FNGLA celebrates annual convention, honors industry leaders

The Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA) recently hosted its 74th Annual Convention, bringing together industry leaders, growers, landscape professionals, suppliers and advocates from across the state. 

As the nation's largest state nursery and landscape association, FNGLA continues to serve as a leading voice for Florida's green industry, which generates billions of dollars in annual economic activity and supports thousands of jobs across the state.

This year's convention provided members with educational programming, networking opportunities and discussions focused on the future of Florida horticulture.

"Each year, our annual membership gathering provides an opportunity to celebrate the individuals and organizations that strengthen Florida's nursery and landscape industry while preparing for the opportunities and challenges ahead," said FNGLA CEO Tal Coley. “This year’s award recipients embody the innovation, stewardship and service that make Florida’s green industry such an essential part of our state’s economy and quality of life.” 

A highlight of the convention was the presentation of FNGLA's annual awards recognizing individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on Florida's nursery and landscape industry.

Among those honored was Kathy Mears, assistant commissioner and chief of staff to Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson. Mears received the Friend of the Industry Award, which recognizes individuals whose advocacy and support have significantly benefited Florida's green industry.

Throughout her career in public service, Mears has been a champion for Florida's agriculture, working to ensure its long-term sustainability, which is essential to Florida’s economy and America’s national security.

Additional award recipients included:

• Wendell E. Butler Award: Jerry Stageman, Sunset Groundcover
• FNGLA Hall of Fame: Marvin Gross
• FNGLA Hall of Fame: George Hackney, Hackney Nursery
• FNGLA/Farm Credit Young Professional: Reilly Brooks, BioSafe Systems LLC
• Outstanding Chapter Leader: Jay Perez, Bloomings Landscape & Turf Management
• Outstanding Volunteer: Patrick Prussing, Southern Agricultural Insecticides, Inc. 
• Outstanding Educator: Justine Snyder, Lake Nona High School

Editor's note: Look for a new podcast episode on The Growth Industry featuring George Hackney on his industry experience, labor management, automation and succession planning. 

The convention also marked the installation of FNGLA's new Executive Committee for the coming year. The newly elected officers include:

• President" Jennifer Parrish, Farm Credit of Central Florida
• President-Elect: Jeff DeMott, Redland Nursery
• Secretary/Treasurer: Erin Jenkins Banas, Jenkins Landscape Co.

The incoming leadership team will help guide the association's efforts to support member businesses, advocate for industry priorities and advance the future of Florida's nursery and landscape sector.