$87,400 Awarded to 23 Students Through Scholarships

From Candice Musgrove, Program Manager

Every year, one of my favorite jobs as Program Manager is reading through our scholarship applications and getting to know the students who are passionate about building a career in floriculture. Their stories, experiences, and goals are inspiring, and they give me so much hope for the future of our industry.

This year, I am excited to congratulate AFE’s 2026 scholarship recipients. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and industry partners, AFE is awarding a record $87,400 in scholarships through 27 scholarship awards. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of college, but they also remind our students that the floral industry believes in them and is invested in their future.

To our scholarship recipients, congratulations! You have worked incredibly hard to get to this point, and we are proud to support you as you continue your education and begin your careers. I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you.

To our donors, thank you for making these opportunities possible. Your generosity is changing lives and helping to develop the next generation of leaders who will strengthen and grow our industry for years to come.

Conozca a los becarios de este año:

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Charlie Litner, California Polytechnic State University, Plant Sciences

American Florists’ Exchange Scholarship – $3,600
CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship – $5,000

Charlie Litner of Woodland Hills, California, is a junior at California Polytechnic State University majoring in Plant Sciences. He anticipates graduating in May 2028. His future career goal is to work in specialty cut flower production, especially with unusual ornamental crops that make people stop and ask, “What is that?” He hopes to help build his family’s farm into a creative, sustainable, and respected business while becoming a valuable contributor to the floral industry as a grower, designer, and problem-solver.

“This scholarship gives me the confidence to continue chasing opportunities that don’t have a well-defined path. From studying Australian native cut flowers in the field to building our family’s specialty cut flower farm, it allows me to learn from the people and places shaping the future I hope to build,” said Litner.

Acerca de las Becas del American Florists’ Exchange:

El Original Los Angeles Flower Market se estableció en 1921 y el mercado de flores ahora forma parte del distrito mayorista de flores más grande de EE. UU. Los beneficiarios elegibles son estudiantes de antepenúltimo o último año con un promedio de calificaciones de 3.0 o superior, que se especializan en agricultura con énfasis en un futuro en la floricultura. Esta beca proporciona asistencia para la matrícula a estudiantes que asisten a una universidad en California o estudiantes residentes de California que asisten a una universidad en otras áreas de EE. UU.

About the CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship:

The CalFlowers Scholarship is for undergraduate students attending an accredited California college/university (first priority) or an undergraduate California resident attending an accredited college/university elsewhere in the U.S. Students do not need to be majoring in an agricultural program, but must demonstrate a commitment to seeking employment in the floriculture industry after graduation. A work history or meaningful internship experience in floriculture is necessary if not obtaining an agricultural degree. GPA of 3.0 or higher. Founded in 1941, the California Association of Flower Growers & Shippers fosters the success of the California floral industry and is the leading floral trade association in CA, serving growers and the entire supply chain in the state and in 47 states across the U.S.

Elizabeth Corrie, University of Missouri, Plant Science – Horticultural Science and Design

Julio and Sarah Armellini Scholarship – $4,800

Elizabeth Corrie of Rushville, Illinois, is a junior at the University of Missouri, where she is majoring in Plant Science – Horticultural Science and Design. She expects to graduate in May 2028. After graduating from the University of Missouri, she plans to return home to her family’s garden center, nursery, and landscaping business to help grow the business for years to come. Her goal is to build on what her family has created while also finding ways to expand and adapt the business to meet future needs.

“I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and the opportunities it provides as I pursue my degree in Plant Science at the University of Missouri. This support allows me to continue growing my knowledge and skills so I can one day return to my family’s garden center and help carry on what my family has built.”

Acerca de las Becas Julio y Sarah Armellini:

Julio “Toots” Armellini fue el fundador de Armellini Express Lines, la mayor empresa de transporte de flores de EE. UU. Armellini se alistó en la Armada como “Seabee” y estuvo destinado en todo el mundo como mecánico, donde aprendió las habilidades que utilizó para modernizar el transporte por camión refrigerado.

Armellini Logistics se fundó en 1945. Hoy en día, Armellini Logistics abarca muchos negocios: Armellini Express Lines, Inc., J.A. Flower Service, Armellini Freight Brokerage, Armellini Air Express y Dash Mobile Storage. Establecida por Julio y Sarah antes de su fallecimiento, la Beca Julio y Sarah Armellini Está dirigido a estudiantes de segundo, tercer o cuarto curso que tengan interés profesional en el marketing o la distribución de productos florales.

Amelia Brady, North Carolina State University, Horticulture Science

August “Gus” & Mary Belle De Hertogh Scholarship – $2,000

Amelia Brady of Charlotte, North Carolina, is a senior at North Carolina State University, where she is majoring in Horticulture Science. She expects to graduate in December 2026. Her career goal is to work in product development for an ornamental plant or floriculture company, contributing to the process of identifying, trialing, and bringing new varieties to market that resonate with both the trade and end consumers.

“This scholarship is more than financial support; it is confirmation that my future in floriculture is real, valued, and worth every hour I have put into it.”

About the August “Gus” and Mary Belle De Hertogh Scholarships:

El Fondo de Becas August “Gus” y Mary Belle De Hertogh fue establecido por Mary Belle De Hertogh en honor a su difunto esposo, Gus, celebrando su creencia compartida en el poder de la educación y su compromiso duradero de apoyar a la próxima generación de profesionales de la floricultura. Proporciona apoyo financiero a estudiantes de grado o posgrado que hayan demostrado interés en la floricultura y que tengan la intención de seguir una carrera en el campo después de graduarse, dándose preferencia a los estudiantes que hayan mostrado un interés particular en los bulbos de flores.

Edilzon Ramirez, University of Florida, Plant Science

Ball Horticultural Company Scholarship – $1,300 
BioWorks IPM/Sustainable Practices Scholarship $2,000

Edilzon Ramirez of Homestead, Florida, is a junior at the University of Florida studying Plant Science. He expects to graduate in May 2028. Through his internships and experiences in commercial horticulture, he has developed a strong interest in growing plants on a larger scale, from crop production and plant trials to pest management. His goal is to become a head grower or production manager and eventually lead a large-scale horticultural operation, where he can continue helping improve how crops are grown, managed, and produced in ways that are both efficient and sustainable. .

“I am honored to receive these scholarships and grateful for the support of the horticulture community. This support will help me continue gaining hands-on experience, meeting people throughout the industry, and building the skills I need for my future career. I am excited to keep learning, take on new challenges, and eventually use what I’ve learned to help move the horticulture industry forward.”

Acerca de la beca de Ball Horticultural Company:

Ball Horticultural Company es una empresa líder a nivel internacional en el ámbito del cultivo, la producción y la distribución al por mayor de productos de floricultura. Ball ofrece a los cultivadores profesionales de todo el mundo los primeros brotes de color, follaje, frutos y formas para los mercados minorista y paisajístico. La beca de Ball Horticultural Company está destinada a estudiantes de tercer o cuarto curso que deseen desarrollar su carrera profesional en el ámbito de la floricultura comercial.

Acerca de la beca BioWorks para la gestión integrada de plagas (IPM) y las prácticas sostenibles:

El BioWorks La beca «IPM/Prácticas Sostenibles» está destinada a estudiantes de segundo, tercer o cuarto curso que deseen desarrollar su carrera profesional en el ámbito de la floricultura. Los estudiantes son seleccionados en función de un buen rendimiento académico y una nota media de 3,0 o superior. Aunque no es obligatorio, se valora muy positivamente que el estudiante esté interesado en promover el uso de la gestión integrada de plagas (IPM) o de prácticas sostenibles, y se da preferencia a los candidatos que cumplan este requisito.

Kelly Parsley, Farmingdale State University College, Horticultural Management

Harold Bettinger Scholarship – $2,600
Long Island Flower Growers Association (LIFGA) Scholarship – $1,800

Kelly Parsley of Hauppauge, New York, is a senior at Farmingdale State University. She expects to graduate in May 2029. Her career goal is to harmonize the natural world with the built environment by creating sustainable spaces and landscapes that are both ecologically responsible and aesthetically pleasing. After gaining experience in both design and fieldwork, she hopes to manage or eventually establish a firm that takes on a diverse range of projects.

“Thank you kindly for selecting me and supporting my vision to create harmony between built systems and the natural world. Receiving this scholarship is an investment in both my future and the future of regenerative design, as it will help me complete my degrees and fulfill my mission to create spaces and design landscapes that are as ecologically responsible as they are beautiful!”

Acerca de la beca Harold Bettinger:

Harold Bettinger fue socio de Granjas Bettinger en Swanton, Ohio. A mediados de los años 50, fue uno de los primeros agricultores innovadores en cambiar la producción de plantas de vivero, pasando de las bandejas de madera a las de plástico. En la actualidad, Bettinger Farms cultiva hortalizas tanto en invernadero como al aire libre. La Beca Bettinger está destinada a estudiantes de horticultura, desde segundo curso hasta posgrado, que tengan una especialización o una asignatura secundaria en empresariales y/o marketing con la intención de aplicar su formación a una carrera profesional relacionada con la horticultura.

Sobre la beca de la Asociación de Productores de Flores de Long Island (LIFGA):

The LIFGA scholarship was established in 2010. LIFGA members represent growers and retailers promoting research, education, and sales of ornamentals in the local market. The LIFGA scholarship is intended for students in the Long Island/New York area studying ornamental horticulture at a community college or a four-year institution.

Kourtney Hopcus, Texas A&M University, Horticulture

Beca en memoria de James Bridenbaugh – $500

Kourtney Hopcus of College Station, Texas, is a senior at Texas A&M University, where she is majoring in Horticulture. She anticipates graduating in May 2027. Kourtney hopes to expand her business, refine her skills, and eventually teach others about sustainable floral practices while creating designs that leave a lasting impact.

 “Receiving the James Bridenbaugh Memorial Scholarship is an honor and an investment in my future within the floral industry. This scholarship helps ease the financial burden of my education while allowing me to continue developing the skills, creativity, and knowledge needed to pursue a successful career in floral design and carry forward Mr. Bridenbaugh’s passion for the industry.”

Acerca de la Beca Conmemorativa James Bridenbaugh:

Jim Bridenbaugh era especialista en flores y plantas frescas, y se dedicaba al diseño y a la presentación de ponencias en ferias y seminarios de diseño. Sus conocimientos sobre el sector floral, su estilo narrativo humorístico y la buena conexión que establecía con el público lo convirtieron en uno de los favoritos. Jim ocupó el cargo de presidente de la OFA entre 1989 y 1991. La beca Bridenbaugh está destinada a estudiantes de segundo, tercer o cuarto curso que deseen dedicarse profesionalmente al diseño floral y a la comercialización de flores y plantas frescas.

Alexander Monahan, Brookdale Community College,
Plant Sciences

Terry and Ron Ferriss Horticulture Scholarship – $2,800

Alexander Monahan of Brick, New Jersey, is a junior at Brookdale Community College, where he is majoring in Plant Sciences, Horticulture, and Agriculture. He anticipates graduating in May 2027. Alexander plans to connect with local communities to build lasting relationships. One of his career goals is to continue leading classes like these, possibly on a farm of his own, where he can inspire students to care for the environment and create an impact much bigger than himself someday.

“It was just Mom and me before she passed away, so the uncertainty of being on my own now can be scary at times. This scholarship helps give me more certainty and makes me feel more secure, and I can’t thank you enough for that.”

About the Terry and Ron Ferriss Horticulture Scholarship:

The Terry and Ron Ferriss Horticulture Scholarship is awarded annually to an undergraduate student entering their junior or senior year who is majoring in horticulture or plant sciences with a career interest

in herbaceous ornamental plants and the floriculture industry. The scholarship honors and recognizes Dr. Terry Ferriss, who retired in 2015 from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) after 36 years of teaching. She was the first tenured female faculty member in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at UWRF, the first woman to serve as the Plant and Earth Sciences Department chair, and the first woman to serve as an associate dean for the college.

Paul Crocker, Universidad Politécnica Estatal de California, Negocios Agrícolas

CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship – $5,000
Garcia Family Scholarship – $4,900

Paul Crocker of Gilroy, California, is a junior at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, where he is majoring in Agricultural Business and minoring in Fruit Science. He anticipates graduating in June 2027. Paul plans to enter the industry in sales and marketing or product development. Ultimately, he would like to own and operate a retail nursery with floral and other ornamental offerings.

“Thanks to the generosity of AFE scholarship donors, I can complete the remainder of my university education with confidence while continuing the campus involvement that enriches my learning and personal growth. Your support has better prepared me to enter the horticulture industry as a knowledgeable and enthusiastic emerging professional. Thank you!”

About the CalFlowers Frank Biddle Memorial Scholarship:

The CalFlowers Scholarship is for undergraduate students attending an accredited California college/university (first priority) or an undergraduate California resident attending an accredited college/university elsewhere in the U.S. Students do not need to be majoring in an agricultural program but must demonstrate a commitment to seeking employment in the floriculture industry after graduation. A work history or meaningful internship experience in floriculture is necessary if not obtaining an agricultural degree. GPA of 3.0 or higher. Founded in 1941, the California Association of Flower Growers & Shippers fosters the success of the California floral industry and is the leading floral trade association in CA, serving growers and the entire supply chain in the state and in 47 states across the U.S.

Acerca de la Beca de la Familia García:

The Garcia Family Scholarship Fund is intended for students attending a two-year college or juniors or seniors attending a four-year institution with a career focus on the marketing or distribution of floral products, including retail, wholesale, manufacturing, and/or floral business ownership/operations. The Garcia Family has proudly served the floral industry since 1965. Owned by the Garcia family, Garcia Group, Inc. operates six different divisions: Floral-Pak® Company; Plus One Imports™; Garcia Group Glass—Floraglas® and G3® brand products; Vase D’Lite® and Premium Wood Picks. All are represented exclusively by the Pete Garcia Company™ THE BEST LINES IN THE WORLD®.

Supti Saha Mou, Michigan State University, Environmental Horticulture

John Carew Memorial Scholarship – $2,500

Supti Saha Mou of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a graduate student in the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University, where she is studying Horticulture. She plans to graduate from her Ph.D. program in December 2027. Afterward, she plans to pursue a faculty career at a land-grant university, where she can continue this work, generating knowledge and ensuring that floriculture producers always have access to the science-based answers they deserve.

“I am truly honored to receive the John Carew Memorial Scholarship. This recognition will inspire me to move forward in my research with more focus, and the financial support will help me pursue opportunities that expand my career possibilities in horticulture. I am deeply grateful to my donors and AFE for believing in my work.”

Sobre la Beca Conmemorativa John Carew:

John Carew, exjefe del Departamento de Horticultura de la Universidad Estatal de Míchigan, dedicó su carrera a alentar y guiar a jóvenes horticultores. Desempeñó un papel fundamental en la creación de BPI en 1969. La beca Carew está abierta a estudiantes de posgrado en horticultura con interés en cultivos de invernadero.

Cherise Hunt, Cal Poly Pomona, Plant Science

Carlson-Johnson Scholarship for Nontraditional Students – $1,500

Cherise Hunt of Montclair, California, is a junior at Cal Poly Pomona. She plans to complete her four-year degree program in Plant Science in May 2029. Her goal is to become a plant pathologist. She wants to assess crops, landscapes, and trees for pests, diseases, and other problems. She also wants to conduct research on ways to control the invasive pest problems that plague nurseries, crops, landscapes, urban forests, and forests.

“I am so thankful for this scholarship. I couldn’t continue on my journey without the generosity and support from donors. With some of the financial burden lifted off my shoulders, I can focus on working hard as I reach for and achieve my dreams.”

Acerca de la Beca Carlson-Johnson para Estudiantes No Tradicionales:

Bárbara Carlson, junto con su esposo Will, fue fundamental en el establecimiento de la asociación comercial Bedding Plant International (BPI), que prestó servicio a cientos de horticultores. Fran Johnson disfrutó de una larga y productiva carrera en la empresa John Henry Co., una firma de impresión hortícola en Lansing, Míchigan. Fran también hizo muchas contribuciones significativas y prácticas de tiempo y talento a través de BPI para hacer avanzar la industria de los invernaderos. La beca Carlson-Johnson para estudiantes no tradicionales se otorga a estudiantes que regresan a la escuela después de una ausencia mínima de tres años y que tienen interés en plantas de cama y/o cultivos florales.

Christina Mercado – University of Florida, Plant Science

Earl Dedman Memorial Scholarship – $2,500
Suntory Flowers “Dream Big” Scholarship – $2,200

Christina Mercado of Gainesville, Florida, is a senior at the University of Florida. She plans to graduate in May 2027. After graduating, she hopes to begin as an assistant grower at a greenhouse production facility, learning different approaches to crop management, environmental control systems, sustainability, business, and the various operational styles that exist within the horticultural industry.

“I am so grateful that I was selected as a recipient of one of AFE’s scholarships. The generosity of donors has made a significant positive difference in my educational journey.”

Acerca de la Beca Memorial Earl Dedman:

Earl Dedman fue propietario y operador de Mountainview Greenhouses en Woodinville, Washington, y fue expresidente de BPFI. Además de su participación en BPFI y BPI, Earl estuvo involucrado con los Productores de Flores del Estado de Montana, los Productores de Flores de Puget Sound y la Asociación Florícola de Washington. La Beca Earl Dedman se otorga a estudiantes de tercer o cuarto año que mantienen un promedio de calificaciones mínimo de 3.0 y están interesados en convertirse en productores de invernadero.

Sobre la beca “Dream Big” de Suntory Flowers:

La beca Suntory Flowers está destinada a estudiantes universitarios de tercer o cuarto año que asisten a una institución de 2 o 4 años, con un enfoque en una carrera en floricultura o mejoramiento o producción de horticultura ornamental, con pasión por la exploración en el desarrollo de productos florales nuevos e innovadores. Con sede en Japón, Suntory Flowers es una empresa de mejora genética de categoría mundial dedicada a la innovación y a enriquecer vidas creando un mundo lleno de flores.

Jamie Paige – University of New Hampshire, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems

Dewar Family Scholarship – $5,800

Jamie Page of Woodbury, Connecticut, is a senior at the University of New Hampshire. She is majoring in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems and plans to graduate this December. Upon graduation, Jamie plans to take action grounded in scientific thinking that will enable her to make a positive impact on growers and promote sustainable thinking. Jamie has a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and floriculture and plans to pursue both simultaneously as an Extension Specialist and flower farmer.

“I am so grateful that I was selected as a recipient of one of AFE’s scholarships. The generosity of donors has made a significant difference in my educational journey.”

Sobre la Beca de la Familia Dewar:

El Fondo de Becas de la Familia Dewar se otorga a estudiantes universitarios de tercer o cuarto año que estudian horticultura ambiental con énfasis y enfoque en una carrera en floricultura. El fondo fue establecido por la Familia Dewar de Viveros Dewar, que fue establecida en 1963 por el fundador Alex Dewar con la visión de proporcionar plantas de primera calidad y un servicio al cliente ejemplar. La familia Dewar valora la importancia de una educación de calidad y se complace en alentar a los jóvenes profesionales a ingresar a la producción y los negocios de la floricultura con esta beca.

Maria Rumfola, Cornell University, Landscape Architecture

Long Island Flower Growers Association – Bob Gunther Scholarship – $1,500

Maria Rumfola of East Concord, New York, is a senior at Cornell University, majoring in Landscape. Her anticipated graduation date is December 2026. After graduation, she would like to begin her career and design work back in Buffalo, New York, to return to and stay closely connected with her local community. Western New York has her heart and will forever be considered her home, so even if she ends up somewhere else down the line, she will always know and refer to the community that shaped her from the beginning and gave her the inspiration to spark worthwhile change in towns and cities like the one where she grew up.

“With this scholarship, I will be using the funds directly toward college expenses for my last semester at Cornell, which lessens the financial burden of paying for school before entering the workforce in a few months. This award will help me make my way toward my future career in landscape architecture and my goal of pursuing licensure after graduation.”

About the Long Island Flower Growers Association – Bob Gunther Scholarship:

Esta beca se estableció en memoria del difunto Bob Gunther, propietario de Gunther’s Greenhouses & Florist en Oceanside, Nueva York. Está destinada a estudiantes de Long Island y Nueva York que estudian horticultura ornamental en un colegio comunitario o institución de cuatro años en Nueva York. Esto incluye floricultura, mantenimiento de paisajes, diseño de paisajes, césped y cualquier otro curso de estudio relacionado con la horticultura ornamental. Robert Edward “Bob” Gunther fue tesorero de la LIFGA durante muchos años y jugó un papel fundamental en el establecimiento de la primera beca de la LIFGA. Gunther recibió el premio a la trayectoria (Lifetime Achievement Award) de la LIFGA. Él y su hermano Fred se hicieron cargo del negocio familiar después del fallecimiento de su padre en 1969. Bob administró el negocio hasta su fallecimiento en 2015 a la edad de 85 años.

Greta Gallina, University of Georgia, Horticulture

Richard T. Meister Scholarship – $5,100

Greta Gallina of Athens, Georgia, is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Georgia. She plans to graduate in May 2027. Her plan is to work as an ornamental plant breeder at a major research university. Her goal is to lead a breeding program that develops new ornamental cultivars that are aesthetically unique and commercially successful by combining traditional and modern breeding methods.

“I am so incredibly grateful to have received this scholarship. It will be extremely useful in allowing me to finish my Ph.D. with less financial stress so that I can pursue a career as a professor in plant breeding.”

About the Richard T. Meister Scholarship:

Dick Meister built a family business in publishing for specialized growers in commercial horticulture. He is a strong supporter of the land-grant college system and, through the years, worked closely with many horticultural and floricultural leaders. This scholarship is dedicated to the outstanding accomplishments of those in university extension and especially to Will Carlson in floriculture. The Meister scholarship is open to graduate students in floriculture intending to pursue their career in the land-grant university system with an interest in research, extension, or teaching.

Aharon Heinrich, University of Florida, Horticulture

National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association (NGMA) Scholarship – $2,500

Aharon Heinrich of Miami, Florida, is a junior at the University of Florida, where he is majoring in Horticulture. After graduating from the University of Florida, he plans to pursue a career in horticulture, specializing in hydroponics, vertical farming, and greenhouse crop production. His goal is to create efficient and sustainable ways to grow exotic fruits and vegetables while advancing agricultural technology.

“Receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor that helps ease some of the financial pressure as I work toward my degree at the University of Florida. It allows me to focus more fully on my classes and hands-on learning, also bringing me closer to achieving my goal of becoming an expert in hydroponic systems while contributing to the future of horticulture.”

About the National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association (NGMA) Scholarship:

El National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association (NGMA) is a professional trade organization for the manufacturers and suppliers of greenhouses and greenhouse components built to codes designed for a grower’s needs. The NGMA scholarship targets students majoring in horticulture and bioengineering or the equivalent and are at least a junior at an accredited four-year college maintaining a 3.0 GPA.

Alexandria Grosz – Mt. San Antonio College, Horticulture

Mike and Flo Novovesky Scholarship – $2,050
Vocational (Bettinger, Holden & Perry) Scholarship – $1,900

Alexandria Grosz of Temple City, California, is a sophomore at Mt. San Antonio College. She is majoring in Integrated Pest Management. Her anticipated graduation date is May 2027. Her ultimate career goal is to serve as an integrated pest management (IPM) advisor or manager for a cut flower farm or nursery. With a long-standing passion for floriculture, she aims to apply her expertise to protect and support plants during their most vulnerable stages, ensuring healthy growth and high-quality blooms.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this scholarship and grateful for the opportunity to share my story and passions. Knowing that someone believes in me reassures me that I’m heading in the right direction.”

About the Vocational (Bettinger, Holden & Perry) Scholarship:

The Vocational (Bettinger, Holden & Perry) scholarship requires students to be in a one- or two-year program with the intent to become a grower or greenhouse manager. The vocational scholarship awards a scholarship in honor of: LEONARD BETTINGER, a successful

greenhouse grower in the Granjas Bettinger family business in Toledo, Ohio, and president of the BPI trade association (1974-76); JOHN HOLDEN, who had a long career at Ball Seed Co. and was active in the BPI trade association; JIM PERRY, a respected wholesale nurseryman, who grew Perry’s Plants of La Puente, Calif., into one of the largest bedding plant operations in the

U.S and president of BPI (1972-1974).

About the Mike and Flo Novovesky Scholarship:

Mike and Flo Novovesky have enjoyed more than 30 years of active participation in the floriculture industry. The Novoveskys know first-hand the hardships a young couple must overcome when balancing a career and a family. Their scholarship fund aims to help young married students working to put themselves through college and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Depending on the availability of married applicants, the scholarship may also go to an undergraduate working his or her way through school with financial need and family obligations. The keys are a strong interest in horticulture and financial need.

Julie Hamann  – College of DuPage, Horticulture

Mike and Flo Novovesky Scholarship – $2,050

Julie Hamann of Rolling Meadows, Illinois, is a sophomore at the College of DuPage. She is majoring in Floral Shop Management and Horticulture, with an anticipated graduation date of May 2027. She envisions herself as a floral designer. She is currently going back to school at the age of 54 after feeling stuck in jobs that were not fulfilling or rewarding to her. Her therapist suggested that she enroll in some classes to pursue life-enrichment opportunities, so she decided to choose Horticulture as her major.

“I would like to state that receiving this scholarship from Mike and Flo Novasky means the world to me. It will help to ensure that I complete my floral shop management certificate goal. I am truly humbled and grateful for being chosen as your scholarship recipient. It is greatly needed, appreciated, and will be put to proper use.”

About the Mike and Flo Novovesky Scholarship:

Mike and Flo Novovesky have enjoyed more than 30 years of active participation in the floriculture industry. The Novoveskys know first-hand the hardships a young couple must overcome when balancing a career and a family. Their scholarship fund aims to help young married students working to put themselves through college and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Depending on the availability of married applicants, the scholarship may also go to an undergraduate working his or her way through school with financial need and family obligations. The keys are a strong interest in horticulture and financial need.

Trell Amoss, Oklahoma State University, Agricultural Economics

James K. Rathmell, Jr. Memorial Scholarship for Horticultural Work/Study Abroad – $4,800

Trell Amoss of Albia, Iowa, is a senior at Oklahoma State University pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science and Natural Resources, with an anticipated graduation date of May 2027. Trell plans to build a career that supports the marketing and distribution of floral products by combining his background in floriculture, agricultural business, and communications. His goal is to help growers, wholesalers, retailers, and floral businesses better connect high-quality ornamental crops with consumers

“This scholarship means the world to me. It lifts a huge weight off my shoulders and allows me to chase my goals with everything I’ve got. It’s not just support; it’s a reminder that people believe in my future and want to see me and my fellow students succeed.”

About the James K. Rathmell, Jr. Memorial Scholarship for Horticultural Work/Study Abroad:

Jim Rathmell was a horticulture extension specialist at Penn State University who promoted communication and cooperation with horticulturists in other countries. A widely published author, he worked with commercial growers to implement many outstanding educational programs. The Rathmell scholarship is awarded to junior or senior-level undergraduates or graduate students who have a specific plan for horticulture work/study outside of the U.S.

Maria Alejandra Rodriguez, University of Florida, Horticultural Science

Ruby N. & Roland A. Whealy Memorial Scholarship – $2,500

Maria Rodriguez is a student at the University of Florida, where she is studying Horticulture. She plans to graduate with her master’s degree in December 2027. Her career goal is to work at the intersection of ornamental plant production and environmental adaptation, focusing on how floriculture systems can remain stable and efficient as climate conditions change.

“Receiving the Ruby N. and Roland A. Whealy Memorial Scholarship is more than financial support; it is a reminder that others believe in my dreams and my potential. This opportunity encourages me to keep learning, growing, and working toward a future where I can give back to the horticulture community that has given me so much.”

About the Ruby N. & Roland A. Whealy Memorial Scholarship:

Established by Dr. C. Anne Whealy, this scholarship honors her parents and their commitment to continued education and community service and ensures future generations are able to achieve their academic goals. It supports horticulture graduate students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a research focus on reducing the effects of changing climates on floriculture crops. This scholarship aims to support students doing work in this critical and impactful field.

Aidan Souder, The Ohio State University, Horticultural Science

Seed Companies Scholarship – $3,100

Aidan Souder of San Antonio, Texas, is currently in the first year of his master’s degree program in Horticulture and Crop Sciences at The Ohio State University. He graduated from Texas A&M University in May 2026. His primary career goal is to connect relevant scientific research in the floriculture industry directly with the growers and companies that need it. He hopes his research will be practical and aimed at reducing grower costs, improving product quality, and increasing production efficiency.

“Receiving the Seed Companies Scholarship means a lot to me, not only as a financial contribution to my studies but also as a vote of confidence in my abilities as a student and researcher. To have the support of so many great names in the horticulture industry is an honor, and I look forward to giving back to the floriculture and seed industries through my research!”

About the Seed Companies Scholarship:

The seed companies Ball, Pan-American, Goldsmith, and Syngenta are leaders in the seed production and breeding industry, providing new, improved varieties. These seed companies cooperatively sponsor this scholarship. The seed companies’ scholarship requires students to have a career goal within the seed industry and be junior- or senior-level undergraduates or graduate students.

Tylon Moon, Milwaukee Area Technical College, Horticulture Science

John Tomasovic, Sr. Scholarship – $2,300

Tylon Moon of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a junior at Milwaukee Area Technical College, where he is studying Horticulture. He has a special interest in hemp and hopes to bring mushroom production to the horticultural industry. He anticipates graduating in May 2027 and plans to open a hemp and mushroom business in Milwaukee. He also hopes to introduce mushrooms to communities that may not be familiar with their benefits and environmental impact. Tylon plans to partner with restoration organizations and educational institutions interested in using phyto- or mycoremediation practices.

“Many thanks to AFE for giving me the resources necessary to complete my degrees.”

About the John L. Tomasovic, Sr. Scholarship:

John Tomasovic, past president of BPFI, has grown his family business, Tomasovic Greenhouses and Nursery, Inc., in St. Louis, which includes a greenhouse from the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. They produce bedding plants, along with nursery stock, mums, poinsettias, and bulbs. The Tomasovic scholarship offers special consideration for sophomore, junior, or senior undergraduate students with financial need and a grade point average between 3.0 and 3.5.

Grady Vanderploeg, Michigan State University, Horticulture Science

Edward Tuinier Memorial Scholarship – $6,200

Grady Vanderploeg of Hudsonville, Michigan, is a junior at Michigan State University, where he is studying Horticulture. He has a special interest in annual flowers grown in greenhouse systems. After his anticipated graduation in May 2027, he plans to continue working in floriculture and greenhouse operations. He has worked in greenhouses since he was 14 and hopes to one day own and operate his own. His goal is to remain in the West Michigan area for these operations.

“I am extremely grateful to have received this scholarship. This scholarship really will help me with my education this year as a senior at Michigan State, while also setting me up better for my future in Floriculture and Greenhouses.”

About the Edward Tuinier Memorial Scholarship:

Ed Tuinier, owner of Post Gardens, loved the greenhouse business, building his firm to one of the top 50 U.S. companies and inspiring his children, all of whom work in one of the two Post Gardens locations. A graduate of Michigan State University, Ed was a major benefactor of the MSU horticulture program and demonstration gardens. The Tuinier Scholarship is awarded to sophomore, junior, or senior undergraduate students enrolled in the floriculture program at Michigan State University.

Kylee Terry, University of Central Missouri, Horticulture

Jacob and Rita Van Namen Marketing Scholarship –  $2,600

Kylee Terry of Warrensburg, Missouri, is a senior at the University of Central Missouri, where she is studying Horticultural Sciences. She expects to graduate in May 2027. She currently runs her own event floral design business but aspires to work in the global flower trade market.

“This scholarship builds onto the foundation of the dreams and passions I have in motion. I am so grateful to have been selected.”

Acerca de la beca de marketing «Jacob y Rita Van Namen»:

La Beca de Marketing Jacob y Rita Van Namen se creó en enero de 1997. Jacob Van Namen es un auténtico emprendedor que ha construido un negocio multimillonario en el sector de la floricultura al por mayor. El objetivo de esta beca es formar a personas con conocimientos y creatividad que contribuyan a mejorar el sector de la floricultura. La Beca Van Namen exige que los estudiantes tengan interés profesional en el marketing agroindustrial y la distribución de productos florales, y que cursen su segundo, tercer o cuarto año de carrera.

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AFE awards scholarships annually, and applications are due by 1 de mayo of each year. Scholarships are also available for M.S/Ph.D. students with that deadline February 1 each year. Learn more about our scholarships aquí.