Michelle Van Norden named new manager of development and donor engagement at American Floral Endowment

Michelle Van Norden has been named the new manager of development and donor engagement at the American Floral Endowment (AFE).

AFE has been providing programs, resources and support for the floriculture industry for more than 60 years. which has been possible only with the support of donors.

Van Norden's position will continue to enhance AFE’s connections to donors and further develop relationships with stakeholders. She'll promote AFE’s many ways to give, such as named funds, legacy gifts, recurring donations and designated donations.

As AFE's community of donors grows, AFE will be able to further expand its core programs: scholarships, internships, educational grants and scientific research.

Van Norden, who lives on the West Side of Baton Rouge in Louisiana with her husband and daughter, brings more than a decade of experience in crafting and executing impactful fundraising strategies, consistently surpassing annual targets and securing grants and major gifts.

Van Norden also brings experience securing impactful government grant funding that could provide new opportunities for AFE’s programs to expand.

“With a passion for fundraising and eager to dive into the world of floriculture, I am excited to join the AFE team,” says Michelle. “Just as every petal contributes to the beauty of a flower, every donation fuels the growth of impactful initiatives. I look forward to nurturing relationships, cultivating support and witnessing the profound impact we can make together.”

Van Norden holds a bachelor’s degree in health and human performance with a minor in exercise physiology. Her skills include managing teams, operating franchises and building relationships.

“We are delighted to have Michelle join the AFE team,” said AFE Executive Director Debi Chedester. “Her fundraising expertise, combined with her enthusiasm to learn more about the floral industry, will be instrumental in advancing our mission. We are confident that Michelle will play a key role in cultivating new relationships and securing the resources needed to continue supporting the future of floriculture.”