The Society of American Florists (SAF) is looking for nominations for its industry awards and professional certifications, celebrating excellence, leadership, and innovation in the floral industry. Honorees will be recognized during the Stars of the Industry Awards Experience at SAF Phoenix 2025, the organization's 140th annual convention, taking place Aug. 11-14 in Scottsdale, Arizona.
"Recognizing excellence within our industry not only celebrates individual achievement but also strengthens our community," says Leanne Kesler, AAF, AIFD, FDI, PFCI, education director of Floral Design Institute and recipient of the 2024 Tommy Bright Award. "A nomination is a powerful way to uplift and acknowledge the dedication, creativity, and contributions of your peers."
Professional certifications and deadlines
SAF is accepting applications for the following certifications:
- Professional Floral Communicators-International (PFCI) – PFCI is a network of certified floral educators, recognized for their expertise in floral design, care and handling, and business management (due March 8).
- American Academy of Floriculture (AAF) – Recognizes individuals who have dedicated time and energy to bettering both the floral industry and their local communities. (due April 1).
Award categories and deadlines
SAF is accepting nominations for the following awards:
Due March 1
- Tommy Bright Award – Honors a PFCI member for a lifetime commitment to excellence in floral presentation
Due April 1:
- Gold Medal Award – Recognizes a professional who has originated or introduced a widely distributed plant or flower.
- Century Award – Celebrates businesses that have served the floral industry for 100+ years.
- Alex Laurie Award for Research and Education – Honors an individual who has made broad-scope, long-lasting contributions to floriculture research or education.
- Floriculture Hall of Fame – The industry's highest honor, recognizing outstanding service and professional responsibility.
- John H. Walker Award – Recognizes floral association executives for their leadership in the industry.
- Paul Ecke, Jr. Award – Honors an individual with exemplary devotion to the profession, industry, and community.
- Next Gen Rising Star Award – Celebrates young professionals (ages 45 and under) who demonstrate creativity, innovation, and leadership in the floral industry.
SAF's awards recognize exceptional individuals and businesses that have made a lasting impact on the floral industry. Tim Farrell, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, a Paul Ecke Jr. Award honoree in 2024 and Tommy Bright Award recipient in 2023, encourages floral professionals to submit nominations to honor and inspire others.
"The stories of the careers of these award winners might inspire them to take on new challenges and even new leadership positions within the floral industry," he says.
If you wish to submit a nomination for these awards, you can do so by clicking here.
For more information:
SAF
safnow.org