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K-State Today

May 12, 2022

Retirement reception for Joseph Becker on May 31

Submitted by Milissa Alexander

Join us to celebrate Joseph Becker's 42 years of service from 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, May 31, at the Agricultural Research Center in Hays. Refreshments will be served.

After graduating from K-State in 1980 with a bachelor's degree in agronomy, Becker was accepted as a research assistant to the grain sorghum-greenbug resistance program at the Fort Hays Branch of the Kansas Agriculture Experiment Station, now named the K-State Agricultural Research Center, in Hays. He started working at the station on July 21, 1980.

In 1982, Becker transferred to become the groundskeeper for the station. It opened many opportunities for him in personal growth, expression and experience. Over the years, he cooperated with many K-State researchers in performance trials of ornamental grass, turf, flowers, trees and shrubs.

Several responsibilities have been added over the years, including janitorial of the main building in 1985, events and tour coordinator in 1985, official weather observer in 1986, safety coordinator in 1990, with the addition of Colby, Garden City and Tribune Research Centers in 2016 and the Northwest and Southwest Area Extension Offices in 2020. Besides specific assignments, he was involved in many other projects and activities at the center over the years.

“Through my 40 years of employment with the Ag Experiment System and K-State, I have endeavored to conduct quality work professionally and safely in helping fulfill the mission of the Western Kansas Agricultural Research Centers," Becker said. "Much is owed to my staff that has supported and worked with me over the years.”