2026 Paul Thomas Intern of the Year Announced

Jennifer Zurko

The 2026 Paul Thomas Floriculture Production Intern of the Year recipient is Alana Wood, a student at Kansas State University, where she’s majoring in horticulture production.

This award annually spotlights an emerging talent in horticulture and plant sciences. It recognizes exceptional internship performance through the Vic and Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship Program, administered by the American Floral Endowment (AFE).

In addition to the annual winner of the award, outstanding interns are also recognized and rewarded as honorable mentions. The 2026 honorable mentions of the award are Lemuel Dill and Parker Carlson. Lemuel is also a student at Kansas State University, majoring in horticulture production. And Parker is a student at Texas State University, where he majors in agriculture with a concentration in horticulture.

The Paul Thomas Floriculture Production Intern of the Year recipient receives paid hotel and airfare to Cultivate’26 in Columbus, Ohio, but as Alana is unable to attend the event this year, Parker will attend instead, receiving free registration for the convention provided by AmericanHort, as well as $500 spending cash courtesy of AFE’s Young Professional Council. He’ll have an opportunity for networking, tours, workshops and learning more about industry needs. During the event, Parker will also receive a photo opportunity with AFE representatives and faculty members, as well as being featured in articles in AFE publications and trade press.

Alana will receive $250 and have the opportunity to serve on the review committee for the 2027 Paul Thomas selection. Lemuel will also receive $250 for his recognition as an honorable mention. GT