Tom Ranney received the Innovator of the Year award for his work in plant breeding and new-crop development. Ranney, a horticultural science expert and the JC Raulston Distinguished Professor, is recognized as one of the most accomplished ornamental plant breeders in the world. Ranney has 44 active plant patents, with four more currently pending.
Licensed by some of the world’s largest international horticultural companies, Ranney’s plants are sold across the globe and have generated over $100 million in retail sales. Many are in early stages, with sales expected to increase considerably over time. His most significant commercial successes — Invincibelle and Incrediball hydrangeas — have already sold over 1.6 million units to date. These successes have drawn in a range of recognition and public and private investment for our university…Complete article here by Matt Simpson, Oct. 8, 2019.