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First Ladies Garden
Honoring the past, beautifying the present and planting seeds for the future.
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First Ladies Garden
Honoring the past, beautifying the present and planting seeds for the future.
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First Ladies Garden
Honoring the past, beautifying the present and planting seeds for the future.
First Ladies Garden
Welcome
In 2013, the First Ladies Garden was approved by the Harding Board of Trustees as a tribute to Leah Burks and to the other four women who graciously served the University in the capacity of First Lady.
About the Gardens
There are five distinctive gardens reflecting their favorite plants and their love for gardening. In every family, there is a
"First Lady", a woman who sacrificed for her children to have the opportunity to have a Christian education at Harding. This garden is full of tributes to mothers, grandmothers, mothers-in-law and Women for Harding.
In addition to honoring women, the Walls of Honor to recognize parents, grandparents, grandchildren and graduates. The garden provides a green space where people can reflect on the stories of ordinary people who have done extraordinary things to honor God and their families.
The brick corridor which connects the front of campus to Legacy Park is named the Neale and Treva Pryor Legacy Walk in honor of two of Harding’s most beloved icons. During Homecoming, the first phase of the garden will be dedicated.
The First Ladies

Woodson Harding Armstrong
1924-1936 Wife of Harding’s first President J.N. Armstrong

Sally Benson
1936-1965 Wife of Harding’s second President George S. Benson

Louise Ganus
1965-1987 Wife of Harding’s third President Clifton L. Ganus, Jr.

Leah Burks
1987-2013 Wife of Harding’s fourth President David B. Burks

Ann McLarty
2013 - Present Wife of Harding’s fifth President Bruce D. McLarty
From the President
First Ladies Garden Introduction
Coming Soon
The second phase will include an outdoor classroom, a secret garden and a courtyard with tables for chess and checkers with plans for completion in the spring. We invite you to come to the garden, relax, read the stories, and enjoy the beauty of God's flowers in this peaceful setting.
How you can help
We're excited about progress already being made on the garden and welcome you to become a part of this inspiring project.
Contact Us
Mailing address:
Harding University
Alumni Relations
Box 10768
Searcy, AR 72149-5615