CropLife America Recognizes Award Winners at 2021 Annual Meeting
AVENTURA, FLORIDA – The development of innovations and technologies that can further agricultural sustainability, the future political landscape, and the need for uniting the voice of the pesticide industry were key topics at the 2021 CLA and RISE Joint Annual Meeting, held September 12 – 15. The meeting provided an opportunity for CLA and RISE members to review 2021 initiatives and reflect on the opportunities ahead for the industry.
A highlight of the Annual Meeting is the recognition of members who have shown exemplary leadership within the pesticide industry. Whether these members are working on a specific issue or managing the work of an entire committee, CLA is thankful for their time and hard work throughout this past year. This year’s award winners have made important contributions to agriculture, sustainability, and a more efficient industry. This year’s recipients helped develop Operation Pollinators that added new pollinator habitat across the U.S.; worked to harmonize trade regulations within a reasonable global framework; and developed new policy recommendations that could improve the protection of threatened and endangered species.
Members and partners recognized by CLA this year include:
The Pillar Award recognizes an individual who has shown dedicated service to the pesticide industry and CLA by working diligently on current and emerging issues. Pillar Award winners for 2021 are: Kimberly O’Brien (Bayer Crop Science); Caydee Savinelli (Syngenta); and Michelle Sharpe (BASF Corporation).
The Chairman’s Award honors individuals within the CLA staff for their exceptional service to member companies, the industry and the organization. This year’s winner is Susana Zloczower, CLA’s administrative assistant to the legal and regulatory science departments.
The Urbanowski Grassroots Award honors the outstanding grassroots contributions made by an individual or organization at the local, state or federal level. CLA was thrilled to recognize Doug Busselman (Nevada Farm Bureau Federation); Ruthann Anderson (California Association of Pest Control Advisors); and Kevin Grant (The Karol Group).
The State Leadership award honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership in the area of state legislative issues and promote initiatives that preserve, protect, and advance the ability of farmers and other pesticide users to provide safe food, communities, and ecosystems. This year’s recipient is Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles (Kentucky Department of Agriculture).
CLA presented the Rising Star Award to recognize emerging leaders in the agricultural industry whose record reflects exceptional growth in leadership and responsibility. Congratulations to Christi Keating (BASF Corporation) and Tony Burd (Syngenta) on this well-deserved honor!
The Lea S. Hitchner Award honors one individual whose outstanding contributions to the industry and association activities epitomize the essence of the first CLA President, Lea S. Hitchner. This year, the award was presented to Eric Tamichi (Valent).
CLA is also pleased to announce the addition of four new Board member companies: Helm Agro, Lonza, Schrim USA, and Tide International.
“As an organization dependent on the work of our members, we are grateful for the leadership, talent and engagement of these dedicated individuals who work daily on behalf of American agriculture,” said Chris Novak, CLA president and CEO. “It is an honor to recognize the work they do to enhance the safety, reliability, and sustainability of our nation’s food supply.”