2016 Award Winners

AIFD® announced five 2016 award winners on July 5 during the Institute’s Awards Ceremony held in conjunction with the National Symposium “Inspiration” in Orange County, Calif.

Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry

Jim DelPrince AIFD, CFD

Jim DelPrince AIFD, CFD, PFCI has been recognized with the Award of Distinguished Service to the Floral Industry. This award is presented to AIFD members who have made a significant contribution to the floral industry. DelPrince was honored for his tireless and continued support of AIFD as a leader, mentor, supporter, volunteer and friend. Inducted into AIFD in 1992, Jim has helped further the floral industry through his contributions to industry resources and education. As a Horticulture Specialist at Mississippi State University, DelPrince has served as a Professor and Student Chapter Advisor. He is also recognized as an AIFD Laureate member, a special member category for those with 21 years or more of membership and who have also attended a minimum of ten (10) National Symposia.

Award of Distinguished Service to AIFD

Lori Novak AIFD, CFD

Award of Merit Industry

Fiesta Parade Floats

Fiesta Parade Floats has been recognized with the Award of Merit – Industry. This is an award that is presented to professionals in the floral industry who are not a member of AIFD, but who are serving a crucial role in advancing the industry. Fiesta Parade Floats was honored for their tremendous support of the industry and of floral associations. They have been a tireless supporter of AIFD.

Award of Design Influence

René van Rems AIFD, CFD

René van Rems AIFD, CFD has been recognized with the Award of Design Influence. This is an award that is presented to floral design visionaries whose creative body of work has national influence and constitutes a legacy of innovation.

Award of Merit – Non-Industry

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres has been recognized with the Award of Merit – Non-Industry. This is an award that is presented to individuals outside the floral industry who are selected because of their personal or professional use of fresh flowers in such a manner as to be a credit to the floral profession.