AIFD and FFA Join Forces:
Provides Inspiration for Students at 2010 FFA Convention
Over 50,000 blue jackets created quite the scene recently at the annual National FFA Convention. As a major component of its Career Development initiative, the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD) is exploring options for partnering with FFA to encourage greater participation ini its floral design programs.
The Career Development Committee participated with last year's convention on Thursday, Oct. 21. The two-hour session was attended by instructors and students who were in Indianapolis to be part of the National competition in floriculture for FFA. Tom Simmons AIFD organized an on-stage demonstration entitled, "FUN-damental Florals: Lifestyle Designs," which was presented by designers Carolyn Clark Kurek AIFD, Alan Thompson AIFD and moderated by Alice Waterous AIFD. Also in attendance were Cindy Ching AIFD, AIFD Regional Director Jim Rauch and AIFD President Sharon McGukin.
"The kids were great, the event well organized, the leaders very positive, the attendance incredible, and the potential there for AIFD involvement--obvious," said Simmons. "I can honestly say that I have never seen that many young people at one time being so well behaved. It was truly a sight to behold."
The stage presentation took place before an audience of both instructors and FFA students. The concept of the seminar examined six different design styles, beginning with a basic textbook description of the style, then moving the same style to intermediate and contemporary looks by using other materials and new techniques to 
create interest and inspire young designers to discover the art of creative floral design. While the designers completed designs onstage, the moderator provided information regarding the principles and elements of design. A highlight at the closing of the seminar was the invitation of an audience member to join the designers onstage for an "Iron Designer" competition, where all participants were given the same product to create their own composition in a set time limit.
"Sitting in a coliseum with 55,000 great kids cheering, laughing, dancing and having a good time while presenting themselves as very accomplished, well-mannered and polite young adults was awe inspiring," said McGukin. "When Tom, Alice and I were standing outside the auditorium, Alice said, 'This just gives you hope for the future.' We were all impressed."
Questions were encouraged and were met with requests for additional information. Publications were given to audience members providing details regarding AIFD membership, online classes, hands-on workshops, the AIFD Guide to Floral Design and a "Save the Date" card for IMAGINE symposium in San Francisco. They were also given an AIFD color wheel. An information table of publications was set up for direct contact with those who had additional questions.
At the end of the event, AIFD provided the attendees with an evaluation form. We received great feedback from the students regarding ways AIFD can refine this program as it progresses. The onsite Career Development team agreed that the event was a great success.
"This event was well worth our investment," said McGukin. "Just think... there are approximately 525,000 FFA members nationwide. What a potential audience!"
One of the goals of the Career Development committee is to work at becoming the "education partner" that FFA reaches out to for information and guidance for their floral-related programs. Encouraging FFA instructors to take AIFD's online classes is another goal while at the same time promoting CFD to those instructors interested.
The committee met with FFA officials to discuss future opportunities with FFA and each person was impressed by the extraordinary quality of the program and the presence of the students.
As AIFD moves forward with this program, Simmons will consult with Joyce Mason-Monheim AIFD as she directs the Education Committee in writing curriculum for this initiative. Primary to this initiative is the plan to create a system that utilizes the time and talents of local AIFD members in each region to work with FFA chapters in their area.
Through determination and continued research, AIFD has connected to the Senior Director of the Education Division Tony Small, who will continue to explore opportunities and partnerships that will benefit both organizations as well as stimulate interest in the minds of those students looking for a career in the floral industry.
