Exceptional leadership in education to the perennial industry has earned Niagara College professor Paul Zammit the 2023 Educator Award from the Perennial Plant Association (PPA).
Zammit, who teaches in the School of Environment and Horticulture, was presented with the award during PPA’s 2023 National Symposium in Niagara Falls, July 24-28. The Educator Award is one of eight Special Recognition Awards handed out annually by PPA.
“It is an incredible honour and thrill to be recognized by this international and professional organization, a group that over the years has exposed me to so much industry information and experiences and taught me so much,” Zammit said. “The Perennial Plant Association is made up of an amazing group of individuals (industry family) who are very keen on sharing knowledge (and plants) through their vast network and contacts.”
Zammit joined the faculty at Niagara College in 2020 after years at a retail garden centre in Toronto and then as the Director of Horticulture at the Toronto Botanical Garden. He’s frequently invited to speak as a gardening expert at seminars, on podcasts and on radio shows, including CBC Radio One.
Evan DiValentino, Associate Dean, School of Environment & Horticulture, described Zammit as “an absolute leader in the horticulture field” who’s well respected for his expertise.
“When Paul talks, people listen,” DiValentino said. “His tireless commitment to horticulture and sustainability is evident outside and inside the classroom. Paul consistently leverages his industry connections to enhance curriculum and provide access for our students to leading-edge concepts and plant materials.
“His Educator Award from the PPA is a testament to his knowledge, experience, hard work and strong relationships.”
PPA Canada Region Director Jon Peter said Zammit “continually inspires people,” adding: “Paul brings out the best in people (and plants) around him and does this with creativity, intelligence and enthusiasm.”
Shannon Currey, PPA Southern Region Director and chair of the Special Awards Committee noted it was Zammit’s work across a range of educational settings that set him apart from other Educator Award nominees.
“He’s helped people build horticultural skills in a commercial environment via public garden programs and at an educational institution,” Currey said. “Paul continually inspires people and conveys the joy and enthusiasm he feels for the profession.”
For Zammit, who’s worked in the horticulture industry for more than three decades, joining NC three years ago gave him an opportunity to give back to the next generation entering the industry.
“Joining the team at Niagara College has been an unexpected and amazing next chapter in my career,” he said. “In particular, I enjoy meeting, teaching and learning with and from the incredible diversity of students in the program. The students excite and inspire me!”
