The Importance of Continued Education: Sharpe Family Grant Supports Retail Florists

Continued education is a vital part of any business, but it is especially vital in the vibrant and ever-changing world of flowers.  The Sharpe family knew how much of an impact pursuing education opportunities and attending industry events can have on a floral business. In 2019, Bob and Carol Sharpe established the Retail Florist’s Continued Education Grant to help businesses in the Maryland, Virginia and DC area pursue educational opportunities that help them stay up-to-date with the latest education, tools, tips, and trends to help their business grow.  “In an industry where businesses are handed down from generation to generation, continued education is vital for success,” said Bob. Bob and Carol wanted to help floral businesses succeed, so they worked…

Altering Petunia Development Rate to Improve Cutting Yield and Crop Production Efficiency

Researchers at Michigan State University, funded by AFE, are exploring how to breed new varieties and improve petunia crop to make production more efficient. This project is working to understand the genetic materials of different petunia varieties, and evaluate their development and performance to maximize efficiency. Read more below, and explore our other currently funded projects here. The rate at which plants produce new nodes is a fundamental trait with numerous implications for ornamental crop production. The benefits of understanding the genetic regulation of development rate and being able to manipulate development rate in the breeding of new cultivars include: 1) Reduction in crop production time:  Crop production time for annual bedding plants is a function of the rate of development,…

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Joins with the American Floral Endowment 

Amplifying Floriculture Research Advancements The American Floral Endowment (AFE) and the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation are pleased to announce a new partnership and joining of forces promoting a shared vision of cultivating and funding innovation, advancements, and growth through floriculture research. Through this partnership, the American Floral Endowment will provide a new home for the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation, transitioning the Foundation to a new fund within AFE. The new Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund will continue the Foundation's current mission of providing a source of funding for research and education in floriculture while maintaining its robust history. The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund complements AFE's research efforts and amplifies floriculture growth through combining efforts, ultimately resulting in more significant achievements and…

Unveiling AFE’s New Website: Tailored for You

We are excited to unveil our newly redesigned website, featuring seamless navigation, enhanced program accessibility, and a modern, vibrant aesthetic! The new website reflects our unwavering commitment to providing easy-to-use, accessible resources and programs supporting research, internships, scholarships, and education for the floral industry. As the Endowment’s initiatives have grown over time, adapting to the industry's ever-changing needs, the website housing all of the resources has been reshaped as well. Industry members can find resources and programs specific to their business segment, including tailored-specific news, research findings, opportunities, and more. With a focus on accessibility, the redesigned platform ensures that visitors can easily access valuable resources and navigate the website effortlessly."We are thrilled to introduce the new website, which embodies our dedication to serving all segments of…

Discount Available: 2024 Greenhouse Training Online

Each course is completely online and includes pre-recorded videos, an interactive discussion board, and quizzes. The course material is available any time of the day, and new modules are activated each week during the course for the four weeks of each course, for a total of 8 learning modules. Experienced university instructors are available to help, and graduates receive a personalized certificate of completion. Courses are designed for individuals already working in the horticulture industry. Exclusively for AFE supporters, we are pleased to provide a 20% discount. Just use code: AFE2024 when you register. The University of Florida Greenhouse Training Online 2024 program starts June 3rd! Online course schedule for 2024: Greenhouse 101 teaches the underlying horticultural science of plant growth to…

Spring Hiring Campaign Kicks Off to Tackle Labor Challenges

The AFE Career Center provides valuable online career tools, resources, and industry guides tailored to both individuals seeking opportunities in the floral industry and employers looking to expand their staff. The Center provides the most up-to-date job listings, real-time job alerts, networking opportunities, and free tools to help both candidates and employers during the job search. Since its launch in 2020 by AFE, engagement has more than doubled in both job views and active applications.  Calling All Job-Seekers! Explore an array of resources including resume tips, reviews, and a centralized job openings hub at afecareercenter.com. Be entered to win 1 of 3 $50 Amazon gift cards by uploading your resume by April 23rd! Uploading your resume means employers can reach out to you directly with inquiries…

Dr. Stephanie Burnett Appointed to AFE’s Vic & Margaret Ball Internship Committee

Dr. Stephanie Burnett, Associate Professor at the University of Maine, has been appointed as the newest member of AFE’s Vic & Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship Committee. In her position at the University of Maine’s School of Food and Agriculture, she teaches Greenhouse Management, Herbaceous Landscape Plants, and Introduction to Horticulture. Her research focuses on greenhouse and field flower production as well as automated irrigation in greenhouses. She has an MS degree in horticulture from Auburn University and a Ph.D. in horticulture from the University of Georgia. As a member of the Vic & Margaret Ball Committee, Burnett will work together with industry, faculty, AFE Staff, and the Ball Family representative to review student applications for the Vic & Margaret Ball Intern…

AFE’s Adventure at North Carolina State University: Research and Scholarships in Action

Picture this: a group of industry leaders from AFE’s Board of Trustees and Staff embarking on a journey to North Carolina State University (NCSU) in Raleigh, NC, for our board and committee meetings, along with a university tour. The trip provided us with the opportunity to spend some time with faculty and students who directly benefit from the Endowment’s programs. Twice a year, the Endowment Board meets in person to engage in strategic discussions and review past, present, and upcoming initiatives, charting the course for the future. The meetings provide for direct industry engagement and feedback on AFE’s programs. This February, however, held an extra special treat—a tour of NCSU and the chance to witness firsthand the impact of AFE’s…

Surpassing $20 Million in Funding in Support of Floriculture

We are proud to announce a significant milestone in our journey to support the future of floriculture: Providing over $20 million in cumulative funding for industry research and education. For over 63 years, AFE has given unwavering dedication and support to floriculture. Since AFE’s establishment in 1961, we have been at the forefront of funding innovative research, providing educational grants for industry events and programs, and offering internships and scholarships to cultivate the next generation of professionals in the floral sector. These endeavors have not only enriched the industry but also propelled its growth and advancement. Debi Chedester, Executive Director of AFE, expressed gratitude for this achievement, stating, “We are proud to have reached this significant milestone. It is truly…

Building On a Legacy

As I sit here typing this article, I’m struggling to find the words to convey just how honored and excited I am to be leading the American Floral Endowment’s research program. I’m humbled to follow in the footsteps of the remarkable Dr. Terril Nell, and I know I have some big shoes to fill, quite literally! Since August 2022, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Terril, whose dedication and passion have left an enduring mark on me, AFE, and the floral industry as a whole. I know that Terril has personally touched many of you reading this article. His mentorship and guidance have been invaluable, and I am profoundly grateful for the foundation he has laid. I am…

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