MSU program celebrates anniversary

STARKVILLE — The center of Mississippi State University’s (MSU) floral management academic program will celebrate its 75th anniversary Oct. 30 with several special public activities.

The University Florist’s milestone recognition will feature a 10 a.m. program led by university professor emeritus Ralph Null of Columbus. Null, retired director of MSU’s hands-on teaching laboratory and professional flower shop, is an award-winning and internationally recognized authority in the floral arts and retail floriculture.

“Capturing the Spirit: Innovations and Expressions with Plant Materials” will be the topic of his 90-minute presentation in the Chapel of Memories.

Offered through the department of plant and soil sciences, MSU’s floral management program was established to help meet the needs of America-s multi-billion-dollar retail floristry industry. The four-year program is the only one of its kind in the Southeast, according to the university.

An open house will be held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the laboratory-business’ Lee Boulevard location.

Throughout the day, business manager and floral design instructor Lynette McDougald, who, like Null is a member of the American Institute of Floral Designers, will be sharing with customers and visitors her ideas for eco-friendly winter home decorations.

For more information, call McDougald at (662) 325-3585.