Department of Horticultural Sciences

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Centers and Programs of Excellence

Benz School of Floral DesignBenz School image
Established as the bequest of M. "Buddy" Benz, the Benz Endowed Chair and School of Floral Design is a multifaceted program. It includes the Benz Gallery of Floral Art located in the expansive atrium of the Horticulture Forest Sciences Building, the Benz School of Floral Design which holds four advanced training courses for floral designers annually, and the activities of the Chair holder, Mr. Jim Johnson, world renowned designer and teacher.
Basye Rose Breeding and Genetics ProgramBasye Program image
Robert Basye was a mathematics professor by vocation, but a world-class rose breeder by avocation. Breeding roses to increase resistance to diseases was his passion and conquering the blackspot disease of roses was his lifetime goal. His generous donation established an endowed professorship to support rose breeding and genetics. The current holder of that distinguished professorship is Dr. David Byrne.
Ellison Chair in International FloricultureEllison Chair image
The Ellison Chair in International Floriculture is named after Jim and Ellen Ellison, who spearheaded the campaign to generate industry funding for the Chair.  The mission of this Chair is to advance the health and vitality of the floriculture industry on a national and international scope through exemplary academic leadership, cutting edge applied research, innovative extension outreach programs, and by mentoring well-educated, impassioned leaders to support the future of floriculture. The current holder of the Ellison Chair is Dr. Charlie Hall.
Vegetable and Fruit Improvement CenterVFIC image