July 13, 2007
Mellendorf wins first Kapusta assistantship
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Tracy G. Mellendorf of Louisville, a 2007 Southern Illinois University Carbondale graduate, has won the first George Kapusta endowed graduate assistantship, which will help her pay for graduate study in SIUC's Department of Plant, Soil and Agriculture Systems this fall.
Agronomist Bryan G. Young, who replaced Kapusta after the University's longtime weed scientist retired in 1998, announced the award July 12 as part of the College of Agricultural Sciences' annual field day at its Belleville Center. Kapusta joined the University in 1964 as superintendent of that facility and started the first field day in 1966 as a way of introducing farmers to the research that took place there.
"Dr. Kapusta is recognized throughout the world for his findings on weed control programs in all types of tillage systems," said Rebecca Stenhaug, the college associate director for institutional advancement.
"This endowed assistantship serves as a permanent testament to Dr. Kapusta's contribution to agriculture and supports excellence in recruitment and education of outstanding graduates."
Those who wish to contribute to the assistantship may mail donations to the SIU Foundation, 1235 Douglas Drive, Mail code 6805, Carbondale, IL 62901.
Mellendorf is the daughter of Louisville residents Kent R. and Janice E. Mellendorf.