(12/19/24) BATON ROUGE, La. — The LSU AgCenter and LSU College of Agriculture recognized outstanding faculty and staff during an award ceremony held Dec. 18 at Nelson Memorial on the LSU campus. Recipients were honored for their contributions to research, extension and teaching.

Esther Boe, the AgCenter Central Region 4-H coordinator, received the Extension Excellence Award. Boe's leadership in developing the Junior Ag Leader Program and her contributions to pollinator education have had a profound impact on youth development in the region. Her innovative programs and dedication to mentoring have inspired many young leaders to pursue careers in agriculture. Her commitment to excellence in extension work has made her a respected figure in the Louisiana 4-H community.

Achyut Adhikari, associate chair and associate professor in the School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, is the recipient of the Floyd S. Edmiston Award. Adhikari's extensive work in food safety education and his leadership in developing training programs for produce safety have been pivotal in enhancing food safety practices among Louisiana's agricultural producers. His efforts have not only improved public health but also supported the economic viability of local farms.

The winner of the Doyle Chambers Research Award is Claudia Husseneder, a distinguished professor in the Department of Entomology, Husseneder's innovative research in termite biology, insect microbiomes and insect population genetics has significantly advanced our understanding of these areas. Her collaborative approach and mentorship have also been instrumental in guiding both students and junior faculty. Husseneder's work on the impact of disturbances on insect populations, including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, has provided valuable insights for ecological restoration and pest management.

Adam Famoso, rice breeder and director of the H. Rouse Caffey Rice Research Station, received the G&H Seed Award. Famoso has used his expertise in molecular genetics and incorporated new technologies to advance the AgCenter’s rice breeding program. He has worked to identify breeding targets and developed strategies to meet market demands.

The Seeds to Success and Louisiana Farm to School Program team, led by Carl Motsenbocker, has been recognized with the Extension Team Award. This program has successfully integrated farm to school activities, promoting local food systems and agricultural education. The team’s initiatives have empowered educators and students to engage in sustainable agriculture. Their efforts have significantly increased food literacy and access to fresh, locally grown food in schools across Louisiana. The team also includes Crystal Besse, Tyne Bankester, Jacey Wesley, Pam Hodson, Cecilia Stevens and Isabella Frank.

Members of the Louisiana Institute for Bioproducts and Bioprocessing team, led by Qinglin Wu and Gillian Eggleston, received the Tipton Team Research Award. The LIBBi team has become a nationally recognized leader in developing novel biofuels and biofuel products from Louisiana agricultural crops and natural resources. The team focuses on liquid transportation fuels and high-value products such as plant-based bioactive compounds, biopolymers, specialty chemicals, cellulose nanomaterials and biocomposites. These efforts help our state's agricultural enterprises to profit from a variety of potential product streams. Other team members are Rich Vlosky, Giovanna Aita, Dorin Bolder, Cristina Sabliov, Todd Monroe, Niranjan Baisakh and Achyut Adhikari.

The Southwest Region Health Rocks! team, comprising Margo Castro, Jennifer Cantrell, Carrie Lane, Brennan Uzee, Keaton Bertrand, Nicole Gerard, Charles Hebert, Claire Zak and Lanette Hebert, has been awarded the Rosalie Bivin 4-H Youth Development Award.

Joseph Michael Christensen, research coordinator for the Aquatic Germplasm and Genetic Resources Center, received the Outstanding Service Award for Associates

Alice Mohman, custodian at the Sugar Research Station, was the recipient of the Ganelle Bullock Outstanding Service Award.

James Wise, assistant professor in the School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, received the Inclusive Excellence Award.

The recipient of the International Programming Award was Niranjan Baisakh, a professor in the School of Plant, Environmental and Soil Sciences.

Sibei Xia received the National Association of Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Teaching Award. Xia is an assistant professor in the Department of Textiles, Apparel Design and Merchandising

Trina Biswas, instructor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, received the Sedberry Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher. The Sedberry Award for Outstanding Graduate Teacher went to Michael Keenan, professor in the School of Nutrition and Food Sciences.

The Louisiana Agriculture Article of the Year went to Casey Stannard for her article in the summer 2024 edition titled, “Gradable Zero-Waste Patternmaking: A Potential Solution to Preconsumer Fabric Waste.”

Denise Holston, associate professor in the School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, was recognized for her service to the Louisiana Agriculture editorial board.

Joshua Allred, assistant director of Student Services in the College of Agriculture, received the Student Success Award.

The LSU AgCenter and College of Agriculture congratulate the award recipients for their exceptional contributions and dedication to advancing agricultural research, education and extension in Louisiana.

Faculty and staff members honored during the LSU AgCenter and LSU College of Agriculture award ceremony held Dec. 18 at Nelson Memorial. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter