40 Under 40, Class of 2025

Megan Proska

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

Associate vice president

What 3 to 4 professional and/or personal accomplishments are you most proud of?

Spending the past 10 years as a horticulturist at the Dallas Arboretum, where I have played a key role in designing and executing large-scale seasonal displays for events like Dallas Blooms and Autumn at the Arboretum.
Through careful plant selection and strategic layouts, I have also developed year-round garden interest, ensuring the landscape remains vibrant beyond seasonal festivals. My passion for plants began early, as I started volunteering with the Botanical Research Institute of Texas at just 12 years old — an experience that deepened my appreciation for botanical science and conservation.
More recently, I have combined my love of horticulture with digital outreach by creating a social media platform focused on plants in pop culture. Through this, I help people recognize how plants shape their daily lives — even in the media they consume — bridging the gap between nature, entertainment and education.

What led you to work in the horticulture industry?

My journey into the horticulture industry began with my mom, an avid gardener who nurtured my love for plants from an early age. I spent most of my childhood outdoors, fascinated by the natural world. In sixth grade, a field trip to the Botanical Research Institute of Texas solidified my passion — I knew then that I wanted to be a botanist.
I began volunteering with the institute, which set me on a path to Texas A&M, where I earned a double degree in horticulture and entomology. My studies led to a fellowship at Kew Gardens, where I fell in love with public gardening and the impact it has on education and conservation. When I returned to the U.S., I applied to the Dallas Arboretum and have been there ever since, combining my passion for plants, design and public engagement to create meaningful green spaces.

What’s the best thing about your job? (Please select one)

Describe to a 6-year-old what you do in life?

I work in a big, beautiful garden where I design flower beds and make sure the plants are happy and healthy.

What are your favorite hobbies?

When you’re not working, what are 2 to 3 things we could find you doing?

Do you have any unusual talents, or can you tell us something interesting about yourself that other people may be surprised to find out?

I create and wear intricate costumes (cosplay) based on characters from pop culture, often incorporating botanical themes. I also present panels at conventions on the plants you might recognize in popular video games, movies and comics, exploring their real-world inspirations and ecological significance.
Beyond that, I stream video games while discussing the plants I encounter in-game, helping viewers see how deeply nature is woven into their favorite fictional worlds. It’s a unique way to bridge science, entertainment and education, making plant knowledge more engaging and accessible.

One thing you can’t live without?