The floral industry is built on passion, creativity, and a commitment to continuous growth. That is why Gardens America® is proud to celebrate President Kristin Gilliland on her induction into the Society of American Florists’ (SAF) American Academy of Floriculture (AAF), one of the industry’s highest professional honors.

Kristin will be officially inducted during the Stars of the Industry Awards Dinner at SAF Amelia Island 2026, taking place Aug. 18 to 20 as part of SAF’s 141st Annual Convention.

The American Academy of Floriculture recognizes floral professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, industry service and dedication to advancing the floral profession. Inductees are selected through a rigorous application process that evaluates their contributions to both the floral industry and their local communities.

For Kristin, the recognition reflects a lifelong commitment to strengthening the industry and supporting the people who make it thrive.

“The floral industry has been my second family for as long as I can remember,” said Kristin Gilliland, president of Gardens America®. “Over the years, I have built incredible friendships that have enriched my life far beyond business. Ours is a resilient, optimistic and relationship-driven community, and I am grateful to be a part of it. It has been an honor to continue paying it forward, as so many have done for me.”

Beyond leading Gardens America®, Kristin serves on SAF’s Convention Committee and is a trustee of the American Floral Endowment, continually investing in the future of the floral industry through education, mentorship and collaboration.

Her induction also reflects the values that drive Gardens America® every day. From sourcing premium fresh-cut flowers from trusted growers around the world to supporting floral professionals with dependable service, market expertise and meaningful relationships, Gardens America® remains committed to helping customers and the industry flourish together.

The 2026 AAF class includes six distinguished professionals from across the country whose leadership and service continue to elevate the floral community. Their collective contributions demonstrate the importance of giving back, sharing knowledge and inspiring future generations of floral professionals.

Gardens America® also congratulates all of the 2026 inductees into both the American Academy of Floriculture and Professional Floral Communicators International (PFCI). Their achievements reflect the innovation, education and dedication that continue to move the floral industry forward.

As the industry gathers at SAF Amelia Island this August, Gardens America® looks forward to celebrating this incredible milestone alongside colleagues, partners and friends who share a passion for advancing floriculture.

Congratulations, Kristin, on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your continued leadership in helping our industry bloom.