American Floral Endowment Update - Spring 2003
American Floral Endowment Update - Spring 2003
Endowment Receives $100,000 Gift From Mabel Simmons
The American Floral Endowment has received a $100,000 gift from the estate of Mabel Simmons in memory of Roman & Florence
Claprood and Mary Ann Markwood Claprood. Ms. Simmons served on the Endowment Board of Trustees from 1973-1982. She was instrumental in providing the leadership that enabled the Endowment to reach its first milestone, $1 million in contributions. Her visionary leadership and passion for the industry sparked new and innovative programs that are still in existence. Ms. Simmons’ contribution to the floral industry focused on improved production and marketing efficiencies. She also is credited with being the first woman to operate a Gladiola farm in Florida, which at one time was the largest flower producer in the state. She not only developed Gladiolas that sprouted earlier, she also discovered ways to protect the sensitive plants from frost and disease. Today, thanks to Ms. Simmons’ vision and leadership, the Endowment continues to he the floral industry's leading not-for-profit organization supported by every segment and totally dedicated to funding research and educational development programs. Since 1961, more than $10 million has been invested, helping to build a stronger industry.
Endowment Establishes New Paul Ecke, Jr. Fellowship Fund
Honoring one of the floral industry’s greatest leaders, the American Floral Endowment recently established the Paul Ecke, Jr. Fellowship Fund. "This is an exciting new program that will assist master’s and doctoral students in realizing their goals of becoming leaders of the floriculture industry while furthering educational and research efforts at universities throughout the United States," said Jim Leider, Vice Chairman of the Projects and Grants Committee for the American Floral Endowment. "The program honors Paul Ecke. Jr., who has dedicated his life to the industry and was a lifelong champion of education and research efforts." Paul’s core belief was to support the efforts of land grant universities in attracting talented people in pursuit of advanced degrees in floriculture and related sciences. Leaders throughout the industry. as well as the academic and research community, have come together to help organize the fundraising efforts. The program will be administered through the American Floral Endowment with a goal of raising $1 million within the next few years. One-third of the funds has been pledged from individuals and business owners throughout the floral industry. Tax-deductible contributions arc being accepted by the American Floral Endowment.
