AFE Welcomes New Leadership and Board Appointments
July 30, 2026 | 2 min to read
Alexandria, VA – Congratulations, thank you, and welcome to the American Floral Endowment’s (AFE) incoming Chairman, new Board of Trustees members, and leaders effective September 1, 2026.
These accomplished industry leaders bring valuable expertise, fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to supporting the future of floriculture. Their involvement will help guide AFE’s strategic direction and enhance the impact of our funding and programs across all segments of the industry.
AFE Trustees generously volunteer their time and expertise, actively participating in all AFE meetings and events, covering their own travel expenses. We look forward to the leadership and insight these new Trustees will bring and extend our sincere thanks to the outgoing Trustees for their dedicated service.
Incoming Chairman and Special Appointment
Art Van Wingerden, Metrolina Greenhouses, Inc.
Art will begin his two-year term as Chairman in September 2026, succeeding current Chairman David Garcia of Pete Garcia Company/Garcia Group.
As COO of Metrolina Greenhouses in Huntersville, North Carolina, Art helps guide one of the largest and most innovative greenhouse operations in the country. Founded in 1972 and family-run, Metrolina grows and ships more than 70 million plants annually to over 1,400 retail locations across 19 states, including Lowe’s, The Home Depot, and Walmart. Art oversees production, growing, contract growing, and labor, bringing a lifetime of hands-on experience and business perspective to the company.
Following his term as Chairman, David Garcia will continue his service to the organization for an additional two years as Past Chairman.
Ken Young AAF, S and L Flower Company
Ken Young will continue serving on our Board of Trustees and Executive Committee through a special appointment focused on fundraising and development.
A past Board Chairman and longtime supporter of the Endowment, Ken has played a key role in advancing AFE’s fundraising efforts and strengthening relationships with donors. Through this appointment, he will continue to support fundraising initiatives and donor outreach to advance AFE’s mission.
Read the complete list of board appointments here.