A Nurse, A Hiker, A Legacy: Norma Deen Juracsik’s Journey To Plant Science Philanthropy
Norma Deen Juracsik first toured the Danforth Center in 2002, shortly after the main building and greenhouses opened. “I was impressed and thought, ‘I’ll send them a donation!’” That first gift grew over the years—and so did her connection.
Norma Deen Juracsik enjoys a moment in the Danforth Center prairie, where her passion for nature and science come full circle.
Rooted in Nature and Advocacy
A retired nurse and passionate environmentalist, Norma spent years leading walking tours in Forest Park, hiking at the Shaw Nature Reserve and around the country, and engaging with organizations like the Sierra Club. Her deep concern for clean air, water, and healthy food drew her to the Danforth Center’s mission.
A Legacy of Belonging
For Norma Deen, giving is about connection. “Even when I was giving just $100 a year, people at the Danforth Center knew my name. That made me feel like I belonged.”
Norma joined the Friends of Plant Science in 2012 and the Danforth Society in 2024. She's also made a planned gift through the WHD Legacy Society. “If you make a planned gift, you’re more a part of things,” she says. “Since I became a more involved donor, I’ve attended intimate events, like lunch with the CEO.” She also promotes the Danforth Center in other ways, sharing her Leaflet newsletters with friends who aren’t familiar with the Center.
“I’m not the biggest donor, but I’ve been giving for years. I’m part of the original foundation and I really feel connected to the place.”
Even when I was giving just $100 a year, people at the Danforth Center knew my name. That made me feel like I belonged.
Norma Deen Juracsik
Member of the WHD Legacy Society
Creating a Legacy
During the Future Forward campaign, planned gifts can create a legacy of connection and caring for generations to come. Learn more about the benefits and convenience of planned giving here.
About
A version of this story originally appeared in the Leaflet, the free newsletter of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Sign up to receive more stories like this straight to your inbox.