Word is a native of Guntersville, Ala., and is an alumnus of Auburn University. Throughout high school and college, he operated a landscape company of his own in Guntersville.  After graduation from Auburn, Word became landscape installation supervisor of Blackjack Horticulture. He quickly moved up in the company and is now the owner.

He has expanded his business into the Auburn area, being involved in many projects including work at the President’s home on the Auburn University campus. He has also managed many high-profile projects in the Birmingham area, including: UAB University Hospital, the Women and Infants Center, Dawson Baptist Church and Trinity United Methodist Church, among others.

Along with owning a business, Word is a deacon and leader in his church. He serves in many areas, including planning and operating a Christian retreat for youth that attracts as many as 1200 young people.

The Horizon award is presented annually to an outstanding member of ALNLA. Eligible recipients are progressive and innovative horticulturists who are under the age of 36 or have worked in the green industry for eight years or less.

Congratulations to Mr. Word.