Jen Wagar Receives the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award

With boundless energy, a heart for children, and a deep reverence for the natural world, Jennifer Wagar P’17, ’21, Lower School Science Teacher at Far Hills Country Day School, has been named a recipient of the prestigious Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award by The Garden Club of America. This national recognition honors individuals who inspire young learners to appreciate and protect the environment—a mission Jen has embodied throughout her career.

For more than a decade, Jen has brought science to life at Far Hills, transforming lessons into immersive, hands-on experiences that captivate even the youngest learners. Whether she’s leading a class outside to examine the seasonal rhythms of campus flora, helping students build pollinator gardens, or nurturing composting projects, Jen teaches students not just about the environment, but how to truly care for it.

Her innovative approach to science education seamlessly blends environmental literacy, sustainability practices, and joyful discovery. Under Jen’s guidance, Lower School students regularly explore topics such as ecosystems, plant biology, and conservation through dynamic fieldwork and creative projects that spark both curiosity and stewardship. "She doesn't just teach science," one colleague shared. "She nurtures scientists."

Jen’s impact at Far Hills is far-reaching. As a parent of two alumni and a beloved faculty member, she’s been part of the fabric of the community for years, weaving a legacy of learning that will endure for generations. Her students leave her classroom not only more knowledgeable but also more mindful of their surroundings, of their responsibilities, and of their place in the world.

We are proud to celebrate Jen’s achievements and thank her for sowing the seeds of environmental awareness and empathy in our youngest learners. Her work exemplifies the spirit of the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award and reminds us all of the lasting difference one passionate educator can make.