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MURRELLS INLET, S.C. – Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark on South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, recently honored a remarkable family as well as several outstanding individuals for their enduring impact on the non-profit organization. Their philanthropy, years of dedicated service, and shared passion for nature exemplify the values that drive Brookgreen’s mission to conserve the area’s natural flora and fauna, while preserving the rich history of the Lowcountry for future generations.
“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support and leadership of the Brookgreen board members and volunteers honored this year,” says Page Kiniry, president and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens. “Their generous contributions – whether a philanthropic gift or the invaluable donation of their time – have helped ensure Brookgreen Gardens continues to thrive as a cornerstone of art, history, and education for years to come.”
John S. Rainey Philanthropy Award
Brookgreen Gardens awarded the Coker family the 2024 John S. Rainey Philanthropy Award in October, recognizing the family’s nearly nine decades of dedication to the Gardens, supporting its work in sculpture conservation, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of the history and natural beauty of the region. The award, established in 2017, is named in honor of philanthropist John Stringer Rainey, who was a Brookgreen Gardens Trustee and Huntington Society member for many years. A representative from the Coker family has served on Brookgreen’s board since 1936, starting with David Robert Coker, and continuing today with Rhonda Coker, who currently serves. In addition to their ongoing leadership, the family has made significant contributions to Brookgreen through decades of philanthropic support, including Charles and Joan Coker’s major gifts to the Master Sculptor Program and the renovation of the Lowcountry Zoo entrance.
Order of the Palmetto Award
In December 2024, Dr. Hal Holmes, chair of the Brookgreen Gardens Board of Trustees, was awarded South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Palmetto, by Governor Henry McMaster for his statewide service and exceptional contributions to South Carolina’s cultural and historical preservation. Dr. Holmes has been a dedicated member of the Brookgreen Gardens Board of Trustees since 1991 and board chair since 2021. Under his leadership, Brookgreen Gardens has flourished as a nationally recognized museum, botanical garden, historic site, and zoo, drawing attention and accolades to the state. His unwavering commitment to South Carolina’s arts, culture, and community engagement, along with his philanthropic efforts, have made a lasting impact on both Brookgreen Gardens and the state of South Carolina.
Order of the Silver Cresent Award
In December 2024, Mildred Doud, a longtime volunteer at Brookgreen Gardens, was honored with the Order of the Silver Crescent by Governor Henry McMaster. This prestigious honor, an auxiliary award to the Order of the Palmetto, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities or regions. Doud’s remarkable commitment to Brookgreen spans more than 30 years, beginning in 1993, during which she has served in various capacities, including as a Sculpture Garden and Wildlife Park docent. Her contributions include sharing her passion for animals through the "Meet the Animals" program, as well as applying her artistic talents – honed during her career as an art educator – to murals and projects throughout the Gardens. Doud has also served as a historic ambassador for Brookgreen’s Scottish deerhound mascot, “Angus,” and has mentored countless new volunteers. Her unwavering dedication to Brookgreen Gardens’ mission exemplifies the exceptional service that the Order of the Silver Crescent seeks to honor.
For more information about Brookgreen Gardens, visit www.brookgreen.org.
