October 2023: “Horticulture & Wellness” Brainstorming Event

Representatives from all across the Texas A&M System working in this subject matter area came together for a half-day brainstorming session to: (1) share a short summary of their mission and direction, as well as major research, outreach projects, or other banner programs; (2) ideate regarding potential collaborations among the entities represented to mitigate redundancies and/or capture synergies; and (3) identify unique or novel ways to enhance knowledge transfer and/or educate clientele as to the benefits of plants and greenscapes in improving mental and physical health. To set the stage for the meeting, Dr. Jay Maddock presented the Ellison Chair Distinguished Lecture the day prior entitled “Exploring the plant, greenspace, and human health connection.” (link provided below)

Distinguished lecture by Dr. Maddock to frame the issue

Introduction to the project

• • The Why:  The need and purpose of the project
  • Potential internal TAMU and Agency partners identified
  • Brainstorming event attendees
  • Brainstorming session agenda and intro slides
  • Brainwriting instructions and ideation sheet

Outcomes of the brainstorming session

1. 1. All 207 unique ideas generated and add-on notes
   2. The top 3 rated ideas from each table (summarized on the flipcharts)
   3. The final list of ideas after consolidating those with similar themes and removing duplication
   4. Full directory of potential internal partners identified to date
   5. Participants who stated interest in collaborating on the final list of ideas

• • Appendix A:  Original brainwriting worksheets
  • Appendix B:  Original flipcharts with green dots
  • Appendix C:  1-page primer on plants and wellness benefits
  • Appendix D:  News release regarding the brainstorming session

October 2024: Mini-Symposium 

Short presentations were made by individuals that had expressed an interest in working on the Initiative after the October 2023 brainstorming session.

Recording of “lightning talks” given by those interested in the Initiative.
Proposal to create the Initiative.
Brainstormed list of potential research and outreach projects.
Directory of those interested in the Initiative.

January 2025: Strategic Planning Session

Draft version of the PNHI strategic plan.
Directory of current and proposed PNHI members/affiliates.
Draft agenda for the January 9 strategic planning session.
Draft goals of the Initiative.
Network analysis provided by Dr. Meg Patterson.
Lightning talks by selected PNHI team members.

August 2025: PNHI Quarterly Meeting

The Plants, Nature, and Health Initiative (PNHI) hosted its quarterly meeting on August 6th, bringing together faculty, researchers, and other partners to share progress and explore new opportunities at the intersection of nature and human health.

The meeting opened with a warm introduction from Dr. Jay Maddock.

Updates were shared on PNHI’s 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, which focuses on advancing interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach to better understand and promote the health benefits of nature.

Several lightning talks showcased innovative research and applications:

• Dr. Charlie Hall discussed recent progress on the Plants, Nature and Health Initiative as well as the Economic Benefits of Plants and Green Spaces.
• Dr. Dario Ochoa-Trujano, PNHI’s postdoctoral researcher, shared his ongoing research as the PNHI’s lead on emerging approaches to nature-health interventions.
• Dr. Deyaun Jafari presented findings from the Agrihood Study, exploring the impact on how neighborhoods built around an agricultural farm has the potential to improve both individual and community well-being.
• Dr. Li Liqing discussed the Economic Value of Urban Green Spaces, emphasizing both health and financial benefits of green infrastructure in urban landscapes.
• Giovanna Lopez, Project Specialist of the PNHI, gave an overview of recent communication and outreach projects.

The meeting concluded with a collaborative discussion on next steps, including expanding internal and external partnerships, and refining strategies to measure and communicate impact.

October 2025: External Stakeholders Meeting

The Plants, Nature, and Health Initiative (PNHI) hosted its External Stakeholder Meeting, bringing together over 30 leaders from academia, industry, healthcare, and community organizations to strengthen partnerships and guide the Initiative’s strategic direction.

The meeting served as a collaborative forum to discuss ongoing PNHI research, education, and outreach efforts that explore the health benefits of human interaction with nature. Stakeholders shared insights on community engagement, interdisciplinary opportunities, and strategies to expand the reach of nature-based wellness programs across Texas and beyond.

Through open dialogue and shared expertise, participants helped identify key priorities for the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, including increasing public awareness, supporting cross-sector collaboration, and translating scientific findings into real-world impact.

PNHI extends sincere appreciation to all attendees for their continued partnership and commitment to advancing the connection between plants, nature, and human health.

October External Stakeholders Meeting Summary 

Transcribed Brainwriting Exercise for Expanding PNHI Outreach shows the 282 original ideas generated during the Partnership and Connections session on October 8th.

List of Prioritized Action Items shows the top 12 ideas generated from the brainwriting exercise.