Jesse Hernandez, Morris Wholesale Nursery, Inc., was awarded with the Young Nursery Professional of the Year Award at the 93rd annual meeting of the California Association of Nurseries and Garden Centers (CANGC). The coveted award is presented each year to an individual under the age of 39 who demonstrates outstanding involvement in the nursery industry and community affairs.
“I have always been impressed with Jesse’s initiative to volunteer for positions in the chapter,” commented Tom Burchell, vice president of Burchell Nursery. “He takes on each new position with enthusiasm and drive.”
Hernandez has served as a production manager for Morris Wholesale Nursery for the past seven years. Previously, he worked as a production manager for Monterey Bay Nursery in Monterey, Calif.
The award winner graduated from California State University in Fresno with a bachelor’s degree in plant science. While attending the university, he was the School of Agriculture’s Student of the Year for 1990-1991.
“While I grew up in agriculture, it wasn’t until I was guided and mentored by someone in the nursery industry that I truly focused on my career,” Hernandez recalled. “This focus motivated me to earn my B.S. in plant science with an ornamental horticulture option from CSU Fresno. It has continued to push me in my current position at Morris Wholesale Nursery.
Hernandez participated in the CANGC Yosemite Chapter, serving as its president and vice president and coordinating the many educational and informational meetings held throughout the year. He is a member of the International Plant Propagator’s Society, the Modesto Garden Club and the CSU Fresno Horticulture Club. He assists with the career booth at the Nor Cal Spring Trade Show each year and participates in the Ag in the classroom program.