Horticulture major one of six HortScholars in the nation

Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Jaclyn Nelson

Jaclyn Nelson

University of Nebraska–Lincoln horticulture major, Jaclyn Nelson, was chosen for the AmericanHort HortScholars program this year. One of six students in the nation, Nelson spent seven days on-site at Cultivate‘16 this summer in Columbus, Ohio. This is the horticulture industry's largest, all-industry event in North America which takes place annually.

Each HortScholar was given the opportunity to speak at Cultivate‘16 on various topics including floriculture production, hydroponics and pollinators. Nelson gave a talk on company culture. Each received complimentary meals, lodging, an all-access pass to Cultivate‘16 and a complimentary one-year student membership with AmericanHort. They also met with industry professionals, attended educational sessions and networked.

“My eyes were opened to the opportunities and needs in the horticulture industry. The reality is—you don’t have to be a plant nerd to be in the industry—horticulture needs engineers, mechanics and many other occupations too,” Nelson said.

The HortScholars program is open to undergraduate and graduate students attending two- and four-year colleges and universities. It offers a beyond-the-classroom experience, giving insight and awareness of the industry, its supply chain and an opportunity for students to find a home for their passion.

Jaclyn Nelson

HortScholars at Cultivate‘16 include (left to right) Sayde Heckman – University of Missouri, Kellie Walters – Michigan State University, Lindsay Daschner – Michigan State University, Robert Brockman – University of Kentucky, Nathan Jahnke – North Carolina State University and Jaclyn Nelson – University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Nelson urges other students to apply. “It isn’t every day you have the chance to have lunch with horticulture celebrities or work on a team with some of the best and brightest horticulture students in the nation.”

The Nebraska senior is also involved with the UNL Horticulture Club and serves as vice president for Pi Alpha Xi, Alpha-Gamma Chapter—the National Honor Society for Horticulture. She is advised by David Lambe, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture associate professor of practice.

The HortScholars program is offered by AmericanHort which began in 2014 with the consolidation of the American Nursery & Landscape Association and The Association of Horticultural Professionals.

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