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Hats off to the 2013 AGNR Grads!
Four years ago, Jason Chun Yu Wong left his home in Hong Kong to become a freshman at the University of Maryland.
“I could not have imagined then what I would be able to do here as a Terp,” Jason said Monday, May 20, while addressing his fellow graduates from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR).
Jason graduated with honors receiving a double degree in Environmental Science and Policy and Germanic Studies with a minor in statistics. He joins a diverse and talented crop of students who make up the Class of 2013.
During Spring Commencement inside the Reckord Armory on the University of Maryland campus, the College of AGNR awarded:
*230+ bachelor’s degrees
*30+ master’s degrees
*15+ doctoral degrees
*15+ IAA certifications (two-year program)
This spring’s class is one of the largest to graduate from the College of AGNR and encompasses students interested in everything from solving world hunger and securing the global food supply, to preserving endangered species, protecting the Chesapeake Bay and promoting our state’s natural resources.
“Our College is like an ecosystem,” said Environmental Science and Technology major Isabel Enerson, during her graduation speech. “Just like in an ecosystem, we each have vital roles to play.”
Like many AGNR students, both Isabel and Jason had the opportunity to study abroad while working toward their degrees at UMD. Isabel plans to move to Sweden in August to continue sustainability projects she worked on while studying abroad there in the spring of 2012. Jason, meanwhile, spent his final semester as a Terp studying in Germany and plans to pursue a PhD in sustainable development from Columbia University. “The great thing about being an AGNR major is that our work always extends to our communities,” said Jason. “We are unstoppable not just here in Maryland but unstoppable around the world.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2013! Check out more photos from the AGNR Commencement here.
Click here to read more about some of AGNR’s outstanding 2013 graduates.
Tags: GraduationStudentsAGNRGraduation 2013
The annual IAA pre-graduation reception held at the University Golf Course Club House May 20th was a family affair in more ways than one. Nearly 100 proud moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles and even five-day-old Duke Walsh--son of graduate Michael Walsh--were on hand to honor the 15 graduates.
“Creating a sense of family and community among students and staff is also what the IAA is all about,” said longtime faculty member Dr, Kevin Mathias during his pre-graduation remarks. That same sentiment was echoed by Dr. Cheng-i- Wei, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, “Even though the IAA has grown in numbers over the years it has been able to maintain a close knit atmosphere where students, faculty and alumni realize the importance of networking when it comes to employment after graduation.”
Cody Cashman, Scott Hosier and Michael Walsh represented their classmates by providing remarks. Cashman drew a laugh from the crowd when he praised IAA Director Glori Hyman, “At first we students thought she was going to be real strict, but in time we discovered she was always there for us.” Walsh, named IAA’s outstanding student of the year, applauded Business Services specialist Carole Dingess for her never ending persistence, “She was the one who actually got me through the program. Whenever I’d be there studying, she would come by and put scholarship applications in front of me. She made certain I filled out every form because Carole’s the one who mailed them all for me.” Hosier took the opportunity to single out instructor Roy Walls whom he called Mr. Everything, “From computers to welding to woodworking Roy was the man to turn to.”
Following the program there were lots of handshakes, hugs and posing for pictures. Then the graduates and their guests proceeded to the University Armory, for the graduation ceremony to officially honor the 2013 Class of the Institute of Applied Agriculture .
iaaAGNRgraduation2013Related Photos: Graduation 2013Graduation 2013
The annual IAA pre-graduation reception held at the University Golf Course Club House May 20th was a family affair in more ways than one. Nearly 100 proud moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles and even five-day-old Duke Walsh--son of graduate Michael Walsh--were on hand to honor the 15 graduates.
“Creating a sense of family and community among students and staff is also what the IAA is all about,” said longtime faculty member Dr, Kevin Mathias during his pre-graduation remarks. That same sentiment was echoed by Dr. Cheng-i- Wei, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, “Even though the IAA has grown in numbers over the years it has been able to maintain a close knit atmosphere where students, faculty and alumni realize the importance of networking when it comes to employment after graduation.”
Cody Cashman, Scott Hosier and Michael Walsh represented their classmates by providing remarks. Cashman drew a laugh from the crowd when he praised IAA Director Glori Hyman, “At first we students thought she was going to be real strict, but in time we discovered she was always there for us.” Walsh, named IAA’s outstanding student of the year, applauded Business Services specialist Carole Dingess for her never ending persistence, “She was the one who actually got me through the program. Whenever I’d be there studying, she would come by and put scholarship applications in front of me. She made certain I filled out every form because Carole’s the one who mailed them all for me.” Hosier took the opportunity to single out instructor Roy Walls whom he called Mr. Everything, “From computers to welding to woodworking Roy was the man to turn to.”
Following the program there were lots of handshakes, hugs and posing for pictures. Then the graduates and their guests proceeded to the University Armory, for the graduation ceremony to officially honor the 2013 Class of the Institute of Applied Agriculture .
iaaAGNRgraduation2013Related Photos: Graduation 2013LaTassa Presents at Conference
The Institute of Applied Agriculture promotes hands on learning with all kinds of labs—insects, plants, and ag mechanics. Could a speech lab be next?
IAA Oral Communication Lecturer Nina LaTassa presented a paper at the 12th Annual Excellence at the Center Conference: Reflect, Rejoice and Remix. Held April 19-20 at the University of North Carolina's Greensboro campus, the conference was jointly hosted by the University and the National Association of Communication Centers to facilitate the exchange ideas about campus practice laboratories to help students improve their communication skills.
LaTassa’s paper, “The Communication Center for the Two-Year Student: Challenges and Choices” was enthusiastically received and instigated some lively conversation. In addition, LaTassa says the conference presented an amazing array of collegiate communication center models, case studies, and organizational schemes that she hopes can one day be implemented at the IAA.
LaTassa believes many of the ideas “could easily be integrated into IAA’s planning for a communication center in Jull Hall.” She explained that the panels, workshops, and speakers dug deep into the fundamental issues of managing communication centers, incorporating new technologies, arranging space, and controlling the quality. LaTassa noted that, like the University of Maryland, other schools have added an oral communication requirement for incoming students, thus increasing the demand for speech centers.
LaTassa says the conference can be summed up nicely by one of the session titles, “Tasty Tapas: An Array of Delicious Ideas for the Center.” She hopes to eventually take those tasty ideas and turn them into a full menu of opportunities at an IAA Speech Center.
LaTassaIAA, Oral Communications, Faculty, StudentsLaTassa Presents at Conference
The Institute of Applied Agriculture promotes hands on learning with all kinds of labs—insects, plants, and ag mechanics. Could a speech lab be next?
IAA Oral Communication Lecturer Nina LaTassa presented a paper at the 12th Annual Excellence at the Center Conference: Reflect, Rejoice and Remix. Held April 19-20 at the University of North Carolina's Greensboro campus, the conference was jointly hosted by the University and the National Association of Communication Centers to facilitate the exchange ideas about campus practice laboratories to help students improve their communication skills.
LaTassa’s paper, “The Communication Center for the Two-Year Student: Challenges and Choices” was enthusiastically received and instigated some lively conversation. In addition, LaTassa says the conference presented an amazing array of collegiate communication center models, case studies, and organizational schemes that she hopes can one day be implemented at the IAA.
LaTassa believes many of the ideas “could easily be integrated into IAA’s planning for a communication center in Jull Hall.” She explained that the panels, workshops, and speakers dug deep into the fundamental issues of managing communication centers, incorporating new technologies, arranging space, and controlling the quality. LaTassa noted that, like the University of Maryland, other schools have added an oral communication requirement for incoming students, thus increasing the demand for speech centers.
LaTassa says the conference can be summed up nicely by one of the session titles, “Tasty Tapas: An Array of Delicious Ideas for the Center.” She hopes to eventually take those tasty ideas and turn them into a full menu of opportunities at an IAA Speech Center.
LaTassaIAA, Oral Communications, Faculty, StudentsSpring 2013 Commencement Approaches
The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) is excited to celebrate the diverse and talented crop of students who make up the Class of 2013! A ceremony will take place at 12:00 p.m. at the Reckord Amory during which the College of AGNR will award:
*230+ bachelor’s degrees
*30+ master’s degrees
*15+ doctoral degrees
*15+ IAA certifications (two-year program)
This spring’s class is one of the largest to graduate from the College of AGNR and encompasses students interested in everything from solving world hunger and securing the global food supply, to preserving endangered species, protecting the Chesapeake Bay and promoting our state’s natural resources. The following four seniors exemplify the impressive pool of graduates coming out of the College this year:
Jason Chun Yu Wong
Major: Environmental Science and Policy: Environmental Economics; Germanic Studies (double degree) Hometown: Hong KongGPA: 4.00
Post-Graduation Plans: Ph.D. Program (Sustainable Development), Columbia University
Favorite Experience at UMD: Serving as a teaching assistant for AREC200; Peer mentoring and working with Tim, Angela, and Beth; Running a Maryland Day booth
Accomplishment He is Most Proud of at UMD: Getting to learn economics, environmental science and German all at once!; (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Scholar; (DAAD) German Academic Exchange Service Undergraduate Scholar; Undergraduate Research at Dept. of Agricultural and Resource Economics
Other Activities/Interests: Odyssey of the Mind! A creative minds competition for all ages. I translate/interpret for teams from Hong Kong and China and judge spontaneous problems as well. Isabel Enerson
Major: ENST (Ecological Technical Design) Minor: Soil Science Hometown: Columbia,MD GPA: 3.5 Post-Graduation Plans: Over the summer Isabel plans to continue working on the complete mix forage radish co-digestion project with Dr.Lansing's lab before moving to Sweden in August to continue sustainability projects she started while studying abroad in the spring of 2012. Favorite Experience at UMD: Either repotting wetland plants for WaterShed at 1am in the campus greenhouse, or the crazy escapades of the UMD soil judging team. In both cases soils and all that grows, filters, and lives within them enthuse me! Accomplishment She Is Most Proud of at UMD: Designing, building, and educating the public about WaterShed, UMD's winning 2011 DOE Solar Decathlon entry. This 18 month journey was consuming, unforgettable, educational, and empowering. My teammates and mentors left an indelible mark on my perspective on and opinions about life, design and sustainability. Check us out at 2011.solarteam.org! Other Activities/Interests: Connecting urban environments with their ecological contexts (green bulkheads capstone, ESJ environmental management concept design, WaterShed), environmental education (Washington Youth Garden volunteer, SERC, UppsalaAquaponics, UMD OS sustainability advisor), waste as a resource (anaerobic digestion, treatment wetlands, passive heating, living machines) Courtney Calo: Major: Nutrition and Food Science: Dietetics Hometown: Merrick, NY GPA: 3.94 Post-Graduation Plans: Dietetic Internship and combined graduate program at LIU Post Favorite Experience at UMD: Being able to meet such a diverse group of people who have influenced my life in a positive way and have helped me assimilate here. Accomplishment She Is Most Proud of at UMD: Becoming a part of Phi Beta Kappa in the Spring of 2012 Other Activities/Interests: I love to run, spend time with family and friends, go to the beach, craft, cook/bake
Aikeen Jones
Major: Animal Science: Animal Care and Management Hometown: Laurel, MD GPA: 2.9 Post-Graduation Plans: I plan to continue my research while working hand in hand with the Smithsonian National Zoo. I also want to attend graduate school for animal reproduction in the spring of 2014 Favorite Experience at UMD: State Fair Birthing Center with Dr. Hartsock!! 11 straight days of working with babies can't compare to anything I've ever experienced here. Accomplishment He is Most Proud of at UMD: Getting accepted to the Society for the Study of Reproduction annual conference in Montreal Canada!! Other Activities/Interests: Farm labor and live music Hats off to the College of AGNR Class of 2013!!!!Tags: StudentsGraduationAGNRSpring 2013 Commencement Approaches
The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) is excited to celebrate the diverse and talented crop of students who make up the Class of 2013! A ceremony will take place at 12:00 p.m. at the Reckord Amory during which the College of AGNR will award:
*230+ bachelor’s degrees
*30+ master’s degrees
*15+ doctoral degrees
*15+ IAA certifications (two-year program)
This spring’s class is one of the largest to graduate from the College of AGNR and encompasses students interested in everything from solving world hunger and securing the global food supply, to preserving endangered species, protecting the Chesapeake Bay and promoting our state’s natural resources. The following four seniors exemplify the impressive pool of graduates coming out of the College this year:
Jason Chun Yu Wong
Major: Environmental Science and Policy: Environmental Economics; Germanic Studies (double degree) Hometown: Hong KongGPA: 4.00
Post-Graduation Plans: Ph.D. Program (Sustainable Development), Columbia University
Favorite Experience at UMD: Serving as a teaching assistant for AREC200; Peer mentoring and working with Tim, Angela, and Beth; Running a Maryland Day booth
Accomplishment He is Most Proud of at UMD: Getting to learn economics, environmental science and German all at once!; (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings Scholar; (DAAD) German Academic Exchange Service Undergraduate Scholar; Undergraduate Research at Dept. of Agricultural and Resource Economics
Other Activities/Interests: Odyssey of the Mind! A creative minds competition for all ages. I translate/interpret for teams from Hong Kong and China and judge spontaneous problems as well. Isabel Enerson
Major: ENST (Ecological Technical Design) Minor: Soil Science Hometown: Columbia,MD GPA: 3.5 Post-Graduation Plans: Over the summer Isabel plans to continue working on the complete mix forage radish co-digestion project with Dr.Lansing's lab before moving to Sweden in August to continue sustainability projects she started while studying abroad in the spring of 2012. Favorite Experience at UMD: Either repotting wetland plants for WaterShed at 1am in the campus greenhouse, or the crazy escapades of the UMD soil judging team. In both cases soils and all that grows, filters, and lives within them enthuse me! Accomplishment She Is Most Proud of at UMD: Designing, building, and educating the public about WaterShed, UMD's winning 2011 DOE Solar Decathlon entry. This 18 month journey was consuming, unforgettable, educational, and empowering. My teammates and mentors left an indelible mark on my perspective on and opinions about life, design and sustainability. Check us out at 2011.solarteam.org! Other Activities/Interests: Connecting urban environments with their ecological contexts (green bulkheads capstone, ESJ environmental management concept design, WaterShed), environmental education (Washington Youth Garden volunteer, SERC, UppsalaAquaponics, UMD OS sustainability advisor), waste as a resource (anaerobic digestion, treatment wetlands, passive heating, living machines) Courtney Calo: Major: Nutrition and Food Science: Dietetics Hometown: Merrick, NY GPA: 3.94 Post-Graduation Plans: Dietetic Internship and combined graduate program at LIU Post Favorite Experience at UMD: Being able to meet such a diverse group of people who have influenced my life in a positive way and have helped me assimilate here. Accomplishment She Is Most Proud of at UMD: Becoming a part of Phi Beta Kappa in the Spring of 2012 Other Activities/Interests: I love to run, spend time with family and friends, go to the beach, craft, cook/bake
Aikeen Jones
Major: Animal Science: Animal Care and Management Hometown: Laurel, MD GPA: 2.9 Post-Graduation Plans: I plan to continue my research while working hand in hand with the Smithsonian National Zoo. I also want to attend graduate school for animal reproduction in the spring of 2014 Favorite Experience at UMD: State Fair Birthing Center with Dr. Hartsock!! 11 straight days of working with babies can't compare to anything I've ever experienced here. Accomplishment He is Most Proud of at UMD: Getting accepted to the Society for the Study of Reproduction annual conference in Montreal Canada!! Other Activities/Interests: Farm labor and live music Hats off to the College of AGNR Class of 2013!!!!Tags: StudentsGraduationAGNRHyman wins ethics grant
For years, Institute of Applied Agriculture Director Glori Hyman has discussed ethics in her communication classes, and now she is taking the discussion campus wide. Hyman was awarded a “Principles of Ethical and Responsible Conduct” Grant to conduct an interactive, campus-wide workshop on ethical communication.
Hyman says her workshop Terps Talk Honestly will use role playing, dialogue, and group interaction to raise awareness of respect through communication. Like so many IAA courses, this workshop will take an applied approach to teaching respect.
“In my oral communication classes, we discuss expectations, responsibilities, and roles of speakers and listeners,” Hyman explains. “The discussion opens our minds to multiple perspectives, but more importantly it sets a tone of respect within classroom environment. Following our ethics discussion, students create a code of ethics, and we abide by that code throughout the semester. I believe a similar approach will work for campus staff to promote respect in the work place.”
Striving to ensure continued excellence and the highest of ethical standards in its policies and practices, the university solicited proposals to integrate principles of ethics into the campus community. Participants were encouraged to educate the community and promote the university’s 10 Principles of Ethical and Responsible Conduct. Hyman’s was one of six proposals selected.
“I hope to help campus personnel understand the role communication plays in creating respect,” says Hyman. “So many communication acts that can contribute to the breakdown of respect in a work environment and most are really unintentional, like failing to listen carefully, withholding information, unknowingly repeating false information, or changing opinions to adapt to an audience. This workshop will help staff to become more mindful of the way they communicate.”
If this initial workshop is successful, Hyman says she hopes to make it an annual event to continue to raise awareness and address new ethical communication issues that arise.
HymanethicsgrantcommunicationiaaAGNR
Hyman wins ethics grant
For years, Institute of Applied Agriculture Director Glori Hyman has discussed ethics in her communication classes, and now she is taking the discussion campus wide. Hyman was awarded a “Principles of Ethical and Responsible Conduct” Grant to conduct an interactive, campus-wide workshop on ethical communication.
Hyman says her workshop Terps Talk Honestly will use role playing, dialogue, and group interaction to raise awareness of respect through communication. Like so many IAA courses, this workshop will take an applied approach to teaching respect.
“In my oral communication classes, we discuss expectations, responsibilities, and roles of speakers and listeners,” Hyman explains. “The discussion opens our minds to multiple perspectives, but more importantly it sets a tone of respect within classroom environment. Following our ethics discussion, students create a code of ethics, and we abide by that code throughout the semester. I believe a similar approach will work for campus staff to promote respect in the work place.”
Striving to ensure continued excellence and the highest of ethical standards in its policies and practices, the university solicited proposals to integrate principles of ethics into the campus community. Participants were encouraged to educate the community and promote the university’s 10 Principles of Ethical and Responsible Conduct. Hyman’s was one of six proposals selected.
“I hope to help campus personnel understand the role communication plays in creating respect,” says Hyman. “So many communication acts that can contribute to the breakdown of respect in a work environment and most are really unintentional, like failing to listen carefully, withholding information, unknowingly repeating false information, or changing opinions to adapt to an audience. This workshop will help staff to become more mindful of the way they communicate.”
If this initial workshop is successful, Hyman says she hopes to make it an annual event to continue to raise awareness and address new ethical communication issues that arise.
HymanethicsgrantcommunicationiaaAGNR
2013 AGNR Convocation and Awards Ceremony
Faculty and staff from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) came together on Wednesday, May 8 for the 2013 Convocation and Awards Ceremony. The theme of this year’s event focused on promoting public health through our food supply. Featured speakers included faculty members from the Department of Nutrition and Food Science, the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, the Department of Animal & Avian Sciences, and University of Maryland Extension.
Following the morning’s presentations, the College took time out to celebrate staff members marking a milestone in years of service, from five years to 40 years.
Additionally, a number of staff and faculty members were presented with 2013 College of AGNR Excellence Awards. The honorees included:
Off-Campus Staff Excellence Award
Pamela Chollet, Administrative Assistant II, Talbot County UME
Since joining University of Maryland Extension’s Talbot County office in September of 2004, Pamela Chollet has consistently gone above and beyond to serve the public and support UME programs throughout the county. As the sole administrative assistant in Talbot County, Pam’s duties vary depending on many factors including the time of year, program needs and requests from clientele calls or walk-ins. Whether maintaining budget and financial records, serving as a first point of contact in the office or preparing and distributing educational and promotional materials, Pam’s colleagues describe her as a consummate team player and outstanding resource for volunteers, community organizations, businesses and residents of Talbot County.
On-Campus Staff Excellence Award
Sandra Nola, Administrative Services Director, ANSC
Sandra Nola joined the Department of Animal and Avian Sciences in 2010 as Director of Administrative Services and has impressed colleagues with her “can-do” attitude and outstanding work ethic ever since. Hired to oversee all of the department’s budgets, employee contracts, personnel functions, financial and administrative reporting, resource allocations, facilities planning, and purchasing, Sandra’s broad background in all areas of administration and relationships with key university stakeholders make her an outstanding resource for faculty, staff and students.
Non Tenure-Track Faculty Excellence Award
Steven Cohan, Professor of Practice, PSLA
Steven Cohan, Ph.D., joined the faculty at the University of Maryland in 2000 as Professor of the Practice in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture and has also served as coordinator of the landscape management program since that time. Although Steven has a 100 percent teaching appointment, he has been instrumental in the development and coordination of UMD’s Green Roof Research Team – a multi-disciplinary team formed in 2007 that has received funding from the Maryland Environmental Services (a division of the Maryland Department of the Environment), UMD’s Maryland Industrial Partnerships, and the USDA Specialty Crops Research Initiative.
Off-Campus Junior Faculty Award:
Jennifer Rhodes, Extension Educator,Queen Anne’s County UME
Jennifer Rhodes, University of Maryland Extension Educator for Queen Anne’s County, is considered by her peers to be a true champion for Maryland agriculture, UME and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She was first hired by UME in 1996 as a nutrient management advisor in Queen Anne’s, which is the state’s highest corn and soybean producing county. In 2007, Jenny had the opportunity to fulfill her long-term dream of becoming an Extension agent for her home county. Described as passionate, devoted and outspoken, Jenny works tirelessly to educate farmers about new technology, research and regulations and inform citizens in her increasingly urbanizing county about the importance of agriculture production for the economy, environment and quality of life.
On-Campus Junior Faculty Award
Paul Leisnham, Assistant Professor, ENST
Paul Leisnham, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Technology (ENST) who is passionate about his research and instruction in EcoHealth. This emerging field examines intrinsic multi-component links among ecological processes, social factors, and human well-being. Paul’s research focuses on the ecology of native and invasive mosquitoes that transmit wildlife, livestock, and human diseases, and that utilize water-filled containers, wetlands, and drainage systems.
Faculty Research Award:
Siba Samal, Professor, VetMed
Siba Samal, Ph.D., began his tenure at the University of Maryland on January 1, 1988 as an assistant professor and has spent his entire career at UMD. During this time, he has established an internationally recognized research program in virology and has earned a reputation as a renowned virologist. Siba is a universally acknowledged expert on three important animal pathogens: Newcastle disease virus (NDV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and Aquareoviruses. His laboratory is known around the world for developing novel vaccines using “reverse genetics” techniques – a cutting edge method of producing infectious viruses from cloned DNA.
The Paul R. Poffenberger Excellence in Teaching & Advising Award:
Chris Walsh, Professor, PSLA
Christopher Walsh, Ph.D. has been teaching and advising students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for nearly 20 years, demonstrating a sincere dedication to instruction and creativity in course development. Over the past five years, he has developed three new courses for the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) including a popular I-Series class focusing on the agriculture of specialty crops throughout history. Christopher holds an 80 percent teaching and 20 percent research appointment for PSLA and is known for artfully integrating laboratory practicum, activities and excursions to enhance the student learning experience.
UME Extension Excellence Award:
Shannon Dill, Extension Educator, Talbot County UME
Shannon Dill has served as an educator for University of Maryland Extension in Talbot County since 2001. During her time with UME, Shannon has demonstrated a creative, dedicated and energetic drive to develop and provide innovative and effective farm business management and profitability programming, fulfilling a critical need of Maryland farmers and communities. In the last 12 years, Shannon has served as lead author or co-author on 26 UME peer-reviewed publications, two journal articles and helped write the curricula for AgSploration, an innovative youth agriculture education program geared toward middle school students. Shannon has been invited to present at numerous national, regional and state conferences and served as PI or co-PI on grants amounting to more than $1 million.
The Dean Gordon Cairns Award for Distinguished Creative Work and Teaching in Agriculture:
Jianghong Meng, Professor, NFSC
Jianghong Meng, Ph.D., is a professor of food safety in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science and Director of the Joint Institute for Food Safety & Applied Nutrition (JIFSAN) at the University of Maryland. Jianghong is an internationally renowned expert in microbial food safety and a dynamic, highly-regarded faculty member. He has conducted innovative and cutting-edge research to address major issues in microbial food safety and other areas that impact public health. He is widely recognized as one of the country’s top researchers in the development of rapid, molecular biology-based diagnostics for the detection of pathogenic microorganisms in food, and the use of these technologies to help discover the source of and risk factors contributing to foodborne disease both in the United States and throughout the world.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
Tags: AGNRAwardsFacultyStaff2013 AGNR Convocation and Awards Ceremony
Faculty and staff from the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) came together on Wednesday, May 8 for the 2013 Convocation and Awards Ceremony. The theme of this year’s event focused on promoting public health through our food supply. Featured speakers included faculty members from the Department of Nutrition and Food Science, the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, the Department of Animal & Avian Sciences, and University of Maryland Extension.
Following the morning’s presentations, the College took time out to celebrate staff members marking a milestone in years of service, from five years to 40 years.
Additionally, a number of staff and faculty members were presented with 2013 College of AGNR Excellence Awards. The honorees included:
Off-Campus Staff Excellence Award
Pamela Chollet, Administrative Assistant II, Talbot County UME
Since joining University of Maryland Extension’s Talbot County office in September of 2004, Pamela Chollet has consistently gone above and beyond to serve the public and support UME programs throughout the county. As the sole administrative assistant in Talbot County, Pam’s duties vary depending on many factors including the time of year, program needs and requests from clientele calls or walk-ins. Whether maintaining budget and financial records, serving as a first point of contact in the office or preparing and distributing educational and promotional materials, Pam’s colleagues describe her as a consummate team player and outstanding resource for volunteers, community organizations, businesses and residents of Talbot County.
On-Campus Staff Excellence Award
Sandra Nola, Administrative Services Director, ANSC
Sandra Nola joined the Department of Animal and Avian Sciences in 2010 as Director of Administrative Services and has impressed colleagues with her “can-do” attitude and outstanding work ethic ever since. Hired to oversee all of the department’s budgets, employee contracts, personnel functions, financial and administrative reporting, resource allocations, facilities planning, and purchasing, Sandra’s broad background in all areas of administration and relationships with key university stakeholders make her an outstanding resource for faculty, staff and students.
Non Tenure-Track Faculty Excellence Award
Steven Cohan, Professor of Practice, PSLA
Steven Cohan, Ph.D., joined the faculty at the University of Maryland in 2000 as Professor of the Practice in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture and has also served as coordinator of the landscape management program since that time. Although Steven has a 100 percent teaching appointment, he has been instrumental in the development and coordination of UMD’s Green Roof Research Team – a multi-disciplinary team formed in 2007 that has received funding from the Maryland Environmental Services (a division of the Maryland Department of the Environment), UMD’s Maryland Industrial Partnerships, and the USDA Specialty Crops Research Initiative.
Off-Campus Junior Faculty Award:
Jennifer Rhodes, Extension Educator,Queen Anne’s County UME
Jennifer Rhodes, University of Maryland Extension Educator for Queen Anne’s County, is considered by her peers to be a true champion for Maryland agriculture, UME and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. She was first hired by UME in 1996 as a nutrient management advisor in Queen Anne’s, which is the state’s highest corn and soybean producing county. In 2007, Jenny had the opportunity to fulfill her long-term dream of becoming an Extension agent for her home county. Described as passionate, devoted and outspoken, Jenny works tirelessly to educate farmers about new technology, research and regulations and inform citizens in her increasingly urbanizing county about the importance of agriculture production for the economy, environment and quality of life.
On-Campus Junior Faculty Award
Paul Leisnham, Assistant Professor, ENST
Paul Leisnham, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Technology (ENST) who is passionate about his research and instruction in EcoHealth. This emerging field examines intrinsic multi-component links among ecological processes, social factors, and human well-being. Paul’s research focuses on the ecology of native and invasive mosquitoes that transmit wildlife, livestock, and human diseases, and that utilize water-filled containers, wetlands, and drainage systems.
Faculty Research Award:
Siba Samal, Professor, VetMed
Siba Samal, Ph.D., began his tenure at the University of Maryland on January 1, 1988 as an assistant professor and has spent his entire career at UMD. During this time, he has established an internationally recognized research program in virology and has earned a reputation as a renowned virologist. Siba is a universally acknowledged expert on three important animal pathogens: Newcastle disease virus (NDV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and Aquareoviruses. His laboratory is known around the world for developing novel vaccines using “reverse genetics” techniques – a cutting edge method of producing infectious viruses from cloned DNA.
The Paul R. Poffenberger Excellence in Teaching & Advising Award:
Chris Walsh, Professor, PSLA
Christopher Walsh, Ph.D. has been teaching and advising students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for nearly 20 years, demonstrating a sincere dedication to instruction and creativity in course development. Over the past five years, he has developed three new courses for the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture (PSLA) including a popular I-Series class focusing on the agriculture of specialty crops throughout history. Christopher holds an 80 percent teaching and 20 percent research appointment for PSLA and is known for artfully integrating laboratory practicum, activities and excursions to enhance the student learning experience.
UME Extension Excellence Award:
Shannon Dill, Extension Educator, Talbot County UME
Shannon Dill has served as an educator for University of Maryland Extension in Talbot County since 2001. During her time with UME, Shannon has demonstrated a creative, dedicated and energetic drive to develop and provide innovative and effective farm business management and profitability programming, fulfilling a critical need of Maryland farmers and communities. In the last 12 years, Shannon has served as lead author or co-author on 26 UME peer-reviewed publications, two journal articles and helped write the curricula for AgSploration, an innovative youth agriculture education program geared toward middle school students. Shannon has been invited to present at numerous national, regional and state conferences and served as PI or co-PI on grants amounting to more than $1 million.
The Dean Gordon Cairns Award for Distinguished Creative Work and Teaching in Agriculture:
Jianghong Meng, Professor, NFSC
Jianghong Meng, Ph.D., is a professor of food safety in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science and Director of the Joint Institute for Food Safety & Applied Nutrition (JIFSAN) at the University of Maryland. Jianghong is an internationally renowned expert in microbial food safety and a dynamic, highly-regarded faculty member. He has conducted innovative and cutting-edge research to address major issues in microbial food safety and other areas that impact public health. He is widely recognized as one of the country’s top researchers in the development of rapid, molecular biology-based diagnostics for the detection of pathogenic microorganisms in food, and the use of these technologies to help discover the source of and risk factors contributing to foodborne disease both in the United States and throughout the world.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
Tags: AGNRAwardsFacultyStaffFulbright-Hayes Fellowship Program Submissions
AREC Alum Wins Prestigious Fulbright Grant
As the son of Russian immigrants, Alex Gittelson ‘09 grew up speaking Russian at home and hearing stories about his parents’ upbringings in St. Petersburg.
“I’ve always had this pull to figure out how I’m going to spend some time in my heritage homeland,” Alex says.
Now that he has been awarded a competitive Fulbright grant for the 2013-2014 academic year, Alex will have a chance to pursue his lifelong goal of helping to make a difference in Russia.
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Maryland, Alex went to work for the US Department of Agriculture as an International Affairs Specialist focusing on policy issues related to energy, climate, safety, and security. His work with the USDA gave him the opportunity to interact with researchers and economists from around the world, including Russia. Those experiences in Russia prompted Alex to apply for a Fulbright grant that would allow him to study alternatives to agricultural burning in the country. This common practice of burning excess crops – typically straw – is believed to boost soil fertility but is also harmful to the environment, particularly in the Arctic.
“The main reasons farmers do this is not because it’s good for the soil but because it’s the cheapest way to get rid of the straw,” says Alex. “I’m interested in looking at what you could do with that straw. Could you covert it into bio energy, for example? Or leave it on the ground to use for future planting?”
Alex put together a proposal to partner with faculty at Saratov State Agrarian University, located about 10 hours southeast of Moscow, to examine viable alternatives to agricultural burning. He found out in early April that his proposal had earned him a grant from the highly competitive Fulbright Program – one of the most prestigious awards programs in the world.
“I ran around the building and did an airplane dance basically. I was definitely very, very excited about it. In the short, medium and long-term, it is the ideal thing that I wanted to be able to do,” says Alex.
Alex will leave for Russia in September and spend roughly nine months on the research project. Afterwards, he plans to pursue a graduate degree in public policy.
Tags: ARECAlumniResearchInternationalAREC Alum Wins Prestigious Fulbright Grant
As the son of Russian immigrants, Alex Gittelson ‘09 grew up speaking Russian at home and hearing stories about his parents’ upbringings in St. Petersburg.
“I’ve always had this pull to figure out how I’m going to spend some time in my heritage homeland,” Alex says.
Now that he has been awarded a competitive Fulbright grant for the 2013-2014 academic year, Alex will have a chance to pursue his lifelong goal of helping to make a difference in Russia.
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Maryland, Alex went to work for the US Department of Agriculture as an International Affairs Specialist focusing on policy issues related to energy, climate, safety, and security. His work with the USDA gave him the opportunity to interact with researchers and economists from around the world, including Russia. Those experiences in Russia prompted Alex to apply for a Fulbright grant that would allow him to study alternatives to agricultural burning in the country. This common practice of burning excess crops – typically straw – is believed to boost soil fertility but is also harmful to the environment, particularly in the Arctic.
“The main reasons farmers do this is not because it’s good for the soil but because it’s the cheapest way to get rid of the straw,” says Alex. “I’m interested in looking at what you could do with that straw. Could you covert it into bio energy, for example? Or leave it on the ground to use for future planting?”
Alex put together a proposal to partner with faculty at Saratov State Agrarian University, located about 10 hours southeast of Moscow, to examine viable alternatives to agricultural burning. He found out in early April that his proposal had earned him a grant from the highly competitive Fulbright Program – one of the most prestigious awards programs in the world.
“I ran around the building and did an airplane dance basically. I was definitely very, very excited about it. In the short, medium and long-term, it is the ideal thing that I wanted to be able to do,” says Alex.
Alex will leave for Russia in September and spend roughly nine months on the research project. Afterwards, he plans to pursue a graduate degree in public policy.
Tags: ARECAlumniResearchInternationalIAA Students visit the historic Mt. Vernon Estate
With its location on the Potomac River, 50 acres of extensive plantings, a greenhouse, and nursery, Mt. Vernon is a horticultural paradise and a dream job for some IAA students. Thanks to the IAA partnership with the DC Branch of the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS), IAA students and faculty enjoyed a tour of Mt. Vernon’s grounds, led by Dean Norton, Director of Horticulture.
IAA’s Sustainable Agriculture Advisor Ellen Polishuk appreciated George Washington’s gardens and his innovative farming practices that included crop rotation and production of a variety of seeds that he introduced into large scale agriculture production. IAA Horticulture Advisor Ken Ingram marveled at the trees that were planted by George Washington himself in the 1700s.
IAA students Kelsie Birney, Collin Plumley, and Brian Knott enjoyed what some people call the world’s greatest view from the back of the mansion overlooking the Potomac River. George Washington may be remembered as a great leader and military strategist, but he always considered himself a farmer and pioneered innovative agricultural methods. He introduced the use of mules to American farmers and he kept meticulous records of his work with plants. The Mt. Vernon’s Ladies Association used these records to restore the estate to its 18th century form, actually using archeologists to find the holes of old fences post when fences are rebuilt today.
Mt. Vernon should be considered as one the nations great outdoor learning environments for agriculturalist and the IAA is pleased to have had such a learning opportunity.
polishukpgmsmt vernonPlumleyBirneyKnottIAA Students visit the historic Mt. Vernon Estate
With its location on the Potomac River, 50 acres of extensive plantings, a greenhouse, and nursery, Mt. Vernon is a horticultural paradise and a dream job for some IAA students. Thanks to the IAA partnership with the DC Branch of the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS), IAA students and faculty enjoyed a tour of Mt. Vernon’s grounds, led by Dean Norton, Director of Horticulture.
IAA’s Sustainable Agriculture Advisor Ellen Polishuk appreciated George Washington’s gardens and his innovative farming practices that included crop rotation and production of a variety of seeds that he introduced into large scale agriculture production. IAA Horticulture Advisor Ken Ingram marveled at the trees that were planted by George Washington himself in the 1700s.
IAA students Kelsie Birney, Collin Plumley, and Brian Knott enjoyed what some people call the world’s greatest view from the back of the mansion overlooking the Potomac River. George Washington may be remembered as a great leader and military strategist, but he always considered himself a farmer and pioneered innovative agricultural methods. He introduced the use of mules to American farmers and he kept meticulous records of his work with plants. The Mt. Vernon’s Ladies Association used these records to restore the estate to its 18th century form, actually using archeologists to find the holes of old fence post when fences are rebuilt today.
Mt. Vernon should be considered as one the nations great outdoor learning environments for agriculturalist and the IAA is pleased to have had such a learning opportunity.
AREC Alum Wins Prestigious Fulbright Grant
As the son of Russian immigrants, Alex Gittelson ‘09 grew up speaking Russian at home and hearing stories about his parents’ upbringings in St. Petersburg.
“I’ve always had this pull to figure out how I’m going to spend some time in my heritage homeland,” Alex says.
Now that he has been awarded a competitive Fulbright grant for the 2013-2014 academic year, Alex will have a chance to pursue his lifelong goal of helping to make a difference in Russia.
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree from the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Maryland, Alex went to work for the US Department of Agriculture as an International Affairs Specialist focusing on policy issues related to energy, climate, safety, and security. His work with the USDA gave him the opportunity to interact with researchers and economists from around the world, including Russia. Those experiences in Russia prompted Alex to apply for a Fulbright grant that would allow him to study alternatives to agricultural burning in the country. This common practice of burning excess crops – typically straw – is believed to boost soil fertility but is also harmful to the environment, particularly in the Arctic.
“The main reasons farmers do this is not because it’s good for the soil but because it’s the cheapest way to get rid of the straw,” says Alex. “I’m interested in looking at what you could do with that straw. Could you covert it into bio energy, for example? Or leave it on the ground to use for future planting?”
Alex put together a proposal to partner with faculty at Saratov State Agrarian University, located about 10 hours southeast of Moscow, to examine viable alternatives to agricultural burning. He found out in early April that his proposal had earned him a grant from the highly competitive Fulbright Program – one of the most prestigious awards programs in the world.
“I ran around the building and did an airplane dance basically. I was definitely very, very excited about it. In the short, medium and long-term, it is the ideal thing that I wanted to be able to do,” says Alex.
Alex will leave for Russia in September and spend roughly nine months on the research project. Afterwards, he plans to pursue a graduate degree in public policy.
And the Winners Are…
More than 1,600 votes were cast to help choose racing names for two thoroughbred foals born on the University of Maryland Campus Farm this spring. And the winning names are:
Diamondback Fire for a colt (by Friesan Fire out of Daylight Lassie) born March 8 (left).
Maryland Miss for a filly (by Cherokee’s Boy out of Amazin) born April 15 (right).
*The winning names are still subject to Jockey Club approval.
The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) invited the entire UMD community to submit suggested racing names for the two foals and received close to 1,000 responses. The entries were narrowed down to five finalists for each foal and put up for an online vote. The following is a breakdown of the results:
Colt (by Friesan Fire out of Daylight Lassie):
Diamondback Fire: 587
Red Terp Rising: 374
Blazin Terp: 307
Terrapin’s Pride: 250
Terptastic: 155
Filly (by Cherokee’s Boy out of Amazin):
Maryland Miss: 820
Terrapin Spirit: 362
Terrapin Girl: 204
Amazin Terp: 167
Terp’s Amazin Girl: 111
The two new members of the Terrapin family are the first foals to be born on the Campus Farm in 30 years. Their dams (mothers) live on a rotational grazing site at one of the university’s larger research farms in nearby Howard County but they spent the final leg of their pregnancies here on campus so students could learn first-hand about equine reproduction and witness live foalings. For more on the program, watch the video below or visit http://www.ansc.umd.edu/equinestudies/
Tags: Equine StudiesHorsesAnimal & Avian SciencesAnd the Winners Are…
More than 1,600 votes were cast to help choose racing names for two thoroughbred foals born on the University of Maryland Campus Farm this spring. And the winning names are:
Diamondback Fire for a colt (by Friesan Fire out of Daylight Lassie) born March 8 (left).
Maryland Miss for a filly (by Cherokee’s Boy out of Amazin) born April 15 (right).
*The winning names are still subject to Jockey Club approval.
The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) invited the entire UMD community to submit suggested racing names for the two foals and received close to 1,000 responses. The entries were narrowed down to five finalists for each foal and put up for an online vote. The following is a breakdown of the results:
Colt (by Friesan Fire out of Daylight Lassie):
Diamondback Fire: 587
Red Terp Rising: 374
Blazin Terp: 307
Terrapin’s Pride: 250
Terptastic: 155
Filly (by Cherokee’s Boy out of Amazin):
Maryland Miss: 820
Terrapin Spirit: 362
Terrapin Girl: 204
Amazin Terp: 167
Terp’s Amazin Girl: 111
The two new members of the Terrapin family are the first foals to be born on the Campus Farm in 30 years. Their dams (mothers) live on a rotational grazing site at one of the university’s larger research farms in nearby Howard County but they spent the final leg of their pregnancies here on campus so students could learn first-hand about equine reproduction and witness live foalings. For more on the program, watch the video below or visit http://www.ansc.umd.edu/equinestudies/
Tags: Equine StudiesHorsesAnimal & Avian SciencesAg Day Avenue celebrates traditions, science and innovation
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