President's Letter: Better Together
We are better together…
As I sit down to write this message my 14-year-old boy, who looks more like a man every day, is resting next to me as he recovers from the flu. I did not have the chance to be with him all day because I had an important training session at work which I could not miss. Thankfully, my husband was able to take him to the doctor, get the medication and make sure he stayed hydrated.
Also, today in the middle of the training session, we had a situation with a customer that required my immediate attention. I called our experts and together we got to the bottom of the issue, and I was able to formulate a proper response and take action.
On November 1, I attended One Night in the Tropics at UF/TREC in Homestead, an event where industry leaders, academia and our very own FNGLA celebrated together the synergies and collaborations that elevate our industry.
You see, it is not alone that we rise, prosper, educate, care for each other, and grow. You will read below how our Chapter Leaders are eager to collaborate, get involved and make a difference. Let’s follow that example and be BETTER TOGETHER.
Florida Counties Represented by Your Chapter: Manatee, Sarasota, Desoto
President Name: Jay Perez
Number of Years as an FNGLA Volunteer: 4 + Years
Why You Choose to Serve FNGLA: I honestly fell into it because a good friend asked me to join, and my new employer was already a member. At first, I thought I’d just go through the motions, until I attended a chapter meeting. Seeing the passion of the board members and the impact they were making on behalf of our industry in the counties we represent completely changed my perspective. It made me want to be part of something bigger and contribute in a meaningful way.
Biggest Opportunity You See for the Chapter: The biggest opportunity I see for the chapter is to strengthen engagement across all member levels — from students and emerging professionals to established industry leaders. It’s especially important that we actively engage potential student members, as our industry is facing a significant generational reinforcement challenge in replenishing the ranks of qualified professionals within each specialty area. By fostering more collaboration, outreach, and education, we can build stronger community connections and ensure our chapter continues to serve as the voice and standard-bearer for the landscape and horticulture industry in our region.
Fun Fact About You: I am one of the rare Florida natives, born in Sarasota and raised in Palmetto. I graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in marketing and a minor in retail specialization.
Fun Chapter Tidbit: Our chapter’s Annual Golf Tournament takes place in late September and our Clay Shoot in early April. Be sure to join us for a great networking, and overall fun time.
Florida Counties Represented by Your Chapter: Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, and Okeechobee counties
President Name: Ian Pinder
Number of Years as an FNGLA Volunteer: This is my fourth year on the Chapter Board. I have served in the past as vice president, and as secretary for two years.
Why You Choose to Serve FNGLA: I love the people in our industry. When we are able to come together and work together for our industry, it makes a big difference. I love the networking events, and meeting new people in the industry, including those who are starting a new nursery. Building those relationships, I think, is awesome.
Biggest Opportunity You See for the Chapter: Our biggest opportunity would be reaching more of our members and getting them involved on the chapter level. I would love to see more representation of our nursery industry at our chapter events. We already have a lot of representation on the landscape side, which is great!
Fun Fact About You: I love to grow carnivorous plants, both as a hobby, and for selling.
Fun Chapter Tidbit: We host a family fun day every spring. It’s usually on a Saturday. It’s almost like a carnival day, with food and fun for kids and adults. It’s a fun day to have some food, hang out and enjoy camaraderie.
Florida Counties Represented by Your Chapter: Polk County
President Name: Lennie Hollister
Number of Years as an FNGLA Volunteer: 20 years, at least, attending Chapter meetings and getting involved.
Why You Choose to Serve FNGLA: Because it's beneficial to everyone! It's good for the people, the plants, and the business. It's a good vibe.
Biggest Opportunity You See for the Chapter: Just slow and steady growth. We're a really small chapter. We want to get new people involved and have good things happening.
Fun Fact About You: I swing dance!
Fun Chapter Tidbit: Our FFA awards at Bok Tower are coming back! It will be in the spring sometime.
Your FNGLA 2025-26 President,
Marcella Lucio-Chinchilla
Silver Vase (Homestead)
