Patrick Phipps of Suffolk, Va., professor of plant pathology, physiology, and weed science in Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, was elected into the American Phytopathological Society College of Fellows. He is based at the Tidewater Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Suffolk, Va.

Phipps was honored at the American Phytopathological Society annual meeting in Portland, Ore., on Aug. 4.

The rank of Fellow is bestowed on individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the field of plant pathology or to the American Phytopathological Society in the areas of research, teaching, administration, professional or public service, and/or Extension and outreach.

Phipps’ research focuses on peanut, cotton, soybean, and small-grain diseases, and his work has contributed to the health and productivity of peanut crops, while reducing the use pesticides. During his career, Phipps has received numerous awards, including six Bailey Awards from the American Peanut Research and Education Society, the Excellence in Extension Award from the American Phytopathological Society, and the Research and Education Award from the Virginia Soybean Association.

Phipps received his bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State College and his master’s degree from Virginia Tech before earning a Ph.D. from West Virginia University. Since beginning his career at Virginia Tech as an assistant professor in 1978, Phipps has mentored numerous graduate students and collaborated with researchers throughout the United States and abroad. Additionally, Phipps has authored more than 250 peer-reviewed articles and reports and more than 100 Extension publications.

Written by Liz Guinn, communications assistant in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

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