The MU Student American Institute of Floral Designers (SAIFD) Chapter placed 2nd in the nation in the student competition during the American Institute of Floral Designers National Symposium in Orlando, July 2-6.

Four students, Emma Baepler (sophomore, agricultural education), Marta Cunningham (senior, hospitality management), Beth Joffe (junior, plant sciences), and Korrin Zerr (senior, agriculture), competed individually, and their scores were combined to determine the team placing. Students are told the design categories the evening before the competition and receive a surprise package of fresh products and hard goods upon arrival the next morning. The students then have four hours to complete four designs. Each student is evaluated based on the elements and principles of floral design.

Individual placings are as follows:

• Emma Baepler:
  • 1st place Overall Student
  • 3rd Fashion Flowers
• Beth Joffe
  • 5th Fashion Flowers
  • 8th Flowers to Carry
  • 8th Overall Student
• Korrin Zerr
  • 2nd Fashion Flowers
  • 2nd Flowers to Carry

Students interested in learning more about floral design and SAIFD should contact Lesleighan Kraft Cravens.