Meet Samantha Byrd - Consumer Horticulture Program Assistant
Hi there, New Hanover County!
I am excited to introduce myself as your new N.C. Cooperative Extension Consumer Horticulture Program Assistant. My name is Samantha Byrd, and it is such a pleasure to serve this vibrant community, sharing my passion for horticulture, education, and landscaping.
My academic and professional journey has been shaped by my love of Horticulture, Agriculture, and Education. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education from The University of Mount Olive. During my studies, I spent time advocating for educational opportunities in agriculture, specifically horticulture, for my students and the public.
I am from Fayetteville, North Carolina, where I was a Horticulture Technology Instructor at Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC). During my time at FTCC, I taught a variety of horticulture classes from Plant Identification to Sales and Service. I also served as the Horticulture Club Advisor, managing the largest and most active club on campus.
In addition, I worked on many projects engaging with our local community. We worked with the City of Fayetteville, designing and planting displays in Downtown Fayetteville each Spring and Fall.
I have worked with The Cape Fear Botanical Gardens, Extension Master Gardener℠ Program of Cumberland County, and the Fayetteville Rose Society, serving as their secretary most recently, to name a few others. These roles allowed me to merge my love of education and outreach, equipping me with skills in leadership and community involvement, which I am eager to bring to this new position.
Thank you for welcoming me to this incredible program. I am excited to collaborate with you all and continue to build on the amazing work being done by Extension here in New Hanover County.
Thank you,
Samantha Byrd
Consumer Horticulture Program Assistant
New Hanover County, N.C. Cooperative Extension
Meet Aybala Yilmaz - Horticulture Technician
Hello, I am Aybala Yilmaz, your new Horticulture Technician for the New Hanover County Extension and Arboretum.
I have a background in Environmental Sciences and agricultural research, with hands-on experience in sustainability and natural areas care during my undergraduate years. Most recently, I served an AmeriCorps term with the National Park Service at Moores Creek National Battlefield in Currie, North Carolina, where I supported conservation and education efforts.
I’ve also had the opportunity to conduct blueberry research at NC State’s Horticultural Research Station, further strengthening my interest in applied plant science. I hold a master’s degree in Coastal and Ocean Policy and have a strong passion for local flora and fauna, as well as environmental education.
I’m excited to be working in horticulture at the Arboretum grounds, where I look forward to contributing, continuing to learn, and growing my skills. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two cats, doing puzzles, and reading fantasy and dystopian novels.
