Presidents Award

Recognizing Exceptional Leadership and Service

The President’s Award is a distinguished honor presented by the current President of the Kentucky Florists’ Association. This award recognizes an individual or organization that has shown outstanding dedication, leadership, and service to KFA and the Kentucky floral industry.

Unlike competitive awards, the President’s Award is selected at the discretion of the sitting President and reflects personal recognition of meaningful contributions that strengthen the association and support its mission.

What This Award Honors

Recipients of the President’s Award exemplify:

  • Commitment to the growth and success of KFA

  • Leadership within the floral industry

  • Service that supports education, community, or professional advancement

  • A spirit of generosity and involvement that uplifts others

Presentation

The President’s Award is presented during the KFA Annual Convention, alongside other association honors and recognitions.

Each award reflects the values of KFA and the leadership vision of the current President.

2025 President’s Award Honorees

At the 2025 KFA Annual Convention, President Dave Campbell, KMF, presented the President’s Award to two individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Kentucky floral community.

Two men dressed in black and white musical note themed suits standing in front of a flower arrangement, smiling at the camera. One man is holding a small potted flower, and the background features a wall with decorative muscial notes and lines.

Michael Gaddie AIFD, CFD, KMF
Lloyd’s Florist & Events – Louisville, KY
Director of Education | Co-Conference Director

Michael was recognized for his commitment to education and his leadership in developing meaningful learning opportunities for KFA members. Through his work as Director of Education and Co-Conference Director, he has played a key role in strengthening programs that support florists across the state.

Bobby G. Eldridge, AIFD, CFD, KMF
Prestigious Affairs – Seymour, IN
Co-Conference Director

Bobby was honored for his dedication, creativity, and leadership in helping shape the KFA Annual Convention experience. His contributions as Co-Conference Director have helped bring education, inspiration, and connection to the floral community.

A man and woman standing together on stage at an awards ceremony, holding a plaque and smiling. The man wears a black tuxedo with a bow tie and glasses, and the woman wears a burgundy lace dress with floral corsages.

Gayle Willoughby
Ashland Florist – Lexington, KY
KFA Board Member | Association Parliamentarian

Gayle was recognized for her longstanding dedication and service to the Kentucky Florists’ Association and the floral industry. From volunteering at conventions during her college years to serving on committees including registration, design room, Gala décor, and program design, she has been a consistent and valued contributor.

A co-founder of Ashland Florist in 1985 alongside her sisters and mother, Gayle helped build a lasting business in Lexington, continuing its operation until her retirement in 2022. Her leadership as a board member, most recently as Association Parliamentarian, reflects her commitment to supporting and strengthening the organization.

The Kentucky Florists’ Association is proud to recognize these individuals for their service, leadership, and continued commitment to helping our industry learn, grow, and bloom.