Discover how this local legend has spent 47 years growing NJ’s landscape industry
photos courtresy of BCC
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Paramus NJ, In the world of horticulture, few names carry as much weight—or as much history—as Dr. Steven Fischer.
To cap off a landmark 2025, the longtime Bergen Community College horticulture professor and program coordinator was officially named Educator of the Year by the New Jersey Landscape Contractors Association (NJLCA). The award recognizes Fischer’s nearly five decades of dedication to cultivating the next generation of New Jersey’s “green industry” professionals.
A Legacy Rooted in Excellence
Dr. Fischer’s journey at Bergen began in 1977, when he was recruited by the program’s founder, Jacob “Jack” Fisher. Despite the similar names, they weren’t related—but they quickly became known as the “Fischer Brothers” of the department, building a curriculum that balances the art, science, and business of plants.
For Fischer, the award isn’t just a personal milestone; it’s a validation of the work his students put in every day in the Ender Hall Greenhouse.
“It’s an honor,” Fischer said. “The award says there is a credibility that our horticulture students have attained.”
Hands-On Training: Beyond the Classroom
At Bergen, Dr. Fischer is famous for his “boots-on-the-ground” teaching style. Whether he’s checking soil acidity or demonstrating complex pruning techniques, he ensures his students aren’t just reading textbooks—they’re growing a career.
Bridging the Gap Between School and Industry
Fischer has turned the NJLCA into a vital bridge for his students. Through his leadership:
-
Trade Show Access: Students attend major NJLCA trade shows to see the latest in irrigation tech, seed innovation, and sustainable landscaping.
-
Expert Insight: Fischer himself is a frequent guest speaker at these events, sharing his expertise on plant selection for New Jersey’s unique climate.
-
Career Networking: Many of Bergen’s alumni are now leading contractors and business owners within the NJLCA community.
50 Years of Growth
The Educator of the Year award coincided with a major milestone for the college: the 50th Anniversary of Bergen’s Horticulture Program.
The October 2025 celebration was a true “who’s who” of New Jersey agriculture, featuring:
-
Keynote Speaker: New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Ed Wengryn.
-
Living History: Alumni from the very first graduating class (1975) returned to tour the updated facilities.
-
A Growing Future: Dr. Fischer unveiled a new tribute garden behind Ender Hall, dedicated to environmental pioneer Rachel Carson.
About Bergen Community College Horticulture
Located in the heart of Paramus, Bergen’s horticulture program offers specialized certificates and associate degrees in:
-
Floral Design
-
Grounds Management
-
Ornamental Horticulture
With more graduates than any other community college in the state, Bergen remains the “root system” for New Jersey’s $800 million landscape industry.
Tell your story #TheRidgewoodblog , #Indpendentnews, #information, #advertise, #guestpost, #affiliatemarketing,#NorthJersey, #NJ , #News, #localnews, #bergencounty, #sponsoredpost, #SponsoredContent, #contentplacement , #linkplacement, Email: [email protected]
