Three PSIS Personnel Receive 2008 NRE Outstanding Achievement Awards

The College of Natural Resources & the Environment (NRE) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst presented its annual Outstanding Achievement Awards to deserving NRE faculty and staff.  Three of this year's six NRE awards were given to members of the Plant, Soil & Insect Sciences (PSIS) Department.

Dr. Stephen Herbert, PSIS Professor, was awarded the 2008 NRE Outstanding Achievement in Research Award.  The NRE Award Committee said of Dr. Herbert:

"There are very few people whose research spans such a broad range of areas.  Steve has so many varied interests that it's hard to keep up with him.  His record in applying for and receiving grant support for his research is impressive." 

Sonia Schloemann, a UMass Extension Educator, was awarded the 2008 NRE Outstanding Achievement in Outreach Award.  The NRE Award Committee said of Ms. Schloemann:

"Sonia's repertoire starts with her research program in small fruit, extends to her two regularly published newsletters, and goes further to include the establishment of a UMass vineyard. This effort to bring research based on unbiased information to such a large number of people and her dedication to outreach are to be congratulated."

Joseph Sincuk, Cold Spring Orchard Manager, was awarded the 2008 NRE Outstanding Support Staff Award.  The NRE Award Committee said of Mr. Sincuk:

"Joe has been the Cold Spring Orchard Research & Education (CSOREC) manager since 1991.  Under Joe's management, the Orchard realized a 20% growth in income.  He is responsible for where the CSOREC mission's rubber hits the road.  Whether you're a kindergartner or a doctoral student, if you've been to CSOREC, you've met Joe."

PSIS is proud of its award-winning faculty and staff for doing their jobs so well and achieving such high recognition.  Congratulations!