Becky Higgins Named Recipient of Outstanding Employee Award

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Becky Higgins, research technologist in the Department of Plant Pathology, has been named a recipient of IANR’s 2015 Third Quarter Outstanding Employee Award.

Higgins balances her time between two laboratories in the Department of Plant Pathology. She focuses on fungal pathogens in the laboratory of James Steadman, and works with plant-parasitic nematodes in the laboratory of Thomas Powers. She manages this transition daily with no drop-off in productivity.

Higgins manages the nematode website, which is the largest plant parasitic nematode website in existence. The site is a vital feature of diagnostic research in the Department of Plant Pathology. She is proficient at so many forms of electronic design and presentation, students and other faculty frequently seek her input and editorial services.

“She is driven by a strong work ethic and a desire to produce the highest quality product possible,” Higgins’ supporters wrote. “Her high standards serve as an example to all students who seek her assistance.”

Higgins will receive a cash award, a certificate and lapel pin.