Jennifer Blanchard coordinates the medicinal plant certification program at Louisiana State University and has developed a new course focused on the native indigenous plants of Louisiana. With over two decades of experience in botanical research and environmental sciences studies, she is enthusiastic about sharing information on the propagation and use of native medicinal plants in the landscape and the value-added benefits these plants provide to human health and the environment. As a botanist and Instructor of Horticulture in the School of Plant Environmental and Soil Sciences at LSU, she is also a PhD student with a research focus on the extraction of natural
plant products for use in industry. Jennifer’s botanical work focuses on native medicinal plants of Louisiana which extends to the Southeastern region of the U.S. Ms. Blanchard has earned both a Bachelor’s in Environmental Biology (University of Southern Mississippi, 2006) and a Master’s in Earth and Environmental Science (University of New Orleans, 2009). While in graduate school, she began working for Colorado State University under renowned botanist Dr. Charles Allen. After completing her master’s degree, she worked as a research botanist for The Pollinator Partnership of North America. Cost for non-members $10; members $5. This program is sponsored by The Crosby Arboretum Foundation.