Six students from Texas Tech University's Department of Plant and Soil Science participated in the 2018 West Texas - New Mexico Florists Association Convention in Lubbock over the weekend (Aug. 3-5). A portion of their time was spent assisting American Institute of Floral Designers.

Among the students' duties were assisting with preparation of presentations, and modeling for a bridal show, said Russ Plowman, an instructor of horticulture with Tech's Department of Plant and Soil Science. In addition, the students meet with area florists, Texas FFA teachers and several nationally-recognized florists on the convention floor.

Representing Texas Tech at the meeting were Kolbie Tyler, a senior plant and soil science major from Sachse; Adeline Stadnyk, a sophomore plant and soil science major from Evans, Georgia; Nathan Turner, a graduate student plant and soil science major from Breckenridge; Madeline Goettsch, a senior plant and soil science major from Allen; Derek Reed, a graduate student horticulture science major from Marble Falls; and recent graduate Melanie White, a human development & family studies major from Granbury.

"The students worked diligently, and exhibited a desire to learn," Plowman said. "They positively promoted Texas Tech University, the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources and the Department of Plant and Soil Science."

Established in 1965, the American Institute of Floral Designers is one of the oldest and largest non-profit organization dedicated to recognizing and promoting the art of floral design as a professional career. With more than 1,200 members. The group engages in a variety of professional programs and activities through a network of six regional chapters throughout the United States and Canada.

CONTACT: Eric Hequet, Department Chair, Department of Plant and Soil Science, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2838 or eric.hequet@ttu.edu

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