As we head into summer, excitement is building across Southern Chapter! With Symposium just around the corner, this is a season of connection and renewed commitment to education and growth. We’re proud to share a few highlights and reminders as we prepare for Palm Springs and beyond.
Become a Friend of the AIFD Foundation
Support the future of floral education, and help Southern Chapter win a $1,000 grant again this year. Joining is easy, and every donation counts. You can give monthly, annually, or make a one-time gift—any amount makes a difference.
Make your donation before July 14th to help us take the lead once again. Last year’s grant directly supported our chapter’s educational programming. Let’s make it happen again.
Donate here: https://aifdfoundation.org/DonateFriend
Save the Date: Southern Chapter Membership Meeting at Symposium
We invite all AIFD and CFD members to attend our Southern Chapter meeting at Symposium on Friday, July 11th, 2025, from 4:00–5:00 PM at AIFD® National Symposium in Palm Springs, CA.
This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with peers, learn about upcoming initiatives, and celebrate the chapter’s recent achievements.
One of the highlights of the meeting will be the official welcome of our 2025 inductees. We’re thrilled to present each inductee with their Southern Chapter pin, a meaningful way to recognize their accomplishments and welcome them into our chapter family. Don’t miss this special moment. AIFD Southern Chapter 2025 Inductees: 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.
Member Recognition at FSFA Convention
Earlier this month, the Florida State Florists’ Association (FSFA) successfully held its annual convention, with several Southern Chapter members playing a key role in its success.
The convention featured main stage presentations by Southern Chapter Past President Jody McLeod AIFD, Samantha Bates AIFD, and Ralph Giordano AIFD. In addition, Ian Prosser AIFD and Jody McLeod AIFD led inspiring workshops that showcased their talent and expertise.
Congratulations to our members who earned their Florida State Master Designer (FSMD) designation: Sharon Ivey AIFD, Eddie Dooling CFD, Stephanie Navas CFD, Ken Proctor CFD and Felicia Goett CFD.
A special congratulations goes to our very own Southern Chapter Treasurer, Ralph Giordano AIFD, who was named Retailer of the Year. This well-deserved recognition honors his passion and dedication to seeing our floral industry thrive. Congratulations, Ralph, we are so proud of you!
As always, thank you for being a part of what makes Southern Chapter strong. Your support, passion, and involvement are what keep us blooming. We look forward to seeing many of you at Symposium and sharing another inspiring year of artistry, leadership, and community.
