Art Van Wingerden named as AFE chairman elect

The American Floral Endowment has named Art Van Wingerden, COO of Metrolina Greenhouses, as chairman-elect of its board of trustees.

Van Wingerden will begin a two-year term as chairman in September 2026, succeeding current chairman David Garcia of Pete Garcia Company and Garcia Group. After his term concludes, Garcia will serve an additional two years as past chairman.

Van Wingerden helps lead Metrolina Greenhouses in Huntersville, North Carolina, one of the largest greenhouse operations in the United States. The family-run company, founded in 1972, produces more than 70 million plants annually and supplies more than 1,400 retail locations across 19 states including Lowe’s, The Home Depot and Walmart. He oversees production, growing, contract growing and labor operations.

The leadership transition comes as the American Floral Endowment marks its 65th anniversary. The organization funds research, education and scholarships aimed at supporting the floriculture industry, including greenhouse growers and suppliers.

Van Wingerden joined the AFE board of trustees in 2018 and has served on both the research committee and executive committee. He has also supported programs such as Sustainabloom, which provides research-based sustainability resources for the industry.

“I’m honored to partner with AFE’s dedicated Board of Trustees, respected industry leaders and staff as we continue advancing our mission, expanding our programs and increasing the funding that fuels innovation and progress,” said Van Wingerden.

AFE’s board includes representatives from across the floral supply chain, including growers, wholesalers, retailers and suppliers. Trustees volunteer their time to support research, education and scholarship initiatives for the industry.