Mike Fidanza, Ph.D., professor of plant and soil sciences at Penn State Berks, recently was named a Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy. No more than 0.3 percent of the society's active and emeritus members may achieve such an honor.
Fidanza teaches undergraduate courses in turfgrass science, soil science, botany and pesticide education for Penn State Berks, as well as a graduate course in turfgrass physiology for Penn State World Campus. He also advises undergraduate students in agricultural science majors.His research involves turfgrass ecology, turfgrass integrated pest management with an emphasis on diseases and weeds, plant health and soil ecology, seed germination biology and ecology, evaluation of mushroom compost for agricultural crops and ornamental horticulture, the biology and management of fairy rings in turfgrass ecosystems, and teaching and learning technology.
At Penn State Berks, he has developed and serves as director of a 30-acre research and education facility, the Center for the Agricultural Sciences and a Sustainable Environment.
In addition, Fidanza has served as president of Northeastern Branch of the American Society of Agronomy, the Crop Science Society of America, and the Soil Science Society of America since 2013.
ASA Fellow is the highest recognition bestowed by the American Society of Agronomy. Members of the society nominate colleagues based on their professional achievements and meritorious service.
Fidanza will be formally recognized at the ASA Awards Ceremony on Oct. 25, in Tampa.