PULLMAN, Wash. – Rich Koenig, associate dean for the WSU College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences and director of WSU Extension, has been honored as one of 14 soil scientists in the U.S. to be named as a 2013 Fellow for the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA).
Koenig’s research on soil fertility issues has led to changes in management practices, helped to increase farm profits and contributed to a healthier environment, notes his SSSA nominator. His leadership in teaching and support of undergraduate and graduate research has made a positive impact on students, as well as his service to the greater community through outreach and extension programs. Koenig has been a member of SSSA for nearly 25 years and was also recently named a 2013 Fellow for the American Society of Agronomy.
“I am incredibly honored to be awarded Fellow status in both of these societies,” said Koenig. “They are the leading professional organizations in the fields of soil science and agriculture and the list of Fellows include people I have admired and respected since first entering graduate school in this field. I can only hope to inspire and impact others through this honor.”
Koenig’s proudest professional accomplishments have come through working with graduate students and undergraduate students in research and extension, he said. He added how he enjoys meeting former students when out “in the field” and watching them emerge and develop as leaders in their professions.
As a fellow for the two national agricultural societies, he will serve as a journal editor, review research articles, mentor scientists and students, and continue to serve in a leadership role.
He will accept the 2013 fellowship award at the SSSA Awards Ceremony on Nov. 4 during the society’s annual gathering in Tampa, Fla. Only 0.3 percent of the society’s active and emeritus are selected for the fellowship.
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