Spotlighting emerging leaders in the horticulture industry

Added on 02 July 2021

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Spotlighting emerging leaders in the horticulture industry

COLUMBUS, OH - For the past fifteen years, AmericanHort has identified and supported emerging leaders in the horticulture industry through the HortScholar Program. After a rigorous application process, six students are chosen who show qualities such as a passion for the industry, growth mindset, teamwork, and leadership. Previous classes of HortScholars have gone on to become successful horticultural researchers, educators, growers, retailers, and much more - and the class of 2021 promises to do the same.

The 2021 HortScholars will be set on a path to success at Cultivate'21 where they will be exposed to the breadth of the horticulture industry, its opportunities, and its leaders. The program offers a beyond-the-classroom experience, giving insight and awareness of the industry, its supply chain, and where they might find a home for their passion. With a focus on professional development, the HortScholars will attend educational sessions, network, and explore the horticulture industry at Cultivate'21.

AmericanHort is excited to announce the HortScholar class of 2021. Take a moment to get to know them in their own words.

JAYDEN BLACK - OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

Growing plants and loving nature has been my passion for my entire lifefor as long as I can remember. Though my first experience consisted of tending to a weed patch in my grandmother's garden in Midwest, Ohio, it wasn't long before I was exploring the world of ornamental horticulture. This hunger to learn more and expand my experience naturally led me to pursue a degree in horticulture at Ohio State University, one in Sustainable Plant Systems (Horticulture Specialization) and the other in Agriculture Business. I continuously strive to create sustainable, ecologically functional, and horticulturally enriched landscapes for people to enjoy. This industry combines my creativity, communication skills, and passion for plants, and I am excited to join the industry as a professional following my graduation in May of 2022. My goal has evolved into sharing and exploring my love of plants with others, and I hope to have a career in horticulture production, outreach, education, or state extension. I believe in the immense potential of teaching the world how to grow beautiful plantsinspiring others to make a change.

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