PICNIC IN THE PARK 2026

The Sally Michel Award, named after Parks & People Foundation founder, goes to an individual making a significant impact in Baltimore out of his/her love for Baltimore.

The Sally Michel Award honors the remarkable legacy of Sally Michel, a tireless advocate for Baltimore’s parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces. As a founder and longtime leader of the Parks & People Foundation, Sally dedicated her life to building a greener, more equitable city—one where every resident could access nature, beauty, and community.

Her work bridged environmental stewardship with civic engagement, bringing together public agencies, nonprofits, and neighborhoods to reimagine Baltimore’s urban landscape. Sally believed deeply in the power of collaboration and the importance of listening to communities. Her vision helped transform vacant lots into vibrant gardens, neglected parks into thriving public spaces, and young people into environmental leaders.

The Sally Michel Award recognizes individuals or organizations who carry forward her spirit—those who demonstrate bold civic vision, a commitment to environmental justice, and a passion for creating inclusive, sustainable urban spaces. Recipients of this award embody Sally’s belief that parks and people belong together, and that lasting change begins at the grassroots.

The Jonna Lazarus Parks Award is presented to someone who is making green space, parks, playgrounds, and trails a staple in Baltimore.

This award honors the life and legacy of Jonna Roberta Gane Lazarus, a visionary landscape designer, artist, and passionate advocate for native horticulture. Jonna’s career spanned decades of creative and environmental impact—from her early work with Crozier Associates to founding her own firms, Jonna Lazarus Design and Higgins Lazarus Landscape Architecture, LLC. Her designs transformed public and private spaces with sensitivity, beauty, and ecological awareness.

A graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology, Jonna furthered her studies at the George Washington University Landscape Architecture Design Program and the Longwood Gardens Certificate of Merit Program. Her artistic sensibility was shaped by her father, a graphic artist, and her love of craft and nature by her mother. These influences infused her work with a deep appreciation for design, the outdoors, and the human experience.

Jonna was a founding board member and trustee of the Parks & People Foundation, where her commitment to urban green spaces and community engagement left a lasting mark. She also served on the boards of Center Stage, Theater Project, and the Studio Art Center International, reflecting her broad support for the arts and civic life.

Known for her warmth, generosity, and transformative vision, Jonna defined friendship and hospitality. Whether entertaining guests with her legendary cooking or exploring nature with binoculars in hand, she brought joy and connection to every endeavor.

This award celebrates individuals who embody Jonna’s spirit—those who reclaim and reimagine green space to enrich communities, foster sustainability, and inspire through creativity and care.

The Eddie C and C Sylvia Brown People Award is presented to an individual who has displayed unwavering dedication to promoting our mission of improving Baltimore through green space and education.

This award celebrates the enduring legacy of Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown, whose philanthropic leadership and commitment to equity, education, and the arts have transformed communities across Baltimore and beyond. Through their generosity and vision, the Browns have championed initiatives that uplift underrepresented voices, expand access to opportunity, and foster cultural enrichment.

Eddie C. Brown, a trailblazing investment executive and founder of Brown Capital Management, and C. Sylvia Brown, a dedicated advocate for education and civic engagement, have together built a legacy rooted in excellence, empowerment, and service. Their support of institutions such as the Maryland Institute College of Art, the Baltimore Museum of Art, and numerous educational and health organizations reflects a deep belief in the power of creativity and community.

The Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Award honors individuals or organizations whose work exemplifies the Browns’ values—visionary leadership, transformative impact, and a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion. Recipients of this award are recognized for advancing meaningful change and inspiring others to build a more just and vibrant society.