On March 26, 2026, the Ornamental Plant Germplasm Center hosted a tour for 16 students and their faculty advisors from the Piney Woods School in Mississippi. During their visit, students learned about plant conservation and the importance of maintaining plant genetic diversity for the future of floriculture. They also explored career opportunities in plant science and horticulture and saw firsthand how plant collections are maintained and used for research, education, and breeding. Founded in 1909 by educator Dr. Laurence Clifton Jones, Piney Woods School was established to provide educational opportunities to underserved youth in rural Mississippi and continues today with a mission focused on academic achievement, vocational training, and character development.