President's Message

Opening Doors

It doesn’t seem possible, but 2022 is winding down. Wow! It seems like time flew by and we did not get everything accomplished that we intended, but that is okay. Anyone else feel the same? On the other hand, the VNLA is getting things done. Yes, the Virginia Certified Horticulturist (VCH) exam is now available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers. This is a major accomplishment. Now, during all twelve months of the year, folks can register for and schedule to take the VCH exam on a date and at a location that is convenient for them. This value-added change and achievement are an outcome from a tremendous effort and commitment from the VNLA’s executive director and:

Neal Beasley – Timmons Group – VNLA Board Member – VCH Certification Committee Chair

David Seward – Reynolds Community College – VNLA Board Member – VCH Certification Committee

Dr. Laurie Fox – Hampton Roads AREC – VNLA Board Member – VCH Certification Committee

The transition of the VCH exam to Pearson Testing Centers streamlines the VCH process. It opens the door for others to advance in their green-industry profession through achieving and maintaining a VNLA Virginia Certified Horticulturist credential.

The success of the VNLA’s 2022 Field Day energized the Field Day planning committee to start the process for 2023. Virginia Tech is the 2023 Field Day location and the dates are August 3 and 4, 2023. Save the dates and please mark your calendars now. More details to come…

MANTS is back and promises to be bigger and better than ever. I am certain our profession is engaged with this event and anxious to get back out and see and meet folks in person. Remember to book your hotel accommodations ONLY through the MANTS site. www.mants.com/attendees/

Finally, I want to thank all of the VNLA Board Members and those on or in charge of committees. Without your commitment to this organization and its success, the VNLA would not exist. We need more VNLA members to step up for 2023. If you have a recommendation for board members or would like to consider serving on the VNLA Board yourself, now is the time. It is a great organization with members and leaders who have a passion for this industry and know the importance of the VNLA in representing us.

Jeff Howe

VNLA President