William McKinley, AIFD, is the director of the Benz School of Floral Design at Texas A&M University. He enjoys floral design because it combines the “the creativity of the arts and the science of plants.”
The Society of American Florists’ membership includes all segments of the industry — and that community is the heart of SAF. This bi-weekly feature spotlights SAF members sharing inspirational stories, professional insights, and the opportunity to form new industry connections.
When William McKinley, AIFD, was in college he envisioned himself pursuing a career in greenhouse production. That changed during his senior year when he took a floral design class to complete his curriculum. He enjoyed it so much that he applied to graduate school at Texas A&M University, where he worked closely with the former director of the Benz School of Floral Design at Texas A&M University, Jim Johnson. Johnson became a mentor, friend and colleague.
After graduating, McKinley worked for the FloraLife, owned and operated his own flower shop, and taught design at Kishwaukee Community College, in Malta, Illinois for 23 years. Upon Johnson’s retirement, McKinley returned to Texas A&M University as director of the design school.
“Floral design combines the creativity of the arts and the science of plants, making a wonderful blending for aesthetic enjoyment,” McKinley says.
What Excites Him
“The best thing is watching the growth of design skill in students and seeing the proverbial ‘light bulb’ moment when they understand the design concept we are practicing,” McKinley says. “It is also rewarding to take something as beautiful as a flower and enhance that beauty in a completed floral design.”
His Secret to Success
McKinley feels there are two things that have contributed to his success: connections and knowledge of plants.
“First, I think that making connections within the industry is critical, whether it is for supplies, fresh materials, or design ideas, creating a network of people that you can count on is essential,” McKinley says. “Second, I think that actually knowing how a flower or plant grows and responds to its environment has given me insights for how to use them in designs.”
Ways to Unwind
When he’s not working, McKinley enjoys gardening to keep in touch with plants and get his hands dirty; woodworking to see the beauty in the wood grain while making something useful;, sitting on his porch reading a good book; and traveling with his wife to take in the beauty of botanic and public gardens around the country.
Why SAF?
McKinley joined SAF to be a part of a national organization dedicated to growing and promoting the entire floral industry.
“The resources available from SAF are vast, which I use to augment and update my class curriculums,” McKinley says. “I know that the information will be accurate and up to date.”
McKinley was recently featured on SAF’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
Do you know a member who should have a chance in the spotlight? Email Stephanie Brady, project manager for SAF.
Stephanie Brady is the project manager for the Society of American Florists.
