Purdue Honors Ag Professors

Gebisa Ejeta and Suzanne Nielsen

Purdue University’s office of International Programs in Agriculture has named several of its faculty members as recipients of a new international achievement award. The university says the Lowell S. Hardin Award for Excellence recognizes significant contributions of College of Agriculture faculty members to international activities.

Purdue says the award honors the legacy of the late professor Lowell Hardin, his contributions to international agriculture, and his years of service in support of international activities.

The faculty members below received the award for the 2019-20 academic year:

• Gebisa Ejeta, distinguished professor of agronomy and 2009 World Food Prize laureate, has spent his career promoting science-based development and revitalization of agricultural research as a path to achieving food security, enhancing economic prosperity and conserving natural resources.
• Thomas Hertel, distinguished professor of agricultural economics, has devoted his career to research, teaching and engagement on issues related to international trade and environmental sustainability.
• Jules Janick, the James Troop Distinguished Professor of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, has benefitted humanity through international advances in horticulture and his contributions to globalizing Purdue’s land-grant mission.
• Suzanne Nielsen, a 150th Anniversary Professor of Food Science, has been a passionate advocate of international research, outreach and education, leading and supporting global activities with impactful effort throughout her career.
• John Sanders, professor of agricultural economics, has made numerous impacts on international agricultural activities and systems – ranging from introducing new sorghum, millet and cotton technologies to training and mentoring numerous African and Latin American students.  

“Professor Hardin passed away in 2015,” said Gerald Shively, associate dean and director of IPIA. “But his legacy of loyal service, generous insight, and shared knowledge to benefit humanity continues to endure across Purdue agriculture. This award both honors that legacy and recognizes the achievements of those who follow in his footsteps.”

The university says the inaugural recipients will be honored at a reception to be held at a later date.