About us
A small society with deep roots.
The Amherst Orchid Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion, cultivation, and conservation of orchids — a friendly place to share knowledge and a deep passion for these unique plants.
Our Mission
Dedicated to every orchid grower.
We are dedicated to all orchid growers, new and experienced, who love orchids and want to learn the many aspects of orchid care. We are excited to share information and experiences that promote education and camaraderie with club members and the public.
Our Core Values
Three principles that root everything we do.
Education
Sharing comprehensive knowledge on orchid care, growing, and conservation.
Comraderie
Building a welcoming community of enthusiasts — from first-timers to lifelong collectors.
Appreciation
Promoting the beauty and remarkable diversity of the orchid family.
Our History
Rooted in the Pioneer Valley since the early 1980s.
The Amherst Orchid Society was formed in the early 1980s as a non-profit organization for people to learn about orchids. Since then, we have grown into a vital regional resource. Those of us with a wealth of experience are eager to share our knowledge — continuing the tradition of helping all growers, from beginners with their first phalaenopsis to experienced collectors.
What We Do · Benefits of Membership
More than meetings — a season-by-season community.
Monthly Educational Meetings
Join us on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except February, August, and September) for presentations from regional experts, show-and-tell, and Q&A. Occasional beginner programs start early to help new enthusiasts get going.
Annual Orchid Show & Sale
The highlight of our year. Our annual show (typically in February) is a spectacular event featuring hundreds of blooming plants, vendor sales, and judging by the American Orchid Society (AOS).
Grower Resources
Members have access to our library, newsletters, and a community of mentors ready to help you troubleshoot problems and improve your culture techniques.
Meet Our Leadership
The volunteers who keep us blooming.
Executive Officers
President
Stacy Soldato
Vise President
Marjorie Tanguay
Vise President
Aimee Hudon
Treasurer
Zoe Loughman
Recording Secretary
Holly Rainaud-Loss
Corresponding Secretary
Maryanne Laukaitis
Committee Chairs
Conservation Chair
Alex Loss
AOS Liason
Marc Gray
Vise President
Aimee Hudon
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Marc Gray
Board of Directors
Steve LaValley
Board of Directors
Aimee Hudon
Officer names are updated annually. Contact amherstorchid@gmail.com to reach the board.