40 Under 40, Class of 2014

Sonali Padhye, Ph.D.

Company

Pan American Seed/ Ball Horticultural Co., Asheville, N.C.

Job Title

Technical Services Manager

Accomplishments

Consults and collaborates with growers around the country to develop and implement floriculture research; identify and diagnose growing challenges; and enhance production efficiencies. Has published 10 refereed articles and authored more than 30 floriculture trade magazine articles on her research and related greenhouse production topics.

Extracurricular

Outside the Greenhouse: Sonali enjoys making beaded jewelry, painting, sketching, hiking and cooking. “I like to create fusion dishes with hints of Indian and western cuisine.”

Fun Facts

A Lily By Any Other Name: In recognition of her research efforts, Tiny Padhye Asiatic lily was named after her.