Honor a loved one or commemorate a special date with a tribute bench,

a tree, or a space located in one of our display gardens, along a trail, or in

scenic natural areas at Matthaei Botanical Gardens or Nichols Arboretum.

Tribute gifts offer unique and lasting ways to recognize family, friends,

and events that have touched our lives while also supporting Matthaei-

Nichols. Single or collective donations can be used for any tribute.

Our tribute program

Tribute program highlights:

Questions?

Contact Ashley McCloskey, Tribute Coordinator: mccloska@umich.edu, 734.615.9475

Wh

at a

re w

e?

Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is a single unit within the University of Michigan that manages four separate properties:

Matthaei Botanical Gardens:

• The Great Lakes Gardens

• Bonsai & Penjing Garden

• Gaffield Children’s Garden

• The Medicinal Garden

• Large conservatory with three biomes

• 360 acres, six miles east of central campus

Horner-McLaughlin Woods:

• Oak-hickory woodlands

• Small vernal pools and streams

• Buttonbush swamp

• 90 acres, about a mile north of Matthaei on Dixboro

• Trail entrance through Goodrich Preserve on Dixboro

Nichols Arboretum:

• The Peony Garden

• Heathdale Collection of Appalachian Plants

• Centennial Shrub Collection

• Alex Dow Field

• 123 acres on central campus

Mud Lake Bog:

• Large wetland area with swamp hardwood forest

• Our most rugged property

• Used for research and by U-M faculty, staff and students

• 260 acres near Whitmore Lake, Mich.; adjacent to Independence Lake County Park. No trails or public entrance.

The Botanical Gardens visitor center, conservatory, and display gardens are open daily fall and winter 10 am-4:30 pm; until 8 pm on Wednesdays. Trails are open dawn to dusk. Spring and summer, Matthaei is open 10 am-8 pm daily. Nichols Arboretum is open daily dawn until dusk. Admission to both properties is free.

Matthaei is closed Thanksgiving day, Christmas Eve and day, and New Year’s Eve.

Matthaei: 1800 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor

Nichols Arboretum: 1610 Washington Hts., Ann Arbor

On the coverRecent University of Michigan student interns in our Nature Academy program. Matthaei-Nichols is the center for rich and diverse nature-based experiences for the university and its surrounding communities. The Nature Academy is focused on training a new generation of environmental leaders in sustainability, conservation, and ecological restoration. Each summer, dozens of U-M students from across campus help us achieve our mission and goals while taking with them real-life experience for their future careers.

Membership impact

Members enjoy a multitude of benefits here & beyond:

• Free parking at Matthaei

• 10% off Garden Store

and plant sale purchases

• Friends newsletter and

e-news subscriptions

• Discounts and presale

opportunities at plant sales

• Bi-annual curator’s tours

• Shakespeare in the Arb ticket

reservations and pre-performance

talk by Shakespeare director

• Member benefits at

hundreds of participating gardens,

museums, and cultural centers

across the country

• Six free passes for youth & family

activity programs throughout

the year

Benefits are based on membership level. Visit our website to find the best

membership level for you! mbgna.umich.edu/support

Thanks to our members, we get things done! Here’s a look at what membership dollars funded in 2017:

• Internship opportunities for more

than 40 U-M students from across

campus

• Native Michigan orchids in the Jean

Avis Wilson Native Orchid Garden

at Matthaei

• Intern-made resting spots created

from invasive woody plants for

turtles in Willow Pond

• Planning and implementation of

a new trail route at the Arb that

will address trail erosion

Member benefits

A volunteer scares up a reaction from the audience during a storytelling session in "Pumpkins, Lanterns & Leaves," one of the 26 nature-based programs we offered last year.

Matthaei-Nichols Member Guide

2018Dat

e Sen

sitiv

e Mat

eria

l

Non

-Pro

fitO

rgan

izatio

nU

. S. P

osta

gePA

IDAn

n Ar

bor,

MI

Perm

it N

o. 1

44

U-M

Reg

ents

Mic

hae

l J. B

ehm

, Gra

nd

Bla

nc

Mar

k J.

Ber

nst

ein

, An

n A

rbo

r

Shau

na

Ryd

er D

igg

s, G

ross

e Po

inte

Den

ise

Ilitc

h, B

ing

ham

Far

ms

An

dre

a Fi

sch

er N

ewm

an, A

nn

Arb

or

An

dre

w C

. Ric

hn

er, G

ross

e Po

inte

Par

k

Ro

n W

eise

r, A

nn

Arb

or

Kat

her

ine

E. W

hit

e, A

nn

Arb

or

Mar

k S.

Sch

lisse

l (ex

offi

cio)

cari

ng fo

r na

ture

, enr

ichi

ng li

fe18

00

N. D

ixb

oro

Rd

. A

nn

Arb

or

MI

48

105

Ro

ber

t E

. Gre

se,

D

irec

tor

Kar

en S

ikke

ng

a,

A

sso

ciat

e D

irec

tor

Mer

edit

h O

lso

n,

D

irec

tor

of

Dev

elo

pm

ent

m

ero

lso

n@

um

ich

.ed

u

7

34.6

47.

784

7

Ash

ley

McC

losk

ey,

M

emb

ersh

ip C

oo

rdin

ato

r

m

cclo

ska@

um

ich

.ed

u

734

.615

.94

75

mb

gn

a.u

mic

h.e

du

Pri

nte

d o

n 3

0%

rec

ycle

d fi

ber

.

Thank you, Nature Academy interns!

Wh

o a

re w

e?

From students to visitors to children, volunteers, U-M faculty, community groups,

and more, we serve a huge number of people and programs. The 2017 numbers:

2,796U-M students using our sites

47 faculty and student research

projects; 44 researchers

135,000:Visitors to Matthaei

FY 2017

330,000:Visitors to the Arb

FY 2017

60 classes; 44 instructors;

38 interns; 1,321 student volunteers

3,620School field-trip participants

60 youth-ed program

participants; 94 field trips;

13 youth-ed programs

22 nonprofits

partners; 140 programs

26 Matthaei-

Nichols-sponsored

nature-based

programs

1,829

Volunteers; 16,928 hours—

equal to 8.5 full-time employees!

∞ Name a tree: $2,500*

∞ Name a bench: $5,000-7,500*

∞ Name a space: $7,500+

(e.g., a peony bed)*

∞ Continued maintenance of

tree, bench, or space

∞ Tax-deductible donation

∞ Digital archive of each tribute

available on Tribute Tracker

database on our website

∞ Anodized aluminum plaque

identifying the name of the

person(s) honored

∞ Recognition in our annual report

(*Time limited)

MARCH

Photography Exhibit: Elements of ChangeThrough March 18

Diane Zoellmer's photographs capture the many moods of Michigan's

shorelines as they change minute by minute and hour by hour. Free.

Director's Circle Event: Michigan's Native Plants as Interpreted and Curated by Native AmericansSat., March 3, 2 pm

A presentation by Ferris State University's Dr. Scott M. Herron. Includes a discussion on wild rice eco-cultural restoration and on engaging tribal communities on heritage seeds and the role of the Great Lakes Gardens in education about native plants. Member benefit: Invitation to this members-only event.

Faerie Door Workshops (2 sessions)Sat., March 10 (9:30-11 am; 11:30 am-1 pm)

The faeries return to Matthaei! Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu). $

Ann Arbor Orchid Society Show & SaleSat. & Sun., March 17 (noon-4:30) & 18 (10 am-4:30 pm)Orchids and orchid-growing accessories for sale in this annual show that features displays of orchids in bloom and more. Cosponsored by Matthaei-Nichols and the Ann Arbor Orchid Society. Free.

Just DesertsSat., March 31

Make a desert garden. Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu). $

APRIL

U-M Residential College Student Performance: Ten Blocks on the Camino Real, by Tennessee WilliamsSat. & Sun., April 7 & 8, 7:30 pm, conservatory

Kate Mendeloff directs this capstone project of the LSA Drama Major: Tennessee Williams's play about the journey of Kilroy and his effort to overcome the "rugged deal" that life has dealt him. Free; limited seating.

Super Seeds!Sat., April 7

Explore how seeds are made, make a seed pot to take home. Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu). $

Art Exhibit: Artists at WorkApril 7-May 28

Art in a variety of media by Matthaei-Nichols staff and volunteers. Free.

Volunteer Appreciation WeekApril 15-21

Volunteers make the wheels turn at Matthaei-Nichols. Join us as we celebrate and honor our volunteers, who contribute many thousands of hours of their time each year. Events TBD.

MAY

What about the Balcony? A Talk by Shakespeare in the Arb Director Kate MendeloffThurs., May 31, 7 pm, Matthaei Botanical Gardens auditorium

Kate Mendeloff talks about the challenges and opportunities of staging Romeo and Juliet, a first-time performance in the Arb of the bard's tragedy. Join us for music, food, and a behind-the-scenes look at these al fresco performances. Member benefit: Invitation to this members-only event.

JUNE

Children's Nature Play Pop-Up Programs Monday mornings, June-August, Gaffield Children's Garden

Free outdoor hands-on activities for children. Look for more information and a list of programs in our spring-summer newsletter. Free. Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu).

Check our website and Facebook page for summer activities for kids.

Bonsai in Bloom: Satsuki Azalea June 2 & 3

A display of satsuki azalea bonsai in bloom. Includes bonsai workshops. The satsuki azalea are on loan from Ohio collector and U-M alumnus Dr. Melvyn Goldstein. Details TBA in our print and digital newsletters. Member benefit: Discount on workshops.

Art Exhibit: On The Wing - Michigan's Local & Migratory Birds June 2-Aug. 12Artist Astrid Monique Padilla’s drawings and paintings reveal the wonder of local birds as autonomous beings, neighbors, and travelers, worthy of respect and consideration in their own right. Free.

Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden Season Memorial Day through mid-June (approximate time)The largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America comes alive in spring with as many as 10,000 blooms at peak. Visit our dedicated peony website for bloom updates as the season progresses, beginning mid-May: peony.mbgna.umich.edu. Free.

Peony Blossoms & Pure Melodies Sun., June 3, 2 pm (rain date: June 10)A concert featuring Chinese flower songs performed by local musicians. Sponsored by the U-M Confucius Institute & Matthaei-Nichols. Free.

Shakespeare in the Arb: Romeo and JulietThurs.-Sun., June 7-10; 14-17; 21-24, 6:30 pm

A first-ever performance of Romeo and Juliet. Directed by Kate Mendeloff of the U-M Residential College and performed by U-M students and community players. Info and ticket prices to come. Member benefit: Ticket discount and reservations. $

JULY-AUGUST

Things with WingsSun., July 29, 1-4 pm

A family-friendly program featuring crafts, face-painting,

butterflies, birds of prey, and more. Free.

Nature Academy Poster ExhibitAug. 17-Sept. 22

A display of posters describing the projects that our Nature Academy U-M student summer interns worked on throughout the season. Free.

Ann Arbor Bonsai Society Show & SaleSat. & Sun., Aug. 25 & 26

A large display of bonsai, bonsai demos, bonsai accessories and materials, and more. $3 admission per adult (12 and under free) payable at the door. $

SEPTEMBER

Student Welcome Week: Shakespeare in the Arb RevivalSun. & Mon., Sept. 2 & 3, 5 pm

Director Kate Mendeloff brings back the summer 2018 production of Romeo & Juliet in two performances for students only. Free. Student ID required.

Celebration of Long-time MembersFri., Sept. 14, 6:30 pmAn event to honor longstanding Matthaei-Nichols members. Garden tours, food, and refreshments. Details to come in summer. Member benefit: Members-only invitation.

Cactus & Succulent Society Exotic Plant SaleSat. & Sun., Sept. 15 & 16, 10 am-4:30 pmCactus, succulents, bromeliads, supplies, books, and art prints for sale. Presenter: MI Cactus & Succulent Soc. and SE Michigan Bromeliad Soc. Free.

OCTOBER

Harvest Festival at the Campus FarmSun., Oct. 7, 1-4 pmJoin Campus Farm student volunteers and folks from the U-M Sustainable Food Program for an afternoon of food, music, and celebration.

Pumpkins, Lanterns, & Leaves Two evenings: Fri., Oct. 19 & Sat., Oct. 20

An after-hours, family-friendly Halloween celebration. A ticketed event; member discounts apply. Ticket information available in September. Member benefit: Ticket discount. $

Zombie Run - Run for the Arb, Run for Your Life!Sat., Oct. 27, 5 pm

Nichols Arboretum is an obstacle course of marauding zombies in this 5K run/walk over the Arb's trails. Can you survive to the finish line? Registration begins spring 2018. Member benefit: Registration discount. $

NOVEMBER

Kids Are Chefs, Too!Sat., Nov. 10, 10 am-noon

A culinary exploration of plants, spices, and holiday recipes. Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu).$

Holiday Exhibit: Beautiful Bugs - The Amazing Insects of Our Global Ecosystems Nov. 24, 2017–Jan. 6, 2019 (closed Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Open New Year’s day)

A look at the multitude of insects that live in the world's ecosystems represented in the conservatory. Also includes seasonal flowers, decorated trees, kids activities, holiday items for sale, and more. Member discount in the Garden Store. Free.

Holiday Art ExhibitNov. 24, 2017–Jan. 6, 2018

A display of art created by U-M students, faculty and staff, and members of the local community. Stay tuned for exhibit details later this year. Free.

DECEMBER

Holiday Artists MarketSat., Dec. 1, 10 am-4:30 pm

Dozens of local artists as well as U-M students and staff are selling their high-quality crafts and art. No member discount on merchandise. Free.

Winter Greens Workshop for KidsSat., Dec. 8

Create a seasonal masterpiece! Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu).$

Father ChristmasSat., Dec. 15, noon-2 pm

The annual visit by the real McCoy, Father Christmas. In town for one day only. Free.

Bugs Don't Bug Me!Sat., Dec. 15

Discover the beauty of insects and create a bug ornament to take home. Visit our website or Facebook page for details (mbgna.umich.edu). $

20

18 e

ven

ts &

p

rog

ram

min

g

Indicates events at Matthaei

Indicates events at Nichols

Family/kids program Member benefit applies

$ Fee-based program

Peonies Galore Sale Member HourSat., June 2, 9-10 am

Member benefit: 10% discount at members-only pre-sale.

Peonies Galore SaleSat., June 2, 10 am

Bring some vintage beauty to your garden with our heirloom varieties of peonies. Sale held adjacent to the historic Nichols Arboretum Peony Garden. Plants sell out quickly; arrive early!

SPRING SALES

Mother’s Day Weekend Plant Sale Member HourSat., May 12, 9-10 am

Member benefit: 20% discount at members-only pre-sale.

Mother’s Day Weekend Plant SaleSat. & Sun., May 12 & 13, 10 am-4:30 pm

Hanging basket and container plantings—perfect for Mom!—grown and designed on-site by staff and volunteers. All proceeds benefit Matthaei-Nichols.

Spring Artists MarketSat., May 12, 9 am-4:30 pm

Local artisans and craftspeople offer their unique items for sale in the auditorium at Matthaei. A great opportunity to discover the perfect, one-of-a-kind gift for Mom. (No member discount on merchandise.)

Kitchen Favorites Sale Member HourSat., May 19, 9-10 am

Member benefit: 20% discount at members-only pre-sale.

Kitchen Favorites Sale: A Campus Farm and U-M Sustainable Food Program FundraiserSat. & Sun., May 19 & 20, 10 am-4:30 pm

A sale of heirloom vegetables and herbs grown by U-M student volunteers in the student group Cultivating Community. Proceeds benefit Cultivating Community. Plus, Herb Study Group on hand with herb samples and information on growing herbs.

SPRING SALES

Wildflowers & Native Plants Sale Member HourSat., Oct. 6, 9-10 am

Member benefit: 20% discount at members-only pre-sale.

Wildflowers & Native Plants SaleSat. & Sun., Oct. 6 & 7, 10 am-4:30 pm

A sale of native herbaceous and woody plants, many grown at Matthaei Botanical Gardens by staff and volunteers. A local nursery will also be on hand with woody plants and trees.

FALL SALE

Learn more!

Visit us on our website: mbgna.umich.edu

Facebook@mbgna Instagram @matthaeinicholsOr sign up on our website for our free e-newsletter

Matthaei Botanical Gardens1800 N. Dixboro Rd.Ann Arbor, MI

Nichols Arboretum1610 Washington Hts.Ann Arbor, MI

734.647.7600