As summer blooms around us, Southern Chapter is celebrating a season of connection and continued momentum. From an inspiring Symposium in Palm Springs to exciting announcements for the months ahead, there’s so much to share. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made together and energized by the opportunities still to come.
Southern Chapter Wins Foundation Grant Again!
We’re thrilled to share that Southern Chapter has once again won the $1,000 grant from the AIFD Foundation’s “Friends of the Foundation” initiative! Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this important effort. Your generosity directly fuels the future of floral education across our region.
Let’s keep the momentum going! Becoming a Friend of the AIFD Foundation is easy, and every donation—large or small—makes a difference. You can give monthly, annually, or with a one-time gift. Learn more or donate here: https://aifdfoundation.org/DonateFriend
Announcing the Second 2025 Edition of the David Shover AIFD Mentorship Program
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the David Shover AIFD Mentorship Program, now entering its second 2025 edition! This initiative is designed to help floral designers strengthen their skills and prepare for the 2026 PFDE® (Professional Floral Design Evaluation) exam, to be held during the AIFD® Symposium in Orlando, FL.
Southern Chapter is proud to open this mentorship opportunity to all prospective PFDE Candidates, regardless of location. Whether you’re planning to test at the state level or nationally, this is an invaluable chance to receive expert guidance, personalized support, and a strong foundation for success.
More details coming soon! In the meantime, if you or someone you know is interested, please reach out to:
Susan Bain AIFD – shbain1225@gmail.com
Terry Godfrey AIFD – terrygodfreyaifd@gmail.com
All proceeds from the program will go directly toward endowing the David Shover AIFD Fund, a cause close to our hearts and a vital part of Southern Chapter’s commitment to floral education. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow and take the next step in your floral journey.
Save the Date: Gather 2026
Mark your calendars! We’re excited to host Gather 2026, our signature educational retreat, March 6–9, 2026, at the Georgia FFA FCCLA Center in Covington, GA. This serene lodge-style setting offers the perfect setting for learning, connecting, and growing together.
Stay tuned, official registration details, program highlights, and speaker line-up are coming soon!
Southern Chapter Membership Meeting at Symposium
Our membership meeting in Palm Springs was filled with connection, celebration, and community. From officially welcoming the 2025 inductees to reflecting on a year of growth, it was a joy to gather in person.
We also introduced the 2025–2026 Southern Chapter Board:
President: James Ross Railey AIFD
President Elect: Andreia Muller AIFD
Vice President: Ralph Giordano AIFD
Secretary: Pattie Wallander AIFD
Treasurer: Cindy Tole AIFD
Past President: Marcela López-Vallejo AIFD
National Board Representative: Aisha Crivens AIFD
Southern Foundation Representative: Jody McLeod AIFD
Directors
2026 – Darcie Garcia AIFD, Linda K Speer AIFD, Michael Trogdon AIFD
2027 – Mitch Bennet AIFD, Sue Bain AIFD, Tammy Gibson AIFD
2028 – Mike Whittle AIFD, Jolene Powell AIFD, Martha Whitney Butler AIFD
Celebrating Our 2025 Inductees
One of the most heartfelt moments of the meeting was welcoming our newest members. Each inductee received their Southern Chapter pin, a special tradition that highlights the pride and unity of our region. Please join us in congratulating: John Grayson Henderson CFD, Karey Kelly CFD, David Parker CFD, Colby Peters CFD, Elisabeth Stover CFD, Faiber Vargas CFD, Anje Williams CFD, and Renee Younger CFD. Welcome to the Southern family!
Southern Chapter Members Out and About at Symposium
Palm Springs was full of floral energy, and Southern was everywhere! From main stage presentations and workshops to leadership meetings and after-hours connection, our chapter showed up with heart and style.
Scroll through some of our favorite moments and familiar faces below. We’re so proud of our members and all they contribute to the floral community!
As we move into the second half of the year, Southern Chapter remains committed to connection, education, and growth. Whether you’re a longtime member or newly inducted, there are so many ways to get involved, give back, and grow within this vibrant floral community. Thank you for being part of what makes Southern so special: there’s truly something about Southern, and it shows in everything we do.
