KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Longwood Gardens has been named one of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces 2026 by Newsweek and Plant A Insights Group, a national recognition that emphasizes the horticultural institution’s efforts to attract and retain talent as it continues to expand its operations and public mission.
The ranking is based on an analysis of publicly available data and a confidential nationwide employee survey evaluating workplace culture, leadership and professional development, Longwood announced.
The recognition comes as Longwood employs more than 700 full-time, part-time, seasonal staff and students, along with more than 600 volunteers, who maintain its 1,100-acre property while supporting conservation, education, research and visitor operations.
“At Longwood, we’ve worked hard to build a workplace defined by innovation, belonging, exceptional benefits, and real investment in our team’s professional growth — and this honor affirms that those efforts are making a difference,” Shelley Dinehart, Longwood’s chief human resources and culture officer, said.
Longwood attributed its recognition to investments in employee benefits and career development. The organization offers healthcare programs, retirement matching, tuition reimbursement, parental leave, caregiver support, service awards, bonuses and professional development opportunities aimed at supporting recruitment and long-term employee retention.
Founded in 1906 after industrialist Pierre S. du Pont purchased farmland near Kennett Square to preserve a collection of historic trees, Longwood has grown into one of the nation’s best-known public gardens. The property now spans 1,100 acres of gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains and conservatories.
The institution also expanded its conservation footprint in 2024 through the acquisition of the 505-acre Longwood at Granogue estate near Wilmington, Delaware, broadening its preservation and educational mission.
Longwood Gardens is open daily and is part of the Philadelphia region’s America’s Garden Capital network of more than 30 public gardens.
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