-E. Taylor
Gary Powell with CANR Dean Fred Poston
Yesterday the annual MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Faculty & Staff Recognition Reception was held at the Demmer Center. Three people from weed science were honored at the reception.
Donald Penner received recognition for 45 years of service in the College and Bernard Zandstra was recognized for his 35 years of service.
Gary Powell received the CANR Staff Advisory Committee Outstanding Individual Staff Award for 2013. The following was written regarding Gary in the program…
“Gary Powell has been an exemplary weed science research assistant in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences for more than 30 years. Besides helping weed science graduate students with field research projects and running the herbicide evaluation programs in soybean, sugar beet, dry bean, and small grains, recently, Mr. Powell took on additional responsibilities in shepherding the corn herbicide evaluation program. All of these programs help formulate weed management recommendations that Michigan State University’s stakeholders and clientele around the state expect. Mr. Powell truly believes in the land-grant mission of MSU. The work that he does exemplifies the spirit of this mission. He strives to conduct research that will benefit the Michigan farmer and helps in getting this research information out to growers.
Mr. Powell possesses strong leadership skills. Each year, the department conducts more than 40 field weed management experiments. He is the driving force who makes sure the department conducts all aspects of these trials efficiently and with the highest quality. His leadership invigorates and motivates the graduate and undergraduate students in the lab. He has helped more than 45 graduate students be successful in their graduate programs and go on to future careers with industry, the government and universities. In addition, he has taken an important role on the department’s agronomy farm committee. He has been one of the main advocates in purchasing a grain truck and grain cart for the agronomy farm. He provided the benefits of these purchases in saved time and money and also helped in identifying the best equipment to purchase at reasonable prices.
An effective communicator, he spoke to more than 250 growers at two wheat grower meetings. Growers and agribusinesses enjoy listening to his delivery of MSU’s recommendations.
His dedication to his job is unprecedented. He works long hours to make sure the job is done and done well. Gary’s attitude toward his job has helped in making MSU’s weed science program one of the best for more than 30 years.”
Congratulations to all of you!
