American Floral Endowment announces new trustees, committee chairs

The American Floral Endowment welcomed two new trustees to its Board of Trustees, effective Sept. 1, 2025.

"These accomplished industry leaders bring valuable expertise, fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to supporting the future of floriculture," AFE said in a statement. "Their involvement will help guide AFE’s strategic direction and enhance the impact of its funding and programs across all segments of the industry."

AFE is also recognized its new committee chair appointments and outgoing trustees.

"AFE trustees generously volunteer their time and expertise, serving a three-year term with the option to renew for an additional term. They actively participate in all AFE meetings and events, covering their own travel expenses," AFE said. "AFE looks forward to the leadership and insight these new trustees will bring and extend its sincere thanks to the outgoing trustees for their dedicated service."

Meet each of them below, with descriptions courtesy of AFE:

Incoming American Floral Endowment trustees

Kristin Gilliland is the third-generation owner and president of Gardens America Inc., an importer and distributor of fresh and dried flowers. With over 30 years of experience in the floral industry, Gilliland combines a rich family legacy with a passion for excellence and innovation.

Growing up in the family business, Gilliland gained hands-on experience from an early age. She officially joined full-time in 1994 and worked in various roles, including office management, accounting and general operations, before taking the helm. A graduate of Florida International University in international business relations, Gilliland also worked with Armellini Express Lines.

Gilliland previously served on the SAF Wholesale Council and currently serves on the SAF Convention Committee Task Force. She is passionate about promoting the benefits of flowers in everyday life and was an early supporter of That Flower Feeling. She also previously served as the chairperson of the Young Executive Council of WFFSA. She will serve on the Public Relations/Development and Floral Marketing Fund Committees.

Kevin Prill is the category manager of floral at The GIANT Company, a grocer that has been serving families across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia since 1923. ​With over 40 years of retail experience, Prill has worked in many areas of a grocery store, including more than 35 years in the floral department. His career began with First National Supermarkets, and in the decades that followed, he held various roles at Edwards, Ahold USA, Stop and Shop and A&P before arriving at The GIANT Company in 2014.

At The GIANT Company, Prill and his team oversee all aspects of purchasing, merchandising and team member training for cut flowers, bouquets, plants, balloons, hard goods and outdoor gardens across the company’s more than 190 stores. Prill organizes The GIANT Company’s annual Floral Seminar, bringing together more than 200 floral team members for a day of professional development centered around industry trends, best practices, recognition and preparing for the upcoming holiday season.

Prill currently serves on the Floral Council of the International Fresh Produce Association and previously served on the board for Floriexpo. He will also serve on the Public Relations/Development and Floral Marketing Fund Committees.

New committee chairs

Current AFE Trustee Kevin McCarthy has been appointed co-chair of the Public Relations/Development Committee, serving alongside David Garcia, AFE board chair. McCarthy joined the Board of Trustees in 2024, bringing his industry knowledge and extensive experience in business growth and leadership. He is the president and CEO of Family Flowers, a fourth-generation family-owned company with more than 30 flower shops across 10 states.

Under his leadership, the company has expanded significantly through strategic acquisitions and a focus on operational excellence. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in consumer economics, McCarthy is also an active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization. He is passionate about industry education and fostering a love for floriculture among future generations.

Current AFE Trustee Vijay Rapaka was appointed as the new chair of the Research Committee in March, replacing Bill Foster, who is currently serving as the Endowment’s board treasurer/secretary. Rapaka joined the Board of Trustees in 2023, bringing his expertise in research and innovation, along with more than 20 years of experience in the floriculture industry.

Rapaka is currently the director of global grower operations and research for Oasis Grower Solutions, a division of Smithers-Oasis Company. He received his Ph.D. in ornamental Horticulture from the University of Hanover, Germany.

Outgoing officers and trustees completing their term on the AFE board this year are Jackie Lacey and Greg Royer. AFE recognized and thanked both for their leadership, time and dedication.

Jackie Lacey of ByJRL joined the AFE board in 2022, bringing his extensive industry experience in floral design, shop operations, brand recognition and building, retail operations and best practices, public speaking, and education. Lacey was a member of the Public Relations/Development and Floral Marketing Fund Committees. He presented at many industry events for AFE, the Floral Marketing Fund, and Sustainabloom, sharing key research findings and resources with the floral community. In addition, Jackie has presented to AFE's Young Professionals Council, providing tips and resources for giving industry presentations.

Greg Royer of Royer's Flowers and Gifts has served in many capacities with AFE, giving back his time, talent and expertise. He was appointed to the board in 2015 and also served on the Education Committee and Public Relations/Development Committee. Royer became the Education Committee chair in 2017, and in 2021, he was appointed as treasurer and Investment Committee chair, serving for three years. In 2024, he served as an emeritus trustee, providing guidance and oversight.

The Royer Family has a long history of giving and involvement with AFE. In 2024, the Ken and Jean Royer Family Fund was established with an estate gift from Ken Royer, past chair of AFE. Greg and his wife, Amy, contributed a generous matching gift to the fund, helping to double the support for this new retail florists’ continued education fund.

"AFE is incredibly appreciative of the commitment of the outgoing trustees and looks forward to working with the new trustees as the Endowment continues to provide funding to support research, internships, scholarships, and education for all," AFE said.

A complete list of the AFE Board of Trustees can be found here.