HRI announces Spring Meadow Scholarship recipients

WASHINGTON, DC and COLUMBUS, OH — Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), the research arm of AmericanHort, is pleased to announce the names of the three recipients of the 2017 Spring Meadow – Proven Winners Endowment Fund Scholarship. Each student received $3000 in scholarship funding to achieve their educational goals.

This year’s winners are Brandon Miller, a graduate student at Iowa State University, working toward his master’s degree in horticulture; Justin Schulze, a student at Oregon State University, working toward a graduate degree in ornamental plant breeding; and Nicholas Robinson, an undergraduate student at the University of Connecticut majoring in horticulture. These students were chosen from a competitive national applicant pool for their academic prowess, exemplary leadership abilities, and commitment to pursuing careers in horticulture.

Dale & Liz Deppe, who established the Spring Meadow – Proven Winners Endowment Fund within HRI in 1999, believe that bright, well-trained and qualified people are essential to the green industry. In addition to scholarships, the Spring Meadow – Proven Winners Endowment Fund supports horticultural research. So far, their fund has provided $140,000 for scholarships and research since 1999.

“Our team has been blessed by this industry and the mentors who’ve helped us along the way," said Deppe. "That’s why we are pleased to award these scholarships. They are a core part of our personal desire to encourage emerging professionals. It’s gratifying to support these particular students in such a direct way.”

The Horticultural Research Institute helps students obtain the education necessary to successfully pursue horticultural careers. Scholarships like those provided through the Spring Meadow – Proven Winners Endowment Fund are being awarded at a time when the College Board estimates the average cost of tuition and fees for private colleges to be $33,000 a year and $9,500 at public colleges. Backing motivated students today plays a vital role in protecting and growing the industry tomorrow.

Companies or individuals who are interested in establishing a scholarship or research legacy are encouraged to contact Jennifer Gray, HRI Administrator, at (614) 884-1155 for details.