COLUMBUS, OH – (November 12, 2024) The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI) announces the opening of the HRI Leadership Academy Class of 2026 application window. This one-year leadership program is designed to develop the skills green industry leaders need to perform better, grow faster, and prepare for the future.

“As we enter the fourth year of the HRI Leadership Academy, this program is driving the development of the next generation of leaders in the green industry. Our commitment is to empower passionate, dedicated individuals ready to lead the future of horticulture, and we can’t wait to welcome those who want to make a lasting impact,” said Leigh Geschwill, HRI Board President.



The HRI Leadership Academy offers horticulture leaders a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, broaden their horticultural knowledge, and connect with professionals across the industry. The academy is designed to give participants a comprehensive approach to leadership development through in-person training sessions and online classes and meetings.

Applications will be evaluated on demonstrated leadership qualities, past evidence of or estimated future potential for contribution to the green industry, ability to consider the broader interests of the community, the applicant’s character and ability to grow because of this experience, and personal and employer commitment to the program. Preference will be given to candidates with at least five years of leadership experience and seven years of relevant industry work experience.

“The HRI Leadership Academy is a critical investment in shaping our industry’s future. Graduates of the academy develop enhanced leadership skills to grow their companies, drive innovation, and strengthen the entire industry,” said Ken Fisher, AmericanHort President and CEO. “By cultivating leaders who are equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow, we are ensuring the long-term success of individual businesses, our communities, and the industry as a whole.”

Application Timeline: 

• Application Window: Open now until February 7, 2025 
• Interviews: March and April 2025
• Class Selection and Notification: May 2025 
• Class Announcement: Cultivate'25, July 12-15, 2025, in Columbus, OH 

There is no fee to apply and AmericanHort covers program tuition. Applications should be submitted through the HRI Leadership Academy website during the application window. All applicants will be considered, and successful candidates will be chosen based on their commitment to the industry, leadership potential, and potential to contribute to the horticultural community. 

For more information about the HRI Leadership Academy and to download a program brochure, please visit HRILeadershipAcademy.org. 

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About the Horticultural Research Institute (HRI)

The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), founded in 1962, has provided more than $9.5 million in funds to research projects covering a broad range of production, environmental, and business issues important to the green industry. Over $19 million is committed to the endowment by individuals, corporations, and associations. For more information about HRI, its grant-funded research, or programming, visit For more information about the HRI Leadership Academy and to download a program brochure, please visit HRILeadershipAcademy.org. 

About AmericanHort 

Green industry businesses perform better, grow faster, and prepare for the future as a member of AmericanHort, the green industry’s leading association. With a rich history of serving horticultural professionals, AmericanHort supports 20,000 members and affiliated businesses that include breeders, greenhouse and nursery growers, garden retailers, distributors, interior and exterior landscape professionals, florists, students, educators, researchers, manufacturers, and all of those who are part of the industry market chain. The horticulture industry's production, wholesale, retail, and landscape service components have annual sales of $346 billion, and sustain over 2.3 million full- and part-time jobs. AmericanHort works to impact the growth, performance, and successful future for the industry through advocacy, research, education, and advancing industry standards.