Purdue College of Agriculture announces inaugural recipients of new international achievement award

Story by Nyssa Lilovich

May 11, 2020

Purdue University’s office of International Programs in Agriculture (IPIA) has introduced an award named in honor of late Purdue professor Lowell Hardin.

The Lowell S. Hardin Award for Excellence in International Agriculture honors Hardin’s legacy, his contributions to international agriculture, and his many years of service in support of international activities. The award recognizes significant contributions of College of Agriculture faculty members to international activities. Recipients are selected from submitted nominations. The following faculty members have been named the award recipients 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.

Thomas Hertel. (Purdue University photo)

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.

Suzanne Nielsen. (Purdue University photo)

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.

Hardin, professor emeritus of agricultural economics, was a mentor, confidant, counselor and leader to many at Purdue. Born in 1917, Hardin graduated from Purdue in 1939 with a degree in animal science, attended graduate school at Cornell University and returned to Purdue in 1943 as a faculty member in the department of agricultural economics.

“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 inaugural recipients will be honored at a reception held at a later date.

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