WKU News

The Western Kentucky University Dr. James M. Martin Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers (SAIFD) has claimed the first-place overall title in the student competition at the National AIFD Symposium in Orlando, Florida, earlier this month.

In addition to the team's national victory, WKU students excelled individually, bringing home top honors in seven distinct competition categories.

"This is a testament not only to the students' talent and hard work, but to Roger Dennis’ skill and mentorship."

The national win highlights the exceptional quality of WKU’s Agricultural and Floristry programs housed within the Ogden College of Science and Engineering.

WKU students dominated the individual leaderboards, with several team members securing prestigious professional credentials and podium finishes:

• Madelynn Gripp, CFD: Earned 1st place Overall Student Winner after securing 1st place in Floral Arrangement, 2nd place in Fashion Flowers to Wear, and 3rd place in Interpretive Floral Design. Additionally, Madelynn officially received her Certified Floral Designer (CFD) accreditation.

• Joe Taylor, CFD: Officially received his Certified Floral Designer (CFD) accreditation.

• Brianna Stewart: Won 1st place in Wedding Bouquet Design and 3rd place in Fashion Flowers to Wear.

• Daisy Machado-Sanchez: Secured 2nd place in Wedding Bouquet Design.

• Ariel Wolfe: Earned 3rd place in Wedding Bouquet Design.

Due to their exceptionally high individual scores during the competition, Ariel Wolfe, Brianna Stewart, and Daisy Machado-Sanchez have earned eligibility to test for their CFD credentials—the crucial first step toward becoming accredited members of the prestigious American Institute of Floral Designers.

The WKU Student Chapter of the American Institute of Floral Designers provides students with hands-on, industry-standard training in floral artistry, design, and agribusiness. Through competitive events, rigorous coursework, and professional mentorship, the program prepares students to lead and innovate in the global floral industry.

For information: Roger Dennis, roger.dennis@wku.edu