TOCA Honors Jason Schmaderer for His Impact on Green Industry Communications

At the 36th TOCA Annual Meeting, the Turf and Ornamental Communicators Association inducted Swanson Russell's Jason Schmaderer, Executive Vice President/Group Account Director, into its Hall of Fame — the organization’s highest individual honor. 

The TOCA Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant, long-term contributions to green industry communications. Schmaderer, a former TOCA president, was honored for his decades of influence and advocacy across the turf and ornamental space. 

Throughout his career, Schmaderer has helped shape how the green industry communicates — not only through his work with leading brands but also through his investment in people. He’s known for mentoring others, his deep industry knowledge and his passion for TOCA’s mission. He understands the needs of landscape contractors, lawn care professionals and golf course superintendents, helping many Swanson Russell clients build stronger brands within the green industry. 

Schmaderer served as TOCA’s president in 2013 and 2014 and continues to champion the organization’s role in strengthening green industry communicators. He is also credited with starting the TOCA Trotters, a fun-run group that gathers each year during the annual meeting. 

His Hall of Fame induction was accompanied by a photo retrospective and video tributes from colleagues and industry peers — each sharing personal reflections on Schmaderer’s influence, character and leadership.  

Dave Hansen, former CEO of Swanson Russell and a fellow TOCA Hall of Fame inductee, noted the consistency of Schmaderer’s contributions over time. “For 25 years, Jason has brought a rare combination of strategic thinking, leadership and care to everything he does,” Hansen said. “His commitment to clients and to the green industry has shaped both Swanson Russell and the broader communications landscape.” 

Former TOCA executive director Den Gardner echoed that sentiment. “Jason is a great person, a great colleague and a great communicator,” Gardner said. “He’s always focused on value and whether our ideas stay true to the TOCA brand. That kind of thinking helped strengthen the organization, and Jason was always part of that.” 

Schmaderer was inducted alongside McGavock Edwards, managing partner at Eckel & Vaughan, during a ceremony that honored the individuals whose leadership, service and advocacy continue to move the green industry forward. As an organization founded in 1990 to unite editorial, marketing and communications professionals across the turf and ornamental space, TOCA’s mission is reflected in the careers it recognizes. Through programs like the Hall of Fame — as well as its annual meeting and professional development initiatives — TOCA celebrates those who not only elevate their work but also elevate the industry itself.