WSU Animal Sciences chair receives national award

Margaret Benson
Margaret Benson

PULLMAN, Wash.— The American Society of Animal Science recently honored Margaret Benson, chair of the Department of Animal Sciences at Washington State University, with a Fellow Award. The title of ASAS Fellow is presented to scientists who have made significant and longstanding contributions to the animal sciences and livestock industry and maintained ASAS membership for at least 25 years. “This recognition of my professional efforts by a committee of highly respected leaders in our society reminds me that going the extra mile and giving the extra effort have paid off once again,” said Benson, an expert in nutritional management for sheep and beef cattle.

A member of the ASAS since she was in graduate school, Benson has served in several leadership positions within the society, including president (2011-2012), the board of directors, national and sectional program committees, award committees and the editorial board of the Journal of Animal Science.

During her term as president, Benson implemented a list of strategic priorities for the society that grew the membership and initiated several new programs, including ASAS Grand Challenges, a tool to help amplify the scientific voice of animal agriculture in Washington, D.C.

As the chair of WSU’s Department of Animal Sciences, Benson is committed to preparing students for diverse career paths through science-based curriculum enhanced with real-world experiences, as well as promoting fundamental research discoveries and their dissemination and application to state needs.

Contacts:

Margaret Benson, Department of Animal Sciences, 509-335-5523, m_benson@wsu.edu

Kate Wilhite, CAHNRS Communications, 509-335-8164, kate.wilhite@wsu.edu