American Floral Endowment

Celebrating A United Industry – American Floral Endowment’s R.I.S.E. to Support Campaign Exceeds Goal

July 19, 2023 American Floral Endowment

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) celebrates and thanks the many industry supporters, sponsors, and friends who contributed to this year’s annual fundraiser, R.I.S.E. to Support. Over $135,000 was raised in support of the floral industry through the Endowment’s 2023 Campaign. The success of the campaign shows how committed and united our industry is to ongoing progress, supporting future generations, education, and research. …

Memorial Tribute Established in Memory of Gene Willis

July 11, 2023 American Floral Endowment

A memorial tribute honoring Gene Merrill Willis has been established through the American Floral Endowment (AFE) by Pete Garcia Company/Garcia Group. Gene M. Willis, 81, of Jamul, CA, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his home on March 22, 2023. He is most known by the industry through his career of work at San Diego Florist Supplies, Inc. …

Keeping Flowers Fresh: New AFE-Funded Research Exploring Alternatives to Ethylene Inhibitors

June 27, 2023 American Floral Endowment

In the floriculture industry, ethylene’s effects can significantly reduce the quality and longevity of cut flowers during storage and transport. AFE-funded researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington have been hard at work trying to find a way to inhibit ethylene’s adverse effects, and recent discoveries may offer promising alternatives to the methods currently in use.  …

Announcing AFE’s Paul Ecke, Jr. and Altman Family Scholars

May 30, 2023 American Floral Endowment

These six individuals have a plethora of accomplishments in the industry and have their sights set on even further growth. AFE strives to uplift young professionals and support them as they pursue futures in our industry. …

The American Floral Endowment’s 2023 Fundraising Campaign R.I.S.E. to Support

May 16, 2023 American Floral Endowment

R.I.S.E. up to support the floral industry! In an effort to continue to increase support for important research, education, and other floriculture programs to advance our industry, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) is conducting an annual virtual fundraising campaign.  …