Roots of Research Faculty Honor Program

The Office of the President, Office of the Vice President for Research and Division of Facilities jointly lead the Roots of Research Faculty Honor Program. This initiative is designed to celebrate the exceptional research and scholarly contributions of our faculty, recognizing those who have demonstrated a sustained and impactful commitment to advancing knowledge at K-State.

In honor of their dedication and achievements, a tree will be planted on campus in each honoree's name, symbolizing the deep roots they have cultivated through their work and the legacy they leave for future generations. These trees will serve as living tributes, growing and flourishing alongside the knowledge our faculty continue to cultivate.

2025 awardees

• Marcellus Caldas, geography and geospatial sciences
• Suprem Das, industrial and manufacturing systems engineering
• Melanie Derby, mechanical and nuclear engineering
• Loretta Johnson, biology
• Michael Kanost, biochemistry and molecular biophysics
• Mary Beth Kirkham, agronomy
• T.G. Nagaraja, diagnostic medicine/pathobiology
• Anil Pahwa, electrical and computer engineering
• Caterina Scoglio, electrical and computer engineering
• Michelle Toews, School of Human Sciences
• Harold Trick, plant pathology

Honorary trees will be planted during One K-State Research Week, April 17-24, 2026.

 

Nominations were reviewed and ranked by an internal committee.