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The Poultry Science Informal Nutrition Symposium is the leading event at the Poultry Science Association (PSA) Annual Meeting, offering a platform for industry-relevant topics to be presented by prominent invited experts from academia and the industry. The current executive committee is made up of none other than Prof Doug Korver, Prof Rosalina Angel, and Prof Todd Applegate, who are all previous winners of the Mentorship Award. The committee has recognised life mentors nominated by members of the PSA since 2002. This year, four individuals were recognised, namely Dr Janet Remus, Dr Nilva Sakomura, and Dr Mamduh Sifri, and Dr Peter Plumstead, innovation director at Chemuniqué.
“The tremendous support Chemuniqué has enjoyed from the industry over the past 25 years has enabled us to successfully collaborate with South African universities in developing our own, internal graduate development programme. Today, I am delighted to celebrate with Dr Plumstead, who has been instrumental in guiding these young scientists through their postgraduate studies and into their unique, purpose-driven careers,” says Terry Wiggill, managing director of Chemuniqué.
A significant award
The award recognises individuals who exemplify outstanding dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders in the poultry industry. These mentors are not only trusted advisers but also selfless supporters who invest significantly in the personal and professional growth of their mentees. Throughout their careers, they have created invaluable opportunities for development, shaping the future of the industry. By offering guidance, support, and encouragement, they help their mentees navigate the challenges and opportunities within the field, extending their commitment beyond the office, laboratory, and classroom. Their willingness to share knowledge and expertise fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, ensuring the success and well-being of those they mentor.
“This award is to honour the teachers, advisers, and colleagues who enrich our poultry knowledge and are recognised for their long-lasting commitment to investing time to create and nurture leaders of tomorrow,” says Prof Todd Applegate, head of the Department of Poultry Science at the University of Georgia in the United States. “Their legacy is seen in the accomplishments and advancements of their mentees, who carry forward the values and lessons imparted to them. We are grateful for their contributions and we are proud to honour them with the Mentorship Award.”
Upon accepting this award, Dr Plumstead had the following to say:
“I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive this award from the Informal Nutrition Symposium at the PSA meeting. Looking at the distinguished list of past recipients, I am humbled to be counted among them. For the past two decades, I have had the privilege of participating in this esteemed symposium, which has provided an invaluable platform for exchanging ideas and advancing research in poultry nutrition.
“Throughout my career, my primary aim has been to facilitate the same opportunities and exposure that were generously afforded to me in my formative years as a young scientist. By leveraging the significant resources available through Chemuniqué, I have strived to provide our graduate students with the same global network of poultry science experts that played a pivotal role in shaping my own career.
“I firmly believe that I stand here today because of the unwavering support and guidance of my own mentors. It is with immense respect and appreciation that I dedicate this award to them. To my mother, who instilled in me the value of a strong work ethic, and to Dr Gerry Smith, Dr John Brake, and Dr Roselina Angel, who have each left an indelible mark on my personal and professional development. It is through the collective wisdom and expertise of these individuals that I have been able to grow and thrive in the field of poultry science. Their commitment to excellence, innovation, and mentorship has served as a guiding light throughout my journey.
“In closing, it is my sincere hope that I can continue to build upon the foundation laid by my mentors and pay it forward to the next generation of poultry scientists. Thank you all for your unwavering support and for the opportunity to be part of this remarkable community.” – Press release, Chemuniqué
