Evans Chigounis

I grew up in Clifton, New Jersey on a one-acre property filled with fruit trees, grapevines, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. That land shaped my entire life. Long before I knew the meaning of horticulture, I was living it every day—learning how things grow, how soil behaves, and how nature teaches patience. My first job was at a local garden centre in high school, and that experience set the foundation for a career spent working in nurseries, landscaping, gardening, and even the horticulture department at the Kansas City Zoo.

I’ve always been drawn to hands-on work and creative expression. I studied illustration and art at Bergen Community College and later spent 13 years in graphic arts as a Mac retoucher. I also worked in carpentry throughout my life. No matter the field, I’ve found that detail, care, and focus always matter.

Music is another major part of who I am. I’ve played drums and percussion since my teens, and today I lead drum circles, teach percussion and Native American flute, and volunteer as the facilitator of the Asbury Drum & Dance community.

Service has always guided me—whether coaching Special Olympics, helping with clean-ups, or playing at charity events. Everything I do comes back to connection: with nature, with creativity, and with each other.