Dr Kelly Ablard

Kelly Ablard, PhD, is a certified Conservation Aromatherapist™ with advanced degrees in Biology and Conservation. As Founder and CEO of the nonprofit Airmid Institute

"Vanilla planifolia: The Fragility of a Medicinal and Aromatic Plant at the Crossroads of Conservation and Cultivation"
Vanilla planifolia, a medicinal and aromatic plant of great global significance, exhibits extreme genetic uniformity making it vulnerable to habitat loss, pests, viruses, extreme climatic events, and market volatility. Although cultivated populations are abundant, their fragility in this respect requires nuanced and sustainable management. This includes the integration of virus-free rootstock, disease monitoring, and the protection of natural pollinators and wild V. planifolia populations, which are listed as endangered, and are protected by CITES. Case studies examining these vulnerabilities are increasing, particularly in Florida, Madagascar, and Mexico. Equally important is strengthening the global supply chain through transparency, traceability, value-added approaches, and strong relationships with V. planifolia farmers. At this critical crossroads of conservation and cultivation, the future of V. planifolia relies on informed stewardship and sustainable practices to safeguard this precious medicinal and aromatic plant species for generations to come. 

Stephanie Webb CA

Symposium Host, Botanical Formulator & International Sourcing Agent

“Learn about how The American Vanilla Association can support you" 
Stephanie Webb will present the details of our American Vanilla Association. The newly formed Association is dedicated to strengthening and uniting our community. By bringing farmers together, the association provides a strong collective voice, access to shared resources, education, and advocacy on key industry issues. Members will benefit from networking opportunities, training programs, market support, and representation that helps protect their interests and improve long-term sustainability. Through collaboration and shared knowledge, the association is committed to supporting American vanilla farmers.

Twyla Leigh

"Growing Vanilla Orchids: Tips and  Tricks" 

Twyla served as the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County Director and worked closely with the University of Florida Scientists and Cooperative Extension Agents who share her passion in Vanilla Orchids and the opportunities of this expanding agricultural crop and vanilla bean production. Twyla was involved in vanilla orchid grants, publications, educational programs, and was instrumental in the concept and development of Vanilla Village located at the UF/IFAS Extension Collier County Demonstration Gardens in Naples. Through her work as UF/IFAS Extension Collier County Director, Twyla organized and facilitated a Ghost Orchid Symposium featuring local, national, and international experts to share with the public ongoing research and increase awareness of the endangered, endemic Florida Ghost Orchid (Dendrophyllax lindenii) of Collier County swamps. Her interest in orchid conservation locally and internationally has taken her to France and Thailand to participate in orchid conservation programs.