Above and Beyond

American Floral EndowmentAt BioWorks, we’re preparing the world for the next generation who will follow in our footsteps. We feel strongly that the younger generation can use all the support we can offer. Which is why we’ve chosen to put our support behind the American Floral Endowment.

Founded in 1961, the AFE is the leading non-for-profit 501© (3) funding source for floricultural/environmental horticulture research and educational programs in the U.S. It’s supported by more than 1,000 companies and individuals throughout the industry, including BioWorks. Students are selected based on exemplary academic performance and a grade point average of 3.0 or better, with the ideal winning student showing a passion for the use of IPM or other sustainable practices.

The application deadline for a scholarship is May 1st of each year. After evaluation, the scholarship is awarded at the end of July/Early August.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Conner GoodwinConner Goodwin

University of Florida, 2021

Connor attended the University of Florida majoring in Plant Science with a focus on Soils and graduating with honors with a 4.0 GPA. Connor was also a regular fixture on the Dean’s list and nominated as the President of the school’s Organic Gardeners Club. His most fulfilling accomplishment has been his mentorship with Project SAINT, a horticulture/agriculture program that trains troubled youth and adults with disabilities.

Sage Drohan

Orange Coast College, 2020

Drohan attended Orange Coast College majoring in Landscape Architecture with a focus toward sustainable design and horticulture. In 2016 Drohan started her own business, Sage Succulents and Cacti. “I want to expand my company by providing drought tolerant landscaping services to both residential and commercial clients,” said Drohan. She plans to join the Peace Corps to continue informing people about sustainability.

Leala Machesney

University of Maine, 2018

Leala attended the University of Maine majoring in Environmental Horticulture. She will be attending graduate school to deepen her understanding of horticultural science, with the hopes of opening a native plant nursery participating in ecosystem restoration efforts.

Emily Perry

University of Massachusetts, 2017

Perry attended the University of Massachusetts, earning a bachelor’s degree in sustainable horticulture, and wants to focus on floral material, annuals and perennials within the green industry. She is interested in eventually becoming an agriculture teacher to educate on floral design and greenhouse management, as well as owning her own successful garden center.