November 2013

The Quest for the Class of 2014 By Tim Hodson

I think it is pretty safe to say that most people in the horticulture industry know that this business is made up of a plethora of creative, compassionate and innovative individuals. As long as growers have been growing and selling plants, these types of individuals have been (and will continue to be) the lifeblood of the industry.

These are the kind of men and women that GPN recognizes each year when we compile our annual 40 Under 40 class — our salute to the next generation of horticulture.

Looking for the Latest Crop

We are now beginning our quest for the Class of 2014 of GPN's 40 Under 40 that will appear in our May issue. Creativity, compassion and innovation are just a few of the traits we look for each year when we pay tribute to the horticulture industry's young outstanding individuals.

We want to identify those professionals who are doing business like no one else. People that are making the inspired and/or crucial decisions to help propel the industry into the future. We are looking for those horticulture industry leaders (under the age of 40) who have the people skills, the technical know-how and resourcefulness that separates them from the rest of the pack.

Do you know someone who you feel is a real up-and-comer who has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the industry? Does he or she have exemplary leadership skills both in business as well as in their community?

We want to highlight their accomplishments and contributions so the rest of the industry can learn about them and, more importantly, learn from them!

If you know someone who you think might qualify for the Class of 2014*, then please nominate him or her. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 20, 2014.

You can find the 2014 nomination form at www.gpnmag.com/40-under-40-nomination.

*Anyone in the horticulture industry under the age of 40 (as of Jan. 31, 2014) can be nominated for the Class of 2014. Individuals nominated in 2012 and 2013, but who did not make the final 40, can be nominated again this year.