AMES, Iowa – Kathleen Delate has been named a 2022 Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy. Delate is a professor and extension organic crops specialist at Iowa State University, a joint position between the horticulture and agronomy departments.
The award will be formally presented at the American Society of Agronomy Awards Ceremony Nov. 8 during the scientific society’s annual meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. The annual awards are presented for outstanding contributions to agronomy through education, national and international service, and research.
As the first tenure-track organic ag faculty at a land-grant university, Delate’s research on organic nutrient and pest management includes the Long-Term Agroecological Research site, one of the longest running comparisons of conventional and organic systems in the U.S. On-farm trials include organic corn breeding and organic no-till soybeans and corn using roller/crimpers.
She is internationally recognized for her extension efforts in organic ag, including farmer participation in research and outreach. Delate helped establish the Organic Management Systems community in the American Society of Agronomy and has served on numerous committees and as a Golden Opportunity mentor, emphasizing an inclusive, welcoming environment for all. Each year in November, she hosts the largest university-sponsored organic conference in the country, this year set for Nov. 20-21 at the Memorial Union in Iowa City.
Fellow is the highest recognition bestowed by the American Society of Agronomy. Members of the Society nominate worthy colleagues based on their professional achievements and meritorious service. Up to 0.3% of the Society’s active and emeritus members may be elected Fellow. The award consists of a certificate, a complimentary ticket to the award ceremony and ASA Fellow pin. In 2022, up to 11 individuals may be elected as Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy.