Industry awards do more than honor individual careers — they celebrate the values and vision that help our industry thrive year after year. Recognizing excellence inspires both recipients and peers, reinforcing what’s possible when passion and professionalism intersect.
“These honors tell the story of who we are as an industry,” says Renee Tucci, AAF, AIFD, PFCI, the 2026 chair of the Society of American Florists Awards Committee. “When we recognize someone’s dedication, innovation or service, we’re also celebrating the values that move all of us forward. The ceremony isn’t just about applause — it’s about momentum.”
SAF recognizes outstanding contributors to the industry through its annual awards and certifications and is seeking nominations to honor professionals from all segments whose work has made a meaningful impact on our industry. The deadline to submit nominations is April 1.
These honors don’t just spotlight individual achievement — they reflect the spirit of the industry itself. “You see peers cheering for peers. Competitors standing to celebrate one another,” Tucci says. “It reinforces that we’re part of something bigger than our individual businesses.”
That sense of connection was deeply felt by 2025 Paul Ecke Jr. Award recipient Dianna Nordman, AAF, when she learned she had been selected for one of the industry’s most meaningful honors. The Paul Ecke Jr. Award celebrates professionals whose lifelong contributions reflect deep devotion to the floral community.
“You don’t do this work expecting recognition — you do it because you love the people and the purpose behind it,” Nordman says. “To be acknowledged by colleagues you respect so much is incredibly humbling.”
For Nordman, the award represents something larger than a personal milestone.
“The Paul Ecke Jr. Award isn’t just about one person’s career,” she says. “It reflects the mentors who guided you, the teams who stood beside you, and the community that shaped you. I see it as a shared achievement — and a reminder to keep giving back.”
Nominations and applications are being accepted until April 1 for:
- Floriculture Hall of Fame – The floral industry’s highest honor, recognizing individuals whose service, leadership and integrity have set a lasting standard of excellence.
- Paul Ecke Jr. Award – Established in 1984, this award recognizes an individual for exemplary devotion to the floral profession, industry and community. It honors the legacy of Paul Ecke Jr., the visionary horticulturist whose innovations made the poinsettia an American holiday staple.
- Gold Medal Award – Honors the originator or introducer of a plant or flower that has achieved wide distribution and significant horticultural and commercial impact.
- John H. Walker Award – Celebrates outstanding association executives whose leadership has advanced their organization and strengthened the industry.
- Alex Laurie Award for Research and Education – Recognizes achievements that advance knowledge, strengthen education, and contribute to the growth and success of the floral profession.
- Century Award – Recognizes businesses and organizations that have served the floral industry for 100 years or more.
- Rising Star Award – Honors young professionals (45 and under) whose creativity, innovation and leadership demonstrate exceptional potential to shape the future of the industry.
SAF is also accepting applications for the American Academy of Floriculture (AAF), credentials that distinguish floral professionals for consistently demonstrating their dedication to advancing the floral industry and serving their local communities.
(Tommy Bright Award nominations and PFCI applications deadline closed on March 1.)
Nominations and AAF applications are reviewed by SAF’s Awards Committee and recipients will be celebrated during the Stars of the Industry Awards Ceremony at SAF’s annual convention in Amelia Island, Florida, Aug. 18-20.
Your Nomination Matters
Do you know someone who deserves recognition? Visit SAF’s Awards and Certifications page for full details on nomination criteria and to access submission forms — and help make sure outstanding accomplishments don’t go unnoticed.
Celeste O’Keefe is the events project specialist for the Society of American Florists and the staff liaison for the Awards Committee.
