AFE prepares to launch annual intern scholarship programs

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is preparing to launch its annual Vic & Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship Program and Mosmiller Intern Scholarship Program, providing nine talented students with hands-on opportunities in the floral industry this summer.

The programs offer paid internships at top-tier production and retail operations across the country. The Vic & Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship Program places students in commercial greenhouses or nurseries for three to six months, offering scholarships up to $6,000. Participants are also eligible for the Paul Thomas Floriculture Production Intern of the Year Award, which includes additional perks like conference attendance and networking opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Mosmiller Intern Scholarship Program immerses students in leading floral retail, wholesale, or supplier businesses for 10 to 16 weeks, awarding $2,000 upon completion.

“These programs are pivotal for nurturing new talent in the floral industry,” said an AFE spokesperson. “They provide invaluable professional experience and financial support, ensuring these students are well-prepared for successful careers.”

2024 Vic & Margaret Ball Internship Awards

BRIANNA WILSON

• 4-month internship from May-September 2024 at Altman Plants in Peyton, Colorado
• Scholarship award: $4,000

LAUREN SWEARINGEN

• 3-month internship from May-August 2024 at Altman Plants in Peyton, Colorado
• Scholarship award: $1,500

AUBREY MCKENNA

• 3-month internship from May-August 2024 at Emerald Coast Growers in Pensacola, Florida
• Scholarship award: $1,500

HALEY KOST

• 3-month internship from June – September 2024 at North Creek Nurseries in Landenberg, Pennsylvania
• Scholarship award: $1,500

REBEKAH ZOBELL

• 3-month internship from May-August 2024 at PlantPeddler in Cresco, Iowa
• Scholarship award: $1,500

SAMANTHA ELIZABETH DONOGHUE

• 6-month internship from January 2025 – July 2025 at Tagawa Greenhouses in Brighton, Colorado
• Scholarship award: $6,000

2024 Mosmiller Internship Awards

ALIVIA BEANLAND

• 13-week internship from May 2024 – August 2024 at Tiger Garden in Columbia, Missouri
• Scholarship Award: $2,000

MARIA CERVANTES

• Maria is completing a 13-week internship (June – September 2024) with Poly Plant & Floral Shop in San Luis Obispo, California
• Scholarship Award $2,000

MACKENZIE HARTLEY

• 13-week internship from June-September 2024 with Unbound Floral Design in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
• Scholarship Award $2,000

For more details on the internship programs and this year’s recipients, visit AFE’s website.