The Growing Place announces inaugural Growing the Future Scholarship winners

Posted March 26, 2026 4:44 pm

Submitted by The Growing Place Garden Center

Family-owned garden center marks milestone year by investing in the next generation

The Growing Place Garden Center in Naperville is proud to announce the recipients of its first Growing the Future Scholarship, recognizing outstanding students who demonstrate a passion for horticulture, environmental stewardship and community impact.

As The Growing Place enters its ninth decade, the Growing the Future Scholarship marks a meaningful new chapter in a long-standing commitment to not just plants, but people. This inaugural program was created to support and inspire the next generation of green industry innovators, designers and growers.

“Plants have always been at the core of what we do, but people are our purpose,” said Michael Massat, co-owner and third generation to take the helm. Michael and his sister Becca own and operate the two Chicago area locations in Naperville and Aurora.

“As we celebrate 90 years, launching this scholarship program allows us to give back in a way that invests in students who are already making a difference in their communities,” Becca said. “We’re excited to play a small part in helping them take their next step.”

The Growing the Future Scholars will be recognized at the Spring Opener event on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Aurora location:

• Anwita Debnath, Naperville North High School

• Damian Lopez, East Aurora High School

• Teresa Krysciak, homeschool (dual enrollment Joliet Junior College/Waubonsee Community College)

• Faustina Krysciak, Joliet Junior College

• Jay Schroeder, Metea Valley High School

• Clara Polderman, homeschool

• Maggie Kurcz, College of DuPage

· Kendall Winfrey, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Growing Place Garden Center has served the Chicago area community since 1936. Specializing in annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, houseplants, garden supplies, pottery and décor, The Growing Place is a destination committed to providing an exceptional experience, quality plants, gardening expertise and inspiration.

For information, visit www.thegrowingplace.com.