In this episode of GridgeFridge, we sit down with Ryan Dostal, the programs and events lead at Madison’s Allen Centennial Garden. With an undergraduate degree in history from Nebraska Wesleyan and a master’s in horticulture with an urban food systems emphasis from Kansas State University, Dostal brings a unique blend of historical knowledge and horticulture expertise to his work.
He’s also worked at George Washington’s Mount Vernon and George Mason’s Gunston Hall, two historic house museums located in Virginia, where he deepened his passion for sustainability, local agriculture and the simple beauties of horticulture.
Throughout this conversation, it is apparent Dostal’s not just growing plants—he’s growing community too, with events like the Harvest Festival and Plant Adoption Day. In this episode, we’ll dig into how public gardens can bring people together, boost knowledge about horticulture and food science and explore how college students can better support local food systems.
If interested in attending events, volunteering or supporting the Allen Centennial Garden, head over to the garden website to learn more.