The Floriculture Hall of Fame is the floral industry’s highest honor, recognizing individuals whose service, leadership, and integrity have set the standard for excellence. 

The objectives are: 

• To honor individuals of strong character and integrity whose outstanding and lasting contributions have advanced floriculture as an essential part of American life. 
• To ensure the perpetuation of the memories of such men and women by enshrining their good works in a manner befitting their contributions. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 10 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Floriculture Hall of Fame Nomination Form

The Paul Ecke, Jr. Award, established in 1984, recognizes an individual for exemplary devotion to the floral profession, industry, and community. Paul Ecke Jr., (1925-2002) was the visionary horticulturist who revolutionized the poinsettia industry by developing modern propagation techniques and pioneering national marketing that made the poinsettia America’s iconic holiday plant. Originally known as the Golden Bouquet Award, it was renamed in 2002 in memory of Paul Ecke, Jr., AAF, to honor his lasting influence and leadership. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 5 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Paul Ecke, Jr. Award Nomination Form

The Gold Medal Award honors the originator or introducer of a plant or flower that has achieved wide distribution and established itself as an outstanding product of significant horticultural and commercial value. This prestigious recognition highlights innovation and excellence in advancing the floral industry. 

Eligibility: This award may be given for any plant or flower that has been disseminated for at least 5 years 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 5 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Gold Medal Award Nomination Form

The John H. Walker Award recognizes the vital role of association executives in advancing the mission and goals of their association and the overall industry. Established in 1979 to honor SAF’s long-time Executive Vice President, John H. Walker, this award celebrates outstanding leadership and enduring contributions to the association and the floral industry. 

Eligibility: 

• Nominations must be endorsed by the president of the employing association(s). 
• Recipients must be employed (i.e., paid staff) by a member association of SAF. 
• Recipients must have a minimum of three years of continuous service with the member association. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 3 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

John H. Walker Award Nomination Form

The Alex Laurie Award for Research and Education honors an individual who has made significant, lasting contributions to research or education in the floriculture industry. Presented annually, this award recognizes broad-scope achievements that advance knowledge, strengthen education, and contribute to the growth and success of the floral profession. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 3 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Alex Laurie Award for Research and Education Nomination Form

The Century Award honors businesses and organizations that have served the floral industry for 100 years or more. Established in 1982, this prestigious recognition celebrates a century of dedication and contribution to the industry’s growth and success. 

Eligibility: Nominations must have been in business for at least 100 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Century Award Nomination Form

The Rising Star Award recognizes a young floral industry professional for their outstanding achievements and commitment to the profession. This award honors forward-thinking individuals who demonstrate creativity, innovation, tenacity, and leadership in their work, and who show the potential to make a lasting, positive impact on the floral industry. Recipients embody the promise and future of the profession. 

Eligibility: Any floral industry professional (inclusive of all segments) aged 45 and under. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 3 years. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026

Rising Star Award Nomination Form

Presented in honor of Ethyl “Tommy” Bright, PFCI’s most prestigious designation signifies a lifetime commitment to commentating excellence in the floral industry. The Tommy Bright Award is awarded annually to a member of the Professional Floral Communicators-International. 

Eligibility: 

• A presenter and educator/teacher 
• Current SAF member 
• A member in good standing of PFCI for at least 10 years 
• PFCI Board of Trustees members are ineligible for nomination during their term as a trustee. 

Nomination and review process: The PFCI Board of Trustees reviews nomination forms annually during its spring meeting in March and determines the recipient by a unanimous decision. 

Active period: Nominations stay active for a period of 3 years. 

Deadline: March 1, 2026

Tommy Bright Award Nomination Form

PFCI Members eligible for the 2026 Tommy Bright Award