Suzanne Smith Tapped for County 'Profiles' Award

Submitted by Kara McGowan

Suzanne Smith, president of the Wagner Farm Arboretum, was honored with a “Profiles in Positive Aging Award” from the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services. 

The award recognizes Somerset County residents age 60 and above who currently make contributions and set examples for others by serving as teachers, mentors, leaders, entertainers, etc. to positively impact people in mind, body and spirit and enhance quality of life.

Smith has served as president of the Arboretum for the past nine years. She has actively worked with residents, community members, volunteers, local government and other stakeholders to establish a vision for the Arboretum. She has overseen new programs and initiatives, led the development of a master plan, and more.

“Suzanne uses her time, talents and energy to create a center that gets people outdoors and rallying around healthful activities,” said Meera Rao, a member of the Executive Committee of the Arboretum. “She also provides an avenue for families to engage in healthy activities together, and for volunteers to participate in an organization that is dedicated to the preservation of the beauty and deep nurturing spirit in nature that nourishes us body and soul.”

Smith was honored along with nine other individuals by the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders at their monthly meeting on May 14.

“It is a great pleasure for me to receive this award,” Smith said. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and enthusiasm of our volunteers and community members  that work tirelessly to make the Arboretum an important part of our community.”