeable, the horticultural director whom I knew, Joann Vieira, always treated me as a friend - I often saw her out in her golf cart on the trails.

Over these 30+ years, as the Master Plan has evolved, Tower Hill's skill in planning, fundraising, and executing on its vision has continually impressed me. I decided to leave a portion of my estate to this organization. From my perspective, New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill honors its legacy, while also innovating and expanding its reach to ever-broader audiences to remain relevant in its time. It is a worthy institution to invest in!