Volunteer Spotlight: Diane Berson

Rooted in Care, Growing Young Minds 

How Ms. Diane Berson Cultivates Curiosity and Community Engagement at the Columbus Botanical 

Diane brings a lifetime of dedication to nurturing young minds and a passion for gardening that beautifully blends in her role at Columbus Botanical Garden. Before volunteering here, Diane spent 35 years as a preschool teacher, shaping children’s early experiences with patience and care. She moved to Columbus in 2019 when her son began college nearby and decided to make this community her home. 

An avid gardener with a large personal garden, Diane was a familiar guest at the Garden even before she retired in 2021. After retiring, she began volunteering initially in horticulture, supporting wherever help was needed. However, after recovering from two abdominal surgeries in 2022, Diane shifted her focus to education, a role that allowed her to stay engaged without the physical demands of ground work. 

Her background as a preschool teacher and Boy Scout leader gives Diane a unique ability to connect with children of all ages. This makes her support of the Education Department, under Tabby Robinson’s guidance, a perfect fit. Diane gets to combine her love of gardening and working with kids—helping young visitors discover the wonder of nature in a way they might not experience elsewhere. 

One of Diane’s most rewarding experiences has been witnessing children’s fascination with the natural world. She explains: 

"I don’t think children now get enough exposure to the natural world. They come home from school and get on their devices until dinner time. I love to see children just light up when they learn something new that they don’t necessarily pick up in school." 

These moments, Diane says, are “priceless sparks of curiosity” that can inspire lifelong appreciation for the environment. 

Diane’s approach to cultivating community engagement is rooted in encouraging exploration and expression. She says, 

"I cultivate engagement by asking open-ended questions instead of just spouting off facts. It’s about encouraging children to express themselves as well." 

This interactive style deepens their connection to the Garden and empowers them to engage more meaningfully with the natural world. 

Through her heartfelt dedication, Diane not only nurtures plants but also cultivates a growing community of young learners, inspiring them to care for and connect with their environment. Her volunteer work enriches the Garden’s mission to foster education and community engagement, making her an invaluable member of the Columbus Botanical Garden family.