News
23 Students Receive AFE Scholarships
August 21, 2026
$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.
Meet this year’s scholarship recipients:
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.
About the American Florists’ Exchange Scholarships:
The Original Los Angeles Flower Market was established in 1921, and the flower market is now part of the largest wholesale flower district in the U.S. Eligible recipients are juniors or seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, majoring in agriculture with an emphasis on a future in floriculture. This scholarship provides tuition assistance to students attending a college/university in California or student residents of California attending a college/university in other areas of the US.
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.”
About the Julio and Sarah Armellini Scholarships:
Julio “Toots” Armellini was the founder of Armellini Express Lines, the largest flower carrier service in the U.S. Armellini enlisted in the Navy as a “Seabee” and was stationed all around the globe as a mechanic, where he learned the skills he used to modernize refrigerated trucking.
Armellini Logistics was started in 1945. Today, Armellini Logistics encompasses many businesses: Armellini Express Lines, Inc., J.A. Flower Service, Armellini Freight Brokerage, Armellini Air Express, and Dash Mobile Storage. Established by Julio and Sarah before their passing, the Julio and Sarah Armellini Scholarship is intended for sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a career interest in the marketing or distribution of floral products.
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:
The August “Gus” and Mary Belle De Hertogh Scholarship Fund was established by Mary Belle De Hertogh in honor of her late husband, Gus, celebrating their shared belief in the power of education and their enduring commitment to supporting the next generation of floriculture professionals. It provides financial support to undergraduate or graduate students who have demonstrated an interest in floriculture and who intend to pursue a career in the field after graduation, with preference given to students who have shown a particular interest in flower bulbs.
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.”
About the Ball Horticultural Company Scholarship:
Ball Horticultural Company is a leading international breeder, producer, and wholesale distributor of floriculture products. Ball brings the beginnings of color, foliage, fruit, and form to professional growers around the world for the retail and landscape markets. The Ball Horticultural Company Scholarship is intended for junior or senior students pursuing a career in commercial floriculture.
About the BioWorks IPM/Sustainable Practices Scholarship:
The BioWorks IPM/Sustainable Practices Scholarship is intended for sophomore, junior, or senior students pursuing a career in floriculture. Students are selected on the basis of sound academic performance and a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. While not mandatory, it is strongly desired that the student be interested in furthering the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or sustainable practices, and preference is given in this area.
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!”
About the Harold Bettinger Scholarship:
Harold Bettinger was a partner at Bettinger Farms in Swanton, Ohio. In the mid-’50s, he was one of the first progressive growers to convert his bedding plant production from wooden to plastic flats. Bettinger Farms now grows greenhouse and field vegetables. The Bettinger Scholarship is intended for horticulture students, sophomore through graduate levels, who have a major or minor in business and/or marketing with the intent to apply their education to a horticulture-related career business.
About the Long Island Flower Growers Association (LIFGA) Scholarship:
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
James Bridenbaugh Memorial Scholarship – $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.”
About the James Bridenbaugh Memorial Scholarship:
Jim Bridenbaugh was a specialist in fresh flowers and plants, designing and commentating at design shows and seminars. His floral industry knowledge, comedic storytelling, and audience rapport made him a favorite. Jim served as OFA president from 1989 to 1991. The Bridenbaugh scholarship is for sophomore, junior, or senior students who are pursuing a career in floral design and marketing of fresh flowers and plants.
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, California Polytechnic State University, Agricultural Business
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.
About the Garcia Family Scholarship:
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.”
About the John Carew Memorial Scholarship:
John Carew, former head of the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University, dedicated his career to encouraging and guiding young horticulturists. He was instrumental in establishing BPI in 1969. The Carew scholarship is open to graduate students in horticulture with an interest in greenhouse crops.
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.”
About the Carlson-Johnson Scholarship for Nontraditional Students:
Barbara Carlson, along with her husband Will, was instrumental in the establishment of the Bedding Plant International (BPI) trade association, which served hundreds of growers. Fran Johnson enjoyed a long, productive career with the John Henry Co., a horticultural printing firm in Lansing, Mich. Fran also made many significant and practical contributions of time and talent through BPI to advance the greenhouse industry. The Carlson-Johnson Scholarship for Nontraditional Students is awarded to students re-entering school after a minimum three-year absence who have an interest in bedding and/or floral crops.
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.”
About the Earl Dedman Memorial Scholarship:
Earl Dedman owned and operated Mountainview Greenhouses in Woodinville, Wash., and was a former president of BPFI. In addition to his participation with BPFI and BPI, Earl was involved with the Montana State Flower Growers, the Puget Sound Flower Growers, and the Washington Floricultural Association. The Earl Dedman Scholarship is awarded to junior or senior students who maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and are interested in becoming greenhouse growers.
About the Suntory Flowers “Dream Big” Scholarship:
Suntory Flowers Scholarship is intended for junior or senior undergraduates attending a 2- or 4-year institution with a focus on a career in floriculture or ornamental horticulture breeding or production, with a passion for exploration in developing new and innovative floral products. Based in Japan, Suntory Flowers is a world-class breeding company dedicated to innovation and enriching lives by creating a world that’s alive with flowers.
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.”
About the Dewar Family Scholarship:
The Dewar Family Scholarship Fund is awarded to undergraduate juniors or seniors studying environmental horticulture with an emphasis and focus on a career in floriculture. The fund was established by the Dewar Family of Dewar Nurseries, which was established in 1963 by founder Alex Dewar with the vision of providing premier plants and exemplary customer service. The Dewar Family appreciates the value of a quality education and is excited to encourage young professionals to enter floriculture production and business with this scholarship.
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:
This scholarship was established in memory of the late Bob Gunther, owner of Gunther’s Greenhouses & Florist in Oceanside, New York. It is intended for students from Long Island and New York studying ornamental horticulture at a community college or four-year institution in New York. This includes floriculture, landscape maintenance, landscape design, turf, and any other courses of study related to ornamental horticulture. Robert Edward “Bob” Gunther was treasurer for LIFGA for many years and instrumental in the establishment of LIFGA’s first scholarship. Gunther received the Lifetime Achievement Award from LIFGA. He and his brother Fred took over the family business after his father passed away in 1969. Bob ran the business up until his passing in 2015 at the age of 85.
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:
The 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 Bettinger Farms 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.”
About the Jacob and Rita Van Namen Marketing Scholarship:
The Jacob and Rita Van Namen Marketing Scholarship was established in January 1997. Jacob Van Namen is a true entrepreneur who built a multimillion-dollar business in wholesale floriculture. This award is intended to develop knowledgeable, creative individuals who will improve the floriculture industry. The Van Namen Scholarship requires students to have a career interest in agribusiness marketing and distribution of floral products and be of sophomore, junior, or senior standing.
AFE awards scholarships annually, and applications are due by May 1 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 here.
