People News
Clemente Receives Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award
Society member Tom Elmo Clemente, a professor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, has been honored with the Larry Tonniges Research Achievement Award for his groundbreaking contributions to soybean research. The award, which was made possible by the family of the late Larry Tonniges, a longtime Nebraska farmer who was dedicated to production research as part of the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB), honors researchers who have made significant contributions to soybean research for NSB.
Clemente has pioneered innovative research initiatives aimed at enhancing plant germplasm and incorporating genetic engineering to fortify crops against diseases and enhance value‐added traits. His research spans across various crops including soybeans, wheat, maize, and sorghum, showcasing his versatility and commitment to addressing pressing agricultural challenges.
Clemente has been instrumental in identifying a gene crucial for conferring resistance to the herbicide dicamba in broadleaf crops. This discovery has paved the way for the development of dicamba‐resistant crops and has sparked further exploration into novel applications of this technology. Additionally, Clemente has spearheaded projects funded by NSB that are aimed at enhancing soybean germplasm through biotechnology, increasing oil content, improving disease resistance, and exploring the integration of soybeans into fish diets.
Bernardo Receives University of Minnesota Graduate and Professional Teaching Award
The University of Minnesota recognized professor and Society member Rex Bernardo for his commitment to quality education with a Graduate and Professional Teaching Award. Bernardo has taught graduate courses in plant breeding, professional skills for scientists, and scientific writing. He has advised 26 M.S. and Ph.D. students who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry. He wrote two textbooks that have become standards in plant breeding courses worldwide, developed software for the gamification of plant‐breeding knowledge, and organized short courses and workshops for the professional development of graduate students and continuing education of plant scientists. With the award, Bernardo is inducted into the Academy of Distinguished Teachers and will carry the designation of Distinguished University Teaching Professor throughout his career at the University of Minnesota.
Clark Honored with Brady J. Deaton Fellow in International Agriculture Award
Society member Kerry Clark, an assistant research professor and Director of the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) International Programs at the University of Missouri, received the Brady J. Deaton Fellow in International Agriculture Award.
Clark leads faculty in developing international research and education collaborations and seeking opportunities to contribute to global food security and poverty reduction. By doing this, she aims to improve global citizenship within the entire university community. Her leadership was recently recognized by ASA, who honored her with the Emerging Leader for African Agricultural Transformation Award in 2022.
Clark is also involved in improving the experiences of international students studying at the University of Missouri. In 2020, she founded CAFNR International Student Engagement, which helps international students acclimate to the University and life in the United States. In just four years, this group has swelled to 650 members.
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